🚨 1991 Audi 90: Emergency Neutral
The 1991 Audi 90 (B3) uses a floor-mounted console shifter with a button on the shift knob for gear selection.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Apply the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position if you have any battery power.
- Press and hold the brake pedal if power is available.
- If the shifter will not release from Park, locate the shift lock override access near the shifter base.
- Look for a small cover or slot on the center console, typically near the right side or forward of the shifter base.
- Remove or open the access cover and insert a small flathead screwdriver or key into the override slot.
- Press down firmly on the override mechanism while pressing the shifter button and moving the lever to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or towed.
Shift-lock override location
Small access cover or slot on the center console near the shifter base, typically on the right side or forward area of the shifter
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the mechanical shift lock override should still work. Insert tool into override slot, press down, and shift to Neutral. No electrical power is required for the mechanical override to function.