🚨 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2025 CLA35 AMG uses a column-mounted electronic shifter stalk on the right side of the steering column.
✓ 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 level surface and the parking brake is engaged.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (press start button without brake pedal, or use key if available).
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Move the shifter stalk down once to engage Drive, then continue holding the brake while attempting to move the vehicle or use the stalk to select Neutral by pushing up briefly.
- If the brake-light switch has failed and the shift interlock will not release, locate the shift lock override access panel.
- The override slot is located on the right side of the shifter stalk housing on the steering column - look for a small rectangular cover that can be pried off with a flat-blade screwdriver.
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver or the key into the override slot and press down while attempting to move the shifter stalk to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the shifter stalk housing on the steering column, under a small rectangular cover panel
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic shifter will not function at all. The steering lock will also remain engaged. You will need to jump-start the vehicle with jumper cables or a portable jump pack to get minimum electrical power to release the shifter and steering lock. Even momentary 12V power should allow shifting to Neutral. If jump-starting is not possible, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with dollies under the front wheels.