🚨 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC W164: Emergency Neutral
The W164 ML-Class uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift interlock located on the center console between the front seats.
🧰 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 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 small rectangular shift lock override cover on the right side of the shifter base, adjacent to the shift lever itself
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to carefully pry off the override cover cap
- Insert the key blade or screwdriver into the exposed override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter toward you out of Park
- Move the shifter to Neutral position while maintaining downward pressure on the override
- If the vehicle must be moved any distance, keep the ignition in position 2 to allow steering wheel lock to remain disengaged
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover on the right side of the shifter base, adjacent to the shift lever
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. However, the steering wheel may lock when the key is removed. Keep the key in position 1 or 2 while moving the vehicle to prevent steering lock engagement. The override mechanism is purely mechanical and does not require electrical power to release the shifter.