🚨 2016 Audi allroad: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 Audi Allroad uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (without starting the engine) if you have any battery power.
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- Locate the small rectangular shift lock override cover on the left side of the shifter base, near the 'P' position.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the emergency key blade to carefully pry off the override cover.
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the shifter to Neutral.
- If moving the vehicle, keep the override depressed and shift through Reverse and Drive positions to reach Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, remove the screwdriver and replace the cover.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover on the left side of the shifter base, adjacent to the P position gate
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the electronic shifter will not release. You must jump start the 12V battery to at least accessory power (ignition ON) to activate the shift lock solenoid, then use the override procedure. If jump starting is impossible, the vehicle must be flatbed towed in Park with rear wheels off the ground or on dollies.