Kia Sportage: Shift lock system

For your safety, the automatic transaxle has a shift lock system which prevents shifting the transaxle from P (Park) into R (Reverse) unless the brake pedal is depressed.

To shift the transaxle from P (Park) into R (Reverse):

1.Depress and hold the brake pedal.
2.Start the engine or turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
3.Depress the lock release button and move the shift lever.

If the brake pedal is repeatedly depressed and released with the shift lever in the P (Park) position, a chattering noise near the shift lever may be heard. It is a normal condition.

WARNING - Shifting from park

Always fully depress the brake pedal before and while shifting out of the P (Park) position into another position to avoid inadvertent motion of the vehicle which could injure persons in or around the vehicle.

Shift-lock override

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

1.Carefully remove the cap covering the shift-lock access hole (1).
2.Insert a screwdriver into the access hole and press down on the screwdriver.
3.Depress the lock release button (2) and move the shift lever.
4.Have your vehicle inspected by an authorized Kia dealer immediately.

Transaxle ranges

The indicator in the instrument cluster displays the shift lever position when the ignition switch is in the ON position. P (Park) Always come to a complete stop before shifting into P (Park). Thi...

Ignition key interlock system

The ignition key cannot be removed unless the shift lever is in the P (Park) position. Even if the ignition switch is in the LOCK position, the key also cannot be removed. If your vehicle is equi...