🚨 2020 Audi S8: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 S8 (D5 generation) uses a modern console-mounted electronic shifter with electronic shift-by-wire technology and 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 if possible (12V power must be present for the electronic shifter to function).
- Locate the shift lock override—look for a small cover or access panel near the base of the shifter, typically on the driver's side or front of the shifter assembly.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully remove the override cover.
- Insert the tool or press the override mechanism inside the access hole while attempting to move the shifter out of Park.
- If successful, move the shifter to Neutral for towing.
Shift-lock override location
Access cover located near the base of the shifter assembly; exact location varies but typically on the driver's side or front edge of the shifter housing
With zero electrical power
The D5 S8 uses electronic shift-by-wire, meaning without 12V power, the transmission remains electronically locked in Park. The manual override alone will NOT work without power. You must jump-start the 12V battery or connect a portable jump pack to restore power to the vehicle's electrical system before the shifter can be moved. With power restored, use the override procedure above. Without power, the vehicle cannot be placed in neutral and must be loaded onto a flatbed with wheels off the ground or dollies under the drive wheels.