🚨 2018 Audi TT RS: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 TT RS uses a traditional automatic-style console shifter with a standard PRNDSR gate and 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the wheels are chocked.
- Turn the ignition to ON position (or press START without brake pedal twice to reach ignition ON).
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small rectangular slot covered by a removable cap, positioned directly forward of the shifter base on the center console.
- Use a flat screwdriver or key to pry off the small cap covering the override slot.
- Insert a small flat screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the brake-light switch is failed, you may need to keep the override pressed while shifting without brake pedal pressure.
- Replace the override cap after shifting.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with removable cap, located directly forward of the shifter base on the center console.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery (no ignition power), the shift lock override alone may not release the shifter on this electronic system. You will need to jump-start the 12V battery or connect an external power source to at least achieve ignition-ON state before the override mechanism will function. If jump-starting is impossible, consult Audi roadside assistance as forced mechanical release may damage the shift interlock mechanism.