🚨 2000 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2000 ML55 AMG (W163) uses a traditional floor-mounted console lever with a mechanical shift-lock interlock tied to the brake pedal and ignition.
✓ 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
- Insert the key and turn the ignition to position 1 or 2 (ACC or ON)
- Locate the shift-lock override release: it is a small rectangular slot or button with a removable trim cover on the right side of the shifter base near the shift pattern indicator
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to remove the trim cover
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override depressed, move the shifter from Park to Neutral without pressing the brake pedal
- If you have no electrical power at all, see noPowerNotes below
- Once in Neutral, release the override and replace the trim cover
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the shifter base, near the shift pattern indicator gate, under a small removable trim cover
With zero electrical power
The W163 shift-lock is primarily mechanical and does not absolutely require electrical power to release with the override. However, with a completely dead battery, you will not be able to turn the ignition key to any position (the steering lock solenoid will not release). You must jump-start the vehicle to at least position 1, or use the emergency mechanical key release for the steering lock (located under the steering column cover—this is complex and typically requires removing trim). Once ignition is in position 1, the shift-lock override will work. If jump-start is impossible and steering lock cannot be released, flatbed tow with all four wheels off the ground is mandatory.