🚨 2023 Audi RS7: Emergency Neutral
The 2023 RS7 (C8 generation) uses an electronic console-mounted shift lever with electronic shift-by-wire and shift lock.
🧰 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 level ground and the electronic parking brake is engaged.
- If battery power is available, turn the ignition to ON position (do not need to start engine).
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Move the shifter to Neutral position.
- If no power is available or shift lock is stuck, look for the shift lock override access in the center console area near the shifter base.
- You may need to pry up or remove a small trim panel or cover on the left side of the shifter surround to access the override.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the override release mechanism.
- While pressing the override, move the shifter to Neutral.
- With zero electrical power, the electronic parking brake cannot be released electronically - the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with rear wheels off the ground, as the parking brake is integrated into the rear calipers and requires power to disengage.
Shift-lock override location
Near the shifter base in the center console, likely on the left side under a trim cover - exact location requires console trim access
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic parking brake CANNOT be released without power. The shift lock override allows moving the shifter to Neutral, but the vehicle cannot roll freely. Must be loaded onto flatbed with rear wheels lifted, or battery power must be restored (jump start or external power) to release the electronic parking brake through the EPB switch or diagnostic mode.