These instructions apply to the Hyundai i20 Mk3 (BC3) 2020-Present.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
If the automatic (IVT) gearbox on your Hyundai i20 Mk3 (BC3, 2020–present) won’t come out of P (Park) even with your foot on the brake, there is a manual shift-lock override by the selector. It frees the lever so the car can be rolled or towed when a flat 12 V battery, a blown brake-light fuse or a shift-lock fault has trapped it in Park. Manual and iMT cars don’t have this — it only applies to the automatic.
Before You Start
- Apply the parking brake or chock the wheels first — releasing Park removes the transmission’s hold on the car.
- Only do this on level ground, and keep your foot on the brake throughout.
How to Release the Selector
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- Turn the ignition to LOCK / OFF and set the parking brake.
- Press the unlock button on the key or door to power the shift-lock circuit.
- Prise off the small trim cap beside the gear selector and press and hold the shift-lock release button down.
- With the release held, move the selector out of P into N so the car can roll.
A selector that sticks in Park usually points to a deeper cause — a flat battery, a failed brake-light switch or a faulty shift-lock solenoid — so have it checked once the car is moved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my i20 come out of Park?
The selector only unlocks when the car senses the brake pedal pressed and the ignition on. A flat 12 V battery, a blown brake-light fuse or a failed brake-light switch cuts that signal, so the shift-lock stays engaged and the lever won’t move until you use the manual override.
Where is the shift-lock release on the i20 Mk3?
It is a small button under a removable trim cap right next to the gear selector on the automatic (IVT). Lift the cap out and press the button down while moving the lever.
Is this on manual i20s too?
No. A manual or iMT i20 has no Park position and no shift lock, so there is nothing to override — this only applies to the automatic (IVT) gearbox.
If a warning light came on with the fault, look up the code on autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Hyundai. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.