Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Unlocking the selector lever lock manually

Fig. 214 Removing the cover of the gearshift gate

Fig. 215 Unlocking the selector lever lock manually (Variant A) and (Variant B)

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings

If the power fails in the vehicle (for example if the battery is discharged) and the vehicle has to be pushed or towed, the manual release mechanism must be used to put the selector lever in the N position.

The manual release mechanism is located under the cover of the gearshift gate on the right-hand side, as seen from the direction of travel.

Preparation

• Switch on the electronic parking brake. If the electronic parking brake cannot be applied firmly the vehicle will have to be prevented from rolling off using other means.

• Switch off the ignition.

Removing the cover of the gearshift gate

• Pull the cover upwards in the area around the selector lever gaiter connected to power surge carefully .

• Pull the cover up and over the selector lever .

Unlocking the selector lever lock manually Variant A

• Using the flat blade of the screwdriver from the vehicle toolkit push the release lever in the direction of the arrow A and keep it in this position.

• Press the lock button on the selector lever and put the selector lever into position N.

• After manual unlocking, carefully press the cover onto the centre console while ensuring that the electrical wires are positioned correctly.

Unlocking the selector lever lock manually Variant B

• Push the release lever B in the direction of the arrow and hold it in this position.

• Press the lock button on the selector lever and put the selector lever into position N.

• After manual unlocking, carefully press the cover onto the centre console while ensuring that the electrical wires are positioned correctly.

WARNING

Never move the selector lever out of the position P if the electronic parking brake is not switched on. Otherwise the vehicle could move unexpectedly if it is stopped on an incline, which could lead to accidents and serious injuries.

NOTICE

The automatic gearbox will become damaged if the vehicle is allowed to roll for a long period of time or at a high speed (for example while being towed) with the selector lever in position N and the engine switched off.

Questions & answers

Unlocking the selector lever lock manually — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

How do I manually release the Golf Mk7 DSG selector from P?

Remove the cover around the gear gate, locate the manual release (Variant A: pull a tab; Variant B: insert a tool), and move the selector to N. This is needed when the battery is flat and the car must be towed.

When would I need to manually unlock the Golf Mk7 selector lever?

If the vehicle battery is completely discharged and the selector is electronically locked in P, preventing the car from being pushed or towed.

Are there different variants of the Golf Mk7 selector release?

Yes. The manual shows Variant A and Variant B, which differ in mechanism. Check your car's gearshift gate to identify which variant you have.