🚨 2017 Audi S4: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 S4 (B9 generation, first model year) uses a console-mounted electronic automatic shifter with a linear gate and electronic shift lock.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ 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 set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (push start button without brake pedal, or use mechanical key in door to unlock and access power) to provide power to the shift lock system.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Press the shifter release button on the side of the shifter knob and move the selector to N (Neutral).
- If the shift lock will not release with ignition ON and brake applied, locate the shift lock override—it is a small covered slot on the console to the left or forward of the shifter base.
- Remove the cover cap by gently prying with a small flathead screwdriver.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter to N.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on console near the shifter base, typically to the left or forward side—exact position may vary slightly by trim
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery (no 12V power), use the manual shift lock override: remove the cover cap near the shifter base, insert a screwdriver into the override slot, press down firmly, and move the shifter to N. The mechanical override does not require electrical power. Note that with a dead battery you may need to use the mechanical key blade (inside the key fob) to unlock the driver's door to access the cabin.