Got in my 1999 A6 Avant this morning (keep in mind was 10 degrees outside) to go to work, started the car, let it run a few minutes, applied brake and shifter wouldn't budge... let it warm up a little more, but still wouldn't budge.. Never had this happen before. I applied brake and tried one more time applying more pressure harder on the shifter and it moved roughly into reverse, but car didn't engage into gear (info center on gauge cluster still says apply brake, etc. etc.). I pulled down into drive, but nothing either. I feel like I may have forced it too hard and broke a linkage or something mechanically underneath. Although, I'm not familiar enough with the transmission to even know if it has a linkage or what? Tried all gears, even manual shift (triptronic) side.. Nothing.. Car runs awesome and no mechanical issues..
Now no matter what gear the shifter position is in, it's still in park.

It's a 1999 A6 Avant with triptronic.

Any feedback, leads, or ideas how to fix is appreciated!

 

Oops! Broke it! Open up the console and see if the cable has seperated from the shifter. They sell a repair kit so this must be a common problem.

Bob

 

Most likely the cable problem that Bob mentions BUt also Check the brake light switch - If it is bad the trans lock out will not disengage.

 

Hey NH USA. Thanks for the reply. How do I check the brake light switch..?

 

step on brake peddle -- if the light goes on it is OK! Sometimes you can hear the solenoid in the console activate.

 

okay, how do I fix the brake light switch? is it a selinoid that isn't disengaging? Is it located under the shifter?

 

Do a search on this forum -- The switch is an easy fix -- But you probably screwed up the cable like bob said

 

I did the same thing here recently to my 2001 A6.... I have my console opened up and I cannot see anywhere there is a cable connection... it looks like to me that all must be under the car... It has been too cold to get out there under the car.. and where the car is on a slight incline in the driveway anyway so I really not sure I want to jack it up and crawl underneath it. Has anyone done this repair yet... I know mits not the switch on mine as I can see the light and hear the click.

 

You can locate the break light switch by following upwards the break pedal. You definitely need to remove the kick panel. It is a pretty awkward spot and definitely need a good back, good neck tendons, a pair of small hands, and most definitely a thick cushion to lay over the door sill, otherwise you may need to go to the chiropractor the very next day...
Oh, did I mention it helps to be medium built?

 

hi having same problem with my 2001 audi tt can't find reverse at all & first is hard to find but all other gears are no problem at all if anyone has any idea what it could be & if its a big job to sort out that would be a huge help cheers