Emergency release for the selector lever

Fig. 183 Removing the selector gate cover.

Fig. 184 Releasing the selector lever lock.
Read and follow the introductory information and safety information first⇒
Introduction to the subject If the power supply fails (due to a dead vehicle battery, for example) and the vehicle has to be pushed or towed, the emergency release must be used to move the selector lever to N (Neutral).
The emergency release is located under the selector gate cover on the right side when viewed in driving direction. You will need a tool like a screwdriver to release the selector lever lock.
Preparations
- Set the parking brake. If the parking brake cannot be set firmly, you must find another way to prevent the vehicle from moving.
- Switch off the ignition.
Removing the selector gate cover
- Pull upward on the cover around the selector lever sleeve ⇒ Fig. 183 .
- Slip the cover up and over the selector lever ⇒
.
Emergency release for the selector lever
- Push the release lever ⇒ Fig. 184 in the direction of the arrow and hold it in this position.
- Press the release button ⇒ Fig. 183① in the selector lever handle and shift the selector lever to (Neutral) N.
Never shift the transmission out of Park (P) without first firmly applying the parking brake. Otherwise, the vehicle can start to roll unexpectedly, especially on hills or inclines, and cause an accident and serious injuries.
NoteEven with the selector lever is in N (Neutral), the automatic transmission will be damaged if the vehicle is towed (or you let it coast) for an extended period or at high speed with the engine shut off.
Test yourself
A quick Volkswagen Tiguan quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.