Shifter Assembly removal/replacement

Hi all, new here. I have a Audi s6 with a bad shifter assembly. The car still goes into gear and is drivable but it seems like the selector does not get “locked” into place. I can easily move the selector to N from D without having to push the button.

That brings me to my question, is it possible to reach the shifter connector (the red cable connecting the shifter to the transmission) without having to remove the engine? If not possible, can I possibly just replace the shifter itself? I have a spare assembly that I’m ready to throw in.

Thanks