🚨 2020 Audi S5: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 S5 uses a conventional center console lever shifter with electronic shift lock in the tiptronic automatic transmission.
✓ 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 level surface and apply the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to ON position if battery has any charge (press start button without brake pedal twice)
- Locate the small rectangular shift lock override cover on the left side of the shifter base near the console
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the emergency key blade to carefully pry off the shift lock override cover
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if possible) and move the shifter to neutral
- If brake pedal has no effect due to failed switch, keep pressure on the override and pull the shifter rearward to neutral
- Release the override tool and replace the cover
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover on the left side of the shifter base where the lever meets the center console
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override still functions mechanically. You will not be able to turn on ignition, but the override slot allows physical release of the shifter mechanism. Apply firm pressure on the override while moving the shifter. The steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be towed on a flatbed or with front wheels raised.