🚨 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 C257: Emergency Neutral
The C257 CLS uses a console-mounted electronic shifter lever (similar to W213 E-Class) with fully electronic gear selection.
🧰 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
- Apply parking brake firmly and ensure vehicle is on level ground
- Attempt to turn ignition to ON position if any battery power remains
- Locate the shift lock override - look for a small round or rectangular cap/cover on the console near the shifter base, typically forward or to the right of the shifter
- Use a trim tool or small flat-blade screwdriver to remove the override cover
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly while attempting to move the shifter
- If the shifter moves, select Neutral position
Shift-lock override location
Small cover near the shifter base on the center console - exact location varies but typically forward or right side of shifter mounting area
With zero electrical power
The C257 shifter is fully electronic and requires 12V power to function. With a completely dead battery, you MUST provide jump power to the vehicle to energize the transmission control module and shifter. Connect jumper cables or a jump pack, turn ignition ON, and the shifter should become operational. If jump starting is not possible, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with wheels free or dollies - do NOT attempt to flat-tow. As a last resort, the transmission can be manually shifted to neutral via an access point on the transmission housing under the vehicle, but this requires lift access and should be performed by a qualified technician.