Kia Optima: Shift Lock System

For your safety, the Automatic Transaxle has a shift lock system which prevents shifting the transaxle out of P (Park) unless the brake pedal is depressed.

To shift the transaxle out of P (Park):

1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.

2. Start the engine or turn the ignition to the ON position.

3. Depress the lock release button and move the shift lever.

When the ignition switch is in the ACC or LOCK position, the transaxle cannot be shifted from P (Park).

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. This is a normal condition.

Also, the ignition key cannot be removed unless the shift lever is in the P (Park) position. If the ignition switch is in any other position, the key cannot be removed.