🚨 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2000 R129 SL55 AMG uses a traditional floor-mounted automatic transmission shifter with mechanical shift lock and a push-button release on the shifter handle.
✓ 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
- Turn the ignition key to position 2 (ON) if battery has any charge.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Press the button on the front of the shifter handle and move the shifter to N (neutral).
- If the shift lock will not release due to a failed brake light switch or no power, locate the shift lock override access—typically a small cover or slot near the base of the shifter assembly on the right side or front edge.
- Remove the cover (it may be a snap-off cap or require prying with a small flathead screwdriver).
- Insert a key, screwdriver, or the provided override tool into the release mechanism and press or push forward while moving the shifter to N.
- On some R129 models, you may need to access the override through the center console trim by removing a small cover panel adjacent to the shifter.
Shift-lock override location
Near the shifter base on the right side or front, behind a small plastic cover. Exact location may vary; check the front-right area of the shifter surround first.
With zero electrical power
The R129 shift lock is largely mechanical with an electric solenoid. With zero power, the manual override should work effectively. Insert the override tool and apply steady pressure while moving the shifter. If the shifter remains completely locked, verify the override is fully engaged and try rocking the shifter slightly while pressing the override.