🚨 2016 Audi TTS: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 TTS (FV generation) with S tronic DCT has a center console lever shifter with electronic shift interlock and a side-mounted release button.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman — 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
- Turn the ignition to ON position (press Start button twice without brake pedal) to energize the electrical system.
- Firmly apply the parking brake.
- Locate the shift lock override access - on the FV generation TTS it's in the center console area near the shifter base, look for a small cover panel or slot typically on the right side or front of the shifter surround.
- Use a flat-head screwdriver or trim tool to carefully remove the cover.
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or key into the override slot and push down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the button on the shifter and move the lever to N (neutral).
- If successful, release the override and remove the tool.
- Replace the cover when finished.
Shift-lock override location
Center console near shifter base, exact position varies but look for small cover panel on right side or front of shifter surround
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override still functions mechanically. Follow the same override procedure - the mechanical release does not require battery power. However, the DCT itself may not fully disengage without power; for towing, the front wheels must be raised or vehicle must be on a flatbed. The quattro AWD system makes flatbed towing mandatory.