🚨 1993 Audi S4: Emergency Neutral
The 1993 S4 uses a center console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with a mechanical shift lock interlock.
🧰 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 wheels are chocked.
- Turn the ignition key to the ON or ACC position to provide some power to the shifter mechanism.
- Locate the shift lock override: look for a small cover or access slot near the base of the shifter, typically on the driver's side of the shifter housing.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the cover if present.
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down or to the side (depending on mechanism design) while pulling the shifter lever out of Park.
- Move the shifter to Neutral and confirm the vehicle can roll.
Shift-lock override location
Near the base of the shifter assembly on the driver's side, typically under a small removable cover or access panel
With zero electrical power
If the battery is completely dead and the ignition cannot be turned on, the shift lock override should still function mechanically. However, some residual power may be needed for solenoid release; if the override does not work, jump-start the vehicle or use a portable jump pack to provide minimal power to the ignition circuit.