🚨 2010 Audi A6: Emergency Neutral
The 2010 A6 (C6 generation) uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shift lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 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 set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (or ACC if battery has minimal charge).
- Locate the shift lock override access—it's a small rectangular cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side of the console.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or key to pry off the override cap.
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shift lever toward you and moving it to Neutral.
- If successful, you can now move the vehicle or prepare it for towing.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the left side of the shifter base (driver's side of the console); press down in the slot while shifting.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override should still function mechanically. You may need to use a physical key to unlock the steering column. If the shifter remains locked, you'll need to jump-start the 12V battery minimally to power the shifter solenoid, or flatbed tow with wheels off the ground.