A method of controlling a mechanical drive train (2, 4, 6, 8) of a motor vehicle having an automatic or automated transmission (6) and a stabilization system (16) that acts on the wheels (14) of the vehicle. The stabilization system including an electronic vehicle control device (18), which shifts the transmission (6) depending on the standard drive states detected by sensors. The stabilization system (16) is controlled by alternative control program, if a non-standard drive state is detected which would prevent intervention of the stabilization system, such that a drive train configuration is established that would permit the intervention