These instructions apply to the Kia Ceed Mk1 (ED) 2007-2012.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
If the automatic on your Kia cee’d Mk1 (ED, 2007–2012) won’t come out of P (Park) — typically with a flat 12 V battery or a brake-light fault — there is a manual shift-lock release hidden under a small cover just above the P. You press it with the ignition key to free the lever so the car can be rolled or towed. Manual cee’ds don’t have this.
Before You Start
- Apply the parking brake or chock the wheels first — releasing Park lets the car roll.
- Do this on level ground.
Where the Release Is
It is under the small plastic cover directly above the P on the selector surround.
How to Release the Selector
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- Prise off the small cover above P to expose the shift-lock slot.
- Insert the ignition key into the opening and press it down, holding it in.
- With the key held down, move the selector out of P into N so the car can roll.
- Remove the key and refit the cover.
A selector that sticks in Park points to a cause — usually a flat battery or a failed brake-light switch — so have it checked once the car is moved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my cee’d come out of Park?
The shift lock only frees when the car senses the brake pedal pressed with power on. A flat 12 V battery or a brake-light switch/fuse fault cuts that signal, so the lever stays locked until you use the manual release above P.
Is this on the manual cee’d?
No — a manual cee’d has no Park position and no shift lock, so there is nothing to override. This applies only to the automatic.
If a warning light is on, look the code up on autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Kia. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.