🚨 2021 Audi A5: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 A5 features a console-mounted electronic shifter with compact lever and electronic shift lock mechanism.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 a level surface and apply the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to the ON position if any battery power is available
- Locate the shift lock override access—a small covered slot on the right side of the shifter base
- Use a small flat-blade screwdriver to carefully remove the override cover cap
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver, key, or trim tool into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override mechanism while pressing the brake pedal (if power available)
- Move the shifter rearward to the Neutral position
- If no power, maintain firm downward pressure on the override and manually shift to Neutral with steady force
Shift-lock override location
Small covered access slot on the right side of the shifter base assembly, near the boot
With zero electrical power
The shift lock override is mechanical and functions without electrical power. Insert a tool into the override slot, press down firmly to disengage the locking mechanism, and manually move the shifter to Neutral. If the transmission parking pawl is under load, gently rock the vehicle to relieve pressure before shifting.