🚨 2012 Volkswagen Routan: Emergency Neutral
The 2012 Routan uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with a shift-lock override button integrated into the shifter assembly.
✓ 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
- Set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position if possible (battery permitting).
- Locate the shift lock override button—it's a small rectangular button on the upper right side of the shifter base, near where the shifter meets the console.
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool into the shift lock override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override button down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If no brake pressure or power, continue holding the override down and physically move the shifter to Neutral.
- Release the override button once the shifter is in Neutral.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular button on the upper right side of the shifter base, adjacent to the shifter lever at the console mounting point
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, turn the ignition key as far as it will go (may not reach full ON position). Use the shift lock override button—no electrical power is required for the mechanical override to function. You may need to apply more force to move the shifter without powered assistance.