🚨 2007 Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2007 C55 AMG (W203 generation, final year) uses a traditional console-mounted gear selector lever with electronic shift interlock.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ 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
- Apply the parking brake firmly and ensure the vehicle is on level ground or properly chocked.
- Turn the ignition key to position II (ignition on) if battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small rectangular opening covered by a plastic cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the front of the console.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to carefully pry off the plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert the screwdriver or key fully into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- If successful, remove the key from the override slot and replace the cap.
- If the vehicle must be moved without any power, the override allows manual release but the steering will remain locked—vehicle must be towed with front wheels off the ground or on a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base near the front of the console, under a small rectangular plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery: unlock the driver's door with the mechanical key, do NOT attempt to turn the ignition (steering lock will engage). Use the shift lock override as described to move to Neutral. Steering wheel will remain locked. Vehicle MUST be transported on a flatbed or with front wheels raised—do not attempt to tow with all wheels down as the steering lock prevents wheel movement.