Use the S tronic Emergency Park Release

Last updated: June 6, 2026

If your S tronic (dual-clutch) Audi A4 (B9/8W, 2015–present) won’t come out of P — typically with a flat battery or a shift-interlock fault — there’s a built-in emergency release by the selector so you can move the car. It’s a cabin-only override and uses the small tool supplied in the car’s boot.

Before You Start

Apply the parking brake or chock the wheels first. Releasing the lock lets the car roll, so secure it before you touch anything.

How to Release the Selector from P

1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Take the small release tool from the boot tool kit (the same kit as the tow eye).
3. Remove the cup-holder lining next to the selector to reveal the release.
4. Fit the tool, turn it 90° clockwise and press until it engages.
5. Move the gear lever out of ‘P’, then refit the lining.

Then What?

This only gets you mobile — for example to roll off a driveway or onto a recovery truck. If the lever wouldn’t release because the battery is flat, sort the battery; if it happens with a healthy battery, have the shift interlock checked.

Frequently Asked Questions

My Audi A4 S tronic is stuck in Park — how do I move it?

Set the parking brake, lift out the cup-holder lining, fit the boot tool, turn it 90° and press, then move the lever out of P.

Is this safe to do myself?

Yes — it’s a cabin override with no electrical risk. Secure the car first, as it can roll once released.

Why did the lever lock in P?

Usually a flat 12 V battery (no power to the interlock) or an interlock fault.

What tool do I need?

The small release tool in the car’s onboard tool kit (boot) — no special equipment.

If it locked because of a dead battery, see our A4 battery guide. For a stored fault code, look it up on autodtcs.com.