🚨 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK280 R171: Emergency Neutral
The R171 SLK features a console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift interlock; the 7-speed automatic (7G-TRONIC) was standard on the SLK280.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly applied and the vehicle is on level ground or properly supported.
- Turn the ignition key to position 1 (ACC) or position 2 (ON) if battery power is available.
- Locate the shift-lock override access—on the R171, look for a small removable cover or slot near the shifter base on the center console, often just forward or to the right of the shifter lever near the P gate.
- Remove the cover cap (it may be a small rectangular or oval plug) by gently prying with a small flathead screwdriver.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the exposed override slot and press down firmly to release the shift lock.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if battery power is available) and move the shifter out of P into N.
- If you have no battery power, see 'noPowerNotes' below.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered override slot near the shifter base on the center console, typically forward or to the right of the shifter lever near the P position; exact location may require close inspection of the console trim.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the shift interlock remains engaged and the override typically requires at least ignition position 1 (ACC) power. You will need to provide external 12V power to the vehicle—use the jump-start terminals under the hood or auxiliary terminals in the fusebox—to turn the ignition to position 1, then use the shift-lock override. If no power can be restored, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed using wheel dollies or a tilt-bed to avoid drivetrain damage.