🚨 2016 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 C43 AMG does not exist (C43 debuted as 2017 model year); this is likely a C450 AMG Sport or regular C-Class with the W205 generation console-mounted electronic gear selector lever.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and parking brake is engaged
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the center console—it is typically a small covered slot near the base of the gear selector on the right side
- Remove the small plastic cover cap by prying gently with a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or the emergency release tool (if provided in the vehicle toolkit) into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while simultaneously moving the gear selector from Park to Neutral
- Keep your foot on the brake pedal during this operation if any electrical power is available
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded onto a flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the right side base of the console gear selector lever; exact position varies but typically adjacent to the selector housing
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the electronic shift lock may not release even with the override—you may need to jump-start the 12V battery enough to power the transmission control module, or have the vehicle loaded onto a flatbed in Park. The steering wheel will also be locked without power, making towing difficult.