🚨 2019 Kia Soul: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 Kia Soul uses a traditional console-mounted shifter lever with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake pedal interlock system.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available
- Locate the shift lock release access cover—a small rectangular cap on the left side of the shifter base (driver's side when seated)
- Use a flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry off the shift lock release cover
- Insert a flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the exposed shift lock release slot and press down firmly
- While holding the release down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the vehicle has no battery power, you may need to use a jump pack or jumper cables to provide temporary 12V power to unlock the shifter—the mechanical override may not function without ANY power to the shift mechanism
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular access cover on the left side of the shifter base, directly adjacent to the shifter lever
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic shifter lock may remain engaged even when using the mechanical override. Connect a jump pack or jumper cables to provide temporary 12V power, turn the ignition to ACC, then use the override procedure. If no power source is available, the vehicle may need to be winched onto a flatbed with wheels on dollies.