🚨 2007 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2007 S65 AMG (W221 chassis) uses a traditional column-mounted automatic transmission shift lever.
🧰 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 a flat surface and apply the parking brake if functional.
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the center console, directly forward of the shifter base.
- Remove the small rectangular plastic cover by prying gently with a flathead screwdriver or using your fingernail.
- Insert the mechanical key blade (from inside the key fob) or a small screwdriver into the exposed slot.
- Press down firmly on the override mechanism while simultaneously moving the column shifter to the neutral position.
- The transmission should release and allow you to shift to neutral.
- The vehicle can now be rolled or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
On the center console directly forward of the column shifter base, under a small removable plastic cover
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the shift lock override is fully mechanical and should work without any electrical power. However, the steering lock may engage without power - you may need to jump the battery (located in trunk, right side) to release the steering column lock before the vehicle can be steered or rolled safely.