🚨 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK350 R171: Emergency Neutral
The R171 SLK uses a traditional floor-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift interlock located on the center console.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the right side of the shifter base, covered by a small rectangular rubber cap
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to carefully pry off the rubber cap
- Insert the key or a small flathead screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to neutral
- If no power is available, continue holding the override down and firmly pull the shifter toward neutral without pressing the brake
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the shifter base near the bottom, covered by a small rectangular rubber cap approximately 15mm x 8mm
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the override slot still functions mechanically. Insert key or screwdriver into the override slot, press down firmly, and shift to neutral without brake pressure. The steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with wheels free to roll straight.