🚨 2012 Audi S3: Emergency Neutral
The 2012 Audi S3 (8P generation) uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic 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 a flat surface and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position if battery power is available (do not start engine).
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small covered slot near the base of the shifter on the left side (driver's side) of the shifter assembly.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the small plastic cover over the override slot.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power available) and moving the shifter to Neutral.
- If successful, the shifter will release from Park and move to Neutral.
- If loading onto a flatbed, you may need to keep the override depressed while moving the shifter.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the left side (driver's side) of the shifter base, requires prying off a plastic cover
With zero electrical power
With no battery power, the shift lock override should still function mechanically. You will not be able to turn the ignition to ON, but the override slot bypass allows physical release of the shifter mechanism. Press and hold the override while moving the shifter to Neutral. The steering will remain locked, so the vehicle must be towed with front wheels off the ground or on a flatbed.