🚨 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2006 SL65 AMG (R230 generation) uses a traditional center console floor-mounted shifter with electronic shift interlock.
✓ 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.
- Turn the ignition key to position 1 (ACC) or 2 (ON) if you have any battery power available.
- Locate the shift lock override release slot—it is a small rectangular opening with a cover cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side of the shifter assembly.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small plastic cover cap.
- Press the brake pedal (if possible) and insert the screwdriver or key blade into the override slot, pushing firmly downward.
- While holding the override down, move the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- Remove the tool and replace the cover cap if you wish.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base at the console, under a small rectangular plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, you may not be able to turn the ignition key to any position. In this case, you will need to provide external 12V power (jump-start or battery charger) to at least power the shift interlock solenoid. Once minimal power is available, follow the override procedure. If absolutely no power can be provided, the shift lock may require manual disassembly of the shifter assembly—this is not a roadside procedure and the vehicle should be flatbedded.