🚨 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL450 X164: Emergency Neutral
The X164 GL-Class uses a floor-mounted console automatic transmission 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
- Turn the ignition to position 1 or 2 if any battery power is available.
- Locate the shift lock override access point: a small rectangular or square cover on the console near the shifter base, typically on the right side.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully remove the override cover cap.
- Insert a screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the revealed slot and press down firmly on the mechanical override release.
- While holding the override depressed, move the shift lever rearward from Park through Reverse and Drive to Neutral.
- If steering column remains locked with no power, you must jump-start or connect auxiliary power to the 12V battery before the vehicle can be moved safely.
Shift-lock override location
Small cover cap on the right side of the shifter base console, reveals mechanical override slot when removed
With zero electrical power
The shift lock override works mechanically without electrical power, allowing shifter movement without brake pedal input. However, with zero power the steering column will be locked. You must provide 12V power (jump-start or battery charger) to unlock the steering before attempting to push or roll the vehicle. The battery is located under the driver's seat - accessed by folding seat forward and removing the access panel.