🚨 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL450 R231: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 SL450 R231 uses a column-mounted electronic shifter stalk on the right side of the steering column with P-R-N-D positions.
✓ 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 if functional.
- Turn the ignition to position 1 or 2 (ACC or ON) if the 12V battery has any charge remaining.
- Firmly press and hold the brake pedal.
- Move the shifter stalk down past D to release the parking pawl and select N (neutral).
- If the shift interlock is preventing movement, locate the shift lock override—there is a small covered slot near the base of the shifter stalk assembly on the column.
- Remove the small cover cap and insert a small flathead screwdriver or the key blade to depress the manual release.
- While holding the override depressed and pressing the brake, move the stalk to N.
- If towing, ensure the transfer case (if AWD variant) is also in neutral per the owner's manual; consult flatbed towing if you cannot confirm drivetrain status.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the base of the column shifter stalk assembly; remove cap to access manual release button.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the electronic shifter stalk will not function and the parking pawl remains engaged. You must jump-start the 12V battery to at least position 1 ignition or use an external battery booster pack to power the vehicle systems momentarily. Without any power, the transmission cannot be shifted electronically, and manual override access is extremely limited—flatbed towing in Park is required.