🚨 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 C218: Emergency Neutral
The 2015 CLS400 (C218 generation) uses a column-mounted electronic gear selector stalk on the right side of the steering column.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 if functional.
- Turn the ignition to position 2 (ON) by turning the key twice without starting the engine, or press START/STOP twice without pressing the brake pedal.
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- Push the gear selector stalk upward to position N (one click up from D).
- If the shift interlock prevents movement and the brake light switch has failed, you must use the shift lock override.
- Locate the shift lock override access: On C218 models, look for a small rectangular plastic cover on the lower dashboard trim below and to the left of the steering column, near the hood release.
- Pry off the cover with a flathead screwdriver or trim tool.
- Insert the key or screwdriver into the override slot and press/hold while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal and moving the stalk to N.
- If the battery is completely dead, see 'No Power' notes below.
Shift-lock override location
Lower dashboard trim below and to the left of the steering column, near the hood release lever—look for a small rectangular plastic access cover.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic column shifter on the C218 CLS will not function. You must jump-start the 12V battery (located in the engine compartment on the right side, or in the trunk on some configurations) to provide minimal power. Once power is restored, turn ignition to ON and shift to N using the override procedure if needed. If jump-starting is impossible, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with dollies under the rear wheels (RWD/AWD) to prevent drivetrain damage—do NOT flat-tow this vehicle.