🚨 2025 Audi A5: Emergency Neutral
The all-new 2025 A5 (redesigned on the PPC platform) features a console-mounted electronic shifter, likely a compact lever or toggle design with electronic shift lock.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly.
- Attempt to turn the ignition to ON or press the START button twice without the brake pedal to energize the electrical system.
- If you have battery power but the shifter won't release due to a failed brake switch, look for a shift lock override—typically a small capped slot or access point near the base of the shifter on the console.
- Remove any trim cap and insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot.
- Press or pull the override mechanism while attempting to move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the vehicle has electronic parking brake integration, you may need to ensure the EPB is applied before the shifter releases.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can roll; maintain appropriate restraint.
Shift-lock override location
Look for a small capped access point near the shifter base on the center console—exact location not confirmed for this all-new generation.
With zero electrical power
With zero battery power, the electronic shifter and parking brake may be locked. You must restore some 12V power via jump-start or external battery pack to energize the shift lock system and allow override use. If power cannot be restored, flatbed transport with dollies under the drive wheels is required.