🚨 2016 Audi S3: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 Audi S3 (8V generation) uses a console-mounted automatic shifter lever with electronic shift lock for the S tronic dual-clutch transmission.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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.
- If battery power is available, turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start engine).
- Locate the shift lock override: there is a small rectangular slot with a cover cap located on the left side of the shifter base, toward the front.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry off the cover cap.
- Insert a small screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down and pressing the brake pedal (if power available), move the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- The shifter should release and move freely to Neutral while the override is depressed.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular covered slot on the left side of the shifter base, toward the front of the shifter assembly
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the mechanical shift lock override will still function. You cannot turn the ignition to ON position, but the override slot provides mechanical release. Press and hold the override tool in the slot while moving the shifter to Neutral. Note that steering will remain locked and wheels may be difficult to turn; flatbed towing or towing with front wheels raised is required.