🚨 2013 Audi A8: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 A8 (D4 generation) features a console-mounted electronic shifter lever with electronic shift-by-wire and integrated shift lock.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 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
- Position the vehicle on level ground and engage the parking brake.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position.
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- Press the shifter release button and move the lever to Neutral.
- If the shift lock prevents movement, you'll need to access the mechanical override.
- Locate and remove the small rectangular trim cover on the right side of the shifter base - use a plastic trim tool or flathead screwdriver wrapped in tape to prevent scratching.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or metal key into the override slot beneath the cover.
- Push the override tool down firmly to mechanically disengage the shift lock pawl.
- While keeping the override tool pressed, press the shifter button and move the lever rearward to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, remove the override tool and replace the trim cover.
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the shifter base on the center console, beneath a small rectangular plastic trim cover.
With zero electrical power
With zero battery power, only the mechanical override will work. Insert a tool into the override slot and push down to release the shift lock pawl mechanically. Shift to Neutral while holding the override depressed. Critical warning: Without electrical power, the electronic steering lock will remain engaged, making the vehicle impossible to steer. The vehicle MUST be loaded onto a flatbed truck using wheel dollies if necessary. Do not attempt to tow with wheels down or push/roll the vehicle. Even in Neutral, the steering lock makes the vehicle unsafe to move under its own wheels.