🚨 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL: Emergency Neutral
The 2012 GL-Class uses a traditional floor-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift interlock on the center console.
✓ 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 level ground and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition key to position 1 (ACC) or position 2 (ON) if battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small covered rectangular slot on the left side of the shifter base, near the lower front corner of the shift gate.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small plastic cover over the override slot.
- While firmly depressing the brake pedal (if power available), insert the key or a small flathead screwdriver into the override slot and press down.
- While holding the override down, move the shift lever from Park to Neutral.
- If successful, the vehicle can now roll freely - have an assistant ready or use wheel chocks.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered rectangular slot on the left side of the shifter base, near the lower front corner of the shift gate
With zero electrical power
With zero power, you cannot turn the ignition to any position. The shift lock override may still function mechanically - try inserting the key blade or screwdriver into the override slot and applying firm downward pressure while attempting to move the shifter. If this fails with no power, the steering column will also be locked, making flatbed transport the only option. DO NOT attempt to tow with wheels on the ground if the steering is locked.