🚨 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 SL (R231 generation) uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift lock.
✓ 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 into the ignition and turn it to position 1 (accessory) or position 2 (ignition on) if possible—this provides power to release the shift lock electronically.
- Press and hold the brake pedal, then move the shifter to N (neutral) normally if power is available.
- If the shifter will not move due to failed shift interlock or no power, locate the shift lock override slot on the center console—it is typically a small covered slot near the base of the shifter, often on the left side or front face of the shifter surround.
- Remove the small plastic cap covering the override slot (use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool if needed).
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter to N.
- Once in neutral, you can move the vehicle or load it onto a flatbed.
- If loading onto a flatbed, ensure the steering wheel is unlocked (key in ignition at position 1 minimum) so the front wheels can pivot during loading.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the base of the shifter on the center console, typically on the left side or front face of the shifter surround; remove plastic cap to access.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery: the key may not turn in the ignition, and the steering lock may engage. You will need to jump-start the battery minimally (even a small portable jumper to get accessory power) to unlock the steering and enable the shift lock override to function. Alternatively, mechanically release the steering lock per emergency procedures (rarely needed for flatbed loading). The shift lock override itself is mechanical and does not require power, but steering lock must be addressed.