🚨 2009 Audi S6: Emergency Neutral
The 2009 S6 (C6 generation) has a center console-mounted automatic shifter with Tiptronic and electronic shift interlock.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Attempt to turn the ignition to ON or ACC position if battery has any remaining charge.
- Locate the shift lock release—there is a small covered slot on the console trim to the left of the shifter lever base.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry off the small rectangular cover cap.
- Insert a screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the release slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the release down, press the brake pedal and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If no electrical power is available, the mechanical override alone will release the lock; maintain pressure on the override and shift to Neutral without brake input.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular covered slot on the left side of the shifter base console trim
With zero electrical power
The shift lock override is mechanical and works with zero battery power. You will not be able to unlock the steering column or turn the ignition without power, so the vehicle must be towed on a flatbed with the front wheels off the ground or use a wheel dolly. Apply firm pressure to the override slot and shift to Neutral.