🚨 2017 Audi Q5: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Q5 (8R generation) uses a traditional console-mounted electronic shifter lever with a button on the side for Park release.
✓ 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 apply the parking brake.
- If the battery has some charge, turn the ignition to ON or ACC position (push START button without pressing brake pedal).
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Press the release button on the side of the shifter and move the lever to N (Neutral).
- If the shift lock will not release due to failed brake light switch or electrical issue, use the manual shift lock override.
- Locate the small rectangular plastic cover on the left side of the shifter base (toward the driver's side).
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pop off the cover.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the lever to Neutral.
- If successful, the vehicle can now be moved or loaded.
Shift-lock override location
A small rectangular plastic cover on the left side of the shifter base (driver's side), concealing a manual shift lock override slot.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the electronic shifter may not illuminate or respond. First attempt to jump-start the vehicle to provide minimal power for the shifter electronics. If jump-starting is not possible, use the shift lock override procedure: remove the small cover on the left side of the shifter base and use a screwdriver in the override slot while manipulating the shifter. Some power may still be needed for the transmission parking pawl solenoid. If override fails with zero power, the vehicle must be winched onto a flatbed.