🚨 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS: Emergency Neutral
The 2011 CLS (C218, new generation) 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 set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to position 1 or 2 (accessory or on) if 12V power is available
- Locate the shift-lock override: look for a small circular or rectangular cover on the lower right side of the steering column shroud, near where the shifter stalk emerges
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to carefully pry off the cover
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press firmly
- While holding the override, press the brake pedal (if power available)
- Push the column stalk upward once to select Neutral (stalk returns to center)
- If no power: with override pressed and ignition key inserted and turned to position 1 if possible, push stalk upward - you may need to apply more force than normal
- Release the override; the transmission should now be in Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the lower right side of the steering column shroud, near the base of the column shifter stalk
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the column stalk shifter will not provide electronic feedback and the instrument cluster will not display gear position. The mechanical override still functions but you must have the key in the ignition (position 1 minimum if any power exists). Without any power, the shifter electronics may prevent movement even with override - in this case, jump-start the 12V battery to at least accessory power before attempting. The transmission parking pawl may require vehicle rocking to release tension.