🚨 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 CLA45 AMG uses a center console-mounted electronic selector lever (7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission) that operates by pushing forward/backward for gear selection.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 apply the parking brake fully.
- Turn the ignition to position 1 (ACC) or 2 (ON) if battery has any charge remaining.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the left side of the shifter base, covered by a small rectangular cap.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the override cap.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter to Neutral.
- If successful, the shifter will release and move to N position.
- Keep brake applied and release parking brake only when ready to move the vehicle.
- If the vehicle must be moved with no power, use the override slot—the transmission will mechanically disengage the park pawl when override is pressed.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base at console level, covered by a small rectangular plastic cap approximately 15mm x 8mm.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the override slot still functions mechanically. Remove the cap, insert key or screwdriver into the slot, press down firmly, and shift to N. The electronic selector has a mechanical bypass that releases the park pawl when override is activated. You may need to rock the vehicle slightly if park pawl is under load.