🚨 2021 Audi e-tron GT: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 e-tron GT uses a small electronic console-mounted shifter lever with P-R-N-D positions.
✓ 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.
- If 12V power is available, turn on the ignition by pressing the start button without pressing the brake pedal.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Move the shifter to the N (Neutral) position by pushing the shifter forward once from Park.
- If the shifter will not move due to a failed brake-light switch, locate the shift-lock override slot on the left side of the shifter assembly, covered by a small rectangular cap.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to remove the override cap.
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down while simultaneously moving the shifter to N.
- If completely dead with no 12V power, see 'No Power Notes' below.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or winched onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the left side of the shifter console housing; override slot is directly beneath it.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the electronic shifter will not function and the steering column lock may engage. Jump-start the 12V battery (located in the front trunk) using another vehicle or portable jump starter to restore minimal power. Once powered, follow the normal shift-to-neutral procedure. If jump-starting is not possible, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with the front wheels off the ground using wheel dollies or a winch.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
CRITICAL: The e-tron GT is a pure EV with a single-speed transmission. Never tow with any wheels on the ground—this WILL cause severe drivetrain damage. Always use a flatbed truck or trailer. Ensure the parking brake is released before loading. If the 12V battery is dead and the parking brake is stuck engaged, you must jump-start the 12V system to release it electronically.