These instructions apply to the Suzuki Swift Mk4 (A2L) 2017-Present. For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
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If the gear lever on your automatic Suzuki Swift Mk4 (A2L, 2017–present) (CVT) won’t come out of P — typically with a flat battery or a shift-interlock fault — there’s a built-in emergency shift-lock release so you can move the car. It’s a cabin-only override; no high-voltage or under-car work is involved.
Before You Start
Apply the parking brake or chock the wheels first. Releasing the lock lets the car roll, so secure it before you touch anything.
How to Release the Lever from P
- Apply the parking brake and turn the engine off.
- Switch the ignition on without pressing the brake pedal:
- Push-button start: press the start/stop button once (don’t touch the brake).
- Key start: turn the key to position ‘1’.
- Prise off the small cover by the gear lever with a flat screwdriver.
- Press and hold the shift-lock release in the opening, hold the lever’s normal shift button, and move the lever out of P.
- Remove the screwdriver and refit the cover.
On right-hand-drive cars the release button sits slightly differently but works the same way — hold it while moving the lever.
Then What?
This only gets you mobile (for example to roll off a driveway or onto a recovery truck). If the lever wouldn’t release because the battery is flat, sort the battery; if it happens with a healthy battery, have the shift interlock checked.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Swift automatic is stuck in Park — how do I move it?
Apply the parking brake, switch the ignition on without the brake pedal, pop the cover by the lever and hold the shift-lock release while moving the lever out of P.
Is this safe to do myself?
Yes — it’s a cabin override with no electrical risk. Just secure the car first, as it can roll once released.
Why did the lever lock in P?
Usually a flat 12 V battery (no power to the interlock) or an interlock fault.
Do I need a tool?
Only a small flat screwdriver to lift the cover.
If the lever locked because of a dead battery, see our Swift battery guide. For a stored fault code, look it up on autodtcs.com.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general guidance only. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions when working on your vehicle. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or any damage resulting from the use of this information.
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