🚨 2019 Audi R8: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 Audi R8 (second generation, Type 4S) uses a console-mounted lever selector for the 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission.
🧰 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 vehicle is on a level surface and parking brake is engaged (or wheels are chocked if power is completely dead).
- If the battery has ANY residual charge, turn the ignition to ON (push start button without brake pedal twice) to energize the shift interlock system.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Press the small shift lock override button located on the right side of the shifter base (there is a small cover cap that may need to be pried off with a trim tool or flathead screwdriver).
- While holding the override button, move the shifter to N (neutral).
- If the battery is completely dead and ignition cannot be turned on, you must access the shift lock override: remove the small rectangular cover on the right side of the shifter console, insert a flathead screwdriver or trim tool into the override slot, press down firmly while attempting to move shifter to N.
- Once in neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the shifter base, under a small rectangular cover cap accessible with a flathead screwdriver or trim tool
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the shift lock override slot (right side of shifter base under cover) must be used with a screwdriver to mechanically release the shifter. The ignition cannot be cycled on. You may need to remove the cover cap forcefully.