🚨 2023 Audi SQ7: Emergency Neutral
The 2023 SQ7 uses a traditional center console automatic transmission lever with electronic shift-by-wire and integrated 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 level surface and set the parking brake if functional.
- Turn the ignition to ON/accessory position if battery has any charge (press START button without brake pedal).
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening with a cover cap on the left side of the shifter base in the center console.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or key to pry off the small cover cap.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if you have power) and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If successful, you can release the override tool and the vehicle will remain in Neutral.
- If the vehicle must be moved without any electrical power, see the no-power notes below.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with cover cap on the left side of the shifter base in the center console
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the electronic shift-by-wire system will not function and the shift lock override will not release the transmission. You must either: (1) jump-start or trickle charge the 12V battery to get minimal power for shifter operation, or (2) access the transmission from underneath - locate the manual transmission shift lever on the driver's side of the transmission housing and carefully move it to neutral position. This requires lifting the vehicle. For flatbed recovery, the vehicle can be loaded in Park with all four wheels on the deck.