I have a 2003 Octavia TDI and it's pretty much behaved very well during my ownership. However, about 6 months ago I got into the car, started it, and then struggled to get the automatic gearbox out of park. It didn't happen again for a while and then started happening very sporadically from then on. Recently it's started happening more frequently and it's quite frustrating.

 

When I put my foot on the brake pedal the light near the selector lever will go off and I will be able to change gear. However sometimes it will literally do nothing at all and I'll often have to wait a few minutes and then try again. I'm aware it could be the brake lever switch or a fuse and will look at both and see if either is at fault. I've heard there's an emergency release for the shifter under the plastic cover but have been unable to find a diagram for it anywhere online and I've looked everywhere. Does anyone know where the release is or has a diagram showing it as I would like to have that option available for emergencies.

 

Thank you in advance.

 

Nah

This sounds very like an electrical issue with a lock switch. Unfortunately you're going to need a specialist I think.