🚨 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK500 C209: Emergency Neutral
The 2006 CLK500 C209 uses a traditional console-mounted PRND gate shifter 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and apply the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to position 1 or 2 (key must be in the ignition for electrical power if battery is not completely dead)
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening with a plastic cover directly forward of the shifter base on the console, between the shifter and the center console trim
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the key to pry up and remove the plastic cover cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key fully into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if you have any electrical power) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If moving to Neutral for towing, do NOT shift to Neutral unless the vehicle can be towed with all wheels down - consult the owner's manual for towing restrictions
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cover located directly forward of the shifter base on the center console, between the shifter lever and the forward console trim piece
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power (completely dead battery), the shift lock override will still function mechanically. You do not need battery power to use the override. However, you will need to manually turn the steering wheel while moving the vehicle as power steering will not function. The ignition key must be able to turn to at least position 1 to unlock the steering column.