🚨 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 Tiguan uses the same electronic console-mounted shifter with shift-by-wire system and electronic parking brake as the 2018 model.
✓ 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 electronic parking brake is engaged (if functional)
- If battery has minimal charge, turn ignition to ON position
- Locate the shift lock override - a small rectangular cover at the left front base of the shifter, near where it meets the console
- Use the metal key blade or a small flathead screwdriver to carefully pry off the override cover
- Insert the tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override mechanism down, press the brake pedal and attempt to shift to Neutral
- If successful, the shifter will move to N position
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular plastic cap at the front left base of the shifter assembly, adjacent to the Park position side
With zero electrical power
The 2019 Tiguan uses shift-by-wire technology. With completely dead battery (no 12V power), the mechanical shift lock override may not successfully engage the transmission into neutral because the transmission control module requires power to command the actual gear change. You may be able to release the shifter from Park position, but the transmission itself may remain in Park. In this case, the vehicle MUST be transported on a flatbed with all wheels off the ground. Do NOT attempt to tow with any wheels on the ground.