Shift Lock System

For your safety, the automatic transmission is equipped with a shift lock system that prevents shifting from P (Park) to R (Reverse) unless the brake pedal is depressed.

To shift from P (Park) to R (Reverse):

1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.

2. Start the engine or turn the ignition key to the ON position.

3. Move the shift lever.

If the brake pedal is depressed and released repeatedly with the shift lever in P (Park), a knocking noise and vibration may be heard near the shift lever. This is normal. Repeated operation may cause overheating. Stop operating the pedal until it cools down.

WARNING. Shifting from Park

Always fully depress the brake pedal before and while shifting the shift lever out of P (Park) to prevent unintended vehicle movement, which may injure people inside or near the vehicle.

Releasing the Shift Lock

If the shift lever cannot be moved from P (Park) into R (Reverse) with the brake pedal depressed, continue depressing the brake pedal, then do the following:

1. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK/OFF position.

2. Apply the parking brake.

3. Carefully remove the cover (1) that covers the shift-lock release access hole.

4. Insert a tool (such as a flat-blade screwdriver) into the access hole and press down on the tool.

5. Move the shift lever.

6. Remove the tool from the shift-lock release access hole, then install the cover.

7. Have the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.

Ignition Key Lock System

The ignition key cannot be removed unless the shift lever is in the P (Park) position. Even if the ignition key is in the LOCK position, the key cannot be removed.

If your vehicle is equipped with an engine Start/Stop button, this button will not switch to the OFF position unless the shift lever is in the P (Park) position.