🚨 2020 Audi S7: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 S7 uses a console-mounted electronic shifter lever with shift-by-wire technology 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 apply the parking brake firmly
- Attempt to activate the ignition system - press the start button twice without pressing the brake pedal to reach ON/accessory mode if any battery power remains
- Locate the shift lock override access - look for a small cover or slot near the base of the shifter on the left side or directly in front of the shifter
- Remove the cover cap using a flathead screwdriver or similar tool
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override mechanism down, attempt to move the shifter to Neutral
- If resistance is felt, maintain pressure on the override while gently rocking the shifter forward and backward to disengage the lock
- Once in Neutral, the shifter position should hold even if the override tool is removed
Shift-lock override location
Near the base of the shifter console, typically on the left side or front - exact location may require removing a small trim cap in the shifter surround area
With zero electrical power
With completely dead electrical power, the shift-by-wire system may prevent any shifter movement even with the mechanical override. In this case, the transmission must be placed in neutral mechanically from underneath the vehicle (requires accessing the transmission shift linkage or valve body - professional service recommended) or the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with all wheels off the ground. Do not attempt to tow with drive wheels on the ground.