🚨 2008-2015 Audi R8: Emergency Neutral
The 2008-2015 R8 with automatic transmission (R tronic automated manual) uses a center console-mounted sequential shift lever.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground.
- Turn the ignition to ON position (or ACC if battery has minimal charge).
- Firmly depress and hold the brake pedal.
- Locate the shift lock override access on the center console—look for a small rectangular cap or slot near the shift lever base, typically on the right side or forward of the lever.
- Remove the override cap using a flat-blade screwdriver or the metal key blade.
- Insert the tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shift lever from P to N.
- Once in N, release the brake pedal and ensure the vehicle remains stable.
- Replace the override cap.
Shift-lock override location
Small capped slot near the shift lever base on the center console, typically on the right side or forward of the lever
With zero electrical power
The R tronic transmission requires at least minimal electrical power (ignition ACC or ON) to release the shift lock, even when using the manual override. With completely dead battery, you must jump start or use a jump box to provide 12V power before the override will function. If no power source is available, flatbed tow only.