🚨 2009 Audi A4: Emergency Neutral
The 2009 A4 (B8 generation) uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with a button on the left side of the handle and a shift-lock mechanism.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on level ground and the parking brake is firmly engaged.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not need to start the engine) to provide power to the shift-lock solenoid.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Press the button on the left side of the shifter handle and move the lever to Neutral.
- If the shifter will not move due to a failed brake-light switch, locate the shift-lock override.
- The override slot is typically found as a small rectangular opening near the base of the shifter console, often covered by a small removable cap on the right side of the shifter base.
- Remove the cap using a flat tool or your fingers.
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or key into the slot and press down while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot near the shifter base on the right side, typically covered by a removable plastic cap.
With zero electrical power
With no 12V power, the ignition cannot be turned on and the shift-lock will remain engaged. You must use the mechanical shift-lock override: remove the cap near the shifter base, insert a screwdriver into the override slot, press down, and shift to Neutral. The steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with the front wheels on a dolly or the entire car lifted.