These instructions apply to the Ford Kuga Mk2 (C520) 2013-2019.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
If a Ford Kuga Mk2 (2013–2019) with the PowerShift automatic won’t come out of Park — usually a flat battery or a selector fault — you can release the gearbox manually so the car can be moved or towed. This is an emergency step only.
How to release a Kuga PowerShift gearbox from Park
- Apply the handbrake and chock the wheels — the car can roll freely once it is in neutral.
- Turn the ignition off.
- Using a trim tool, carefully prise off the gear-lever surround/cover; the manual release is on the left-hand side of the mechanism.
- With the cover off, move the release lever and shift the selector into Neutral.
- Refit the gear-lever cover.
- The car is now in neutral and can be rolled or towed. Have the cause checked before driving normally again.
Only do this with the handbrake applied and the wheels chocked — once in neutral the car has no Park lock to hold it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Kuga stuck in Park?
A flat 12-volt battery is the most common cause, because the electronic shift-lock can’t release. A selector fault or a faulty brake switch can also do it.
Is this the same as the brake shift-lock override?
Related — on a dead battery the electronic shift-lock stays engaged, so the manual release under the lever surround is used instead.
Can I just drive off after doing this?
No. Free the gearbox only to move or tow the car, and get the underlying fault diagnosed first.
If the transmission has logged a fault, you can decode the code on autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Ford. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.