🚨 2015 Audi S8: Emergency Neutral
The 2015 S8 (D4 generation) uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 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 vehicle is on a flat surface with the parking brake engaged and wheels chocked.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not need to start the engine, but 12V power must be present for electronic release).
- Locate the shift lock override access—there is a small rectangular cover/cap on the left side of the shifter base near the P position.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry off the override cover.
- Press down firmly on the override button/tab inside the access hole while simultaneously moving the shifter out of Park.
- If successful, shift through Reverse-Neutral-Drive as needed; place in Neutral for towing.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover on the left side of the shifter base, adjacent to the Park position
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the electronic shift lock cannot be overridden using the manual release alone. You will need to jump-start the 12V battery or connect a portable jump pack to provide power to the ignition system, then use the override procedure. Without any power, the shifter remains locked in Park.