🚨 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 C257: Emergency Neutral
The 2026 CLS450 (C257) uses a column-mounted electronic shifter stalk on the right side of the steering column.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman — 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 apply the parking brake if functional.
- Locate the shift-lock override access point: on the center console, look for a small rectangular cap or cover near the base of the cup holder area, typically on the right side of the console trim.
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the small override cap.
- Insert a key, small screwdriver, or the emergency key blade into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, move the column shifter stalk to Neutral (one position down from Park).
- The shifter stalk will return to center automatically but the transmission will remain in Neutral.
- Verify Neutral is engaged by checking the instrument cluster display (if any power is available) or by attempting to push the vehicle slightly.
- Release the parking brake and the vehicle can now be moved or loaded.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the center console trim near the cup holder area, typically right side of the console; exact position may vary slightly but is accessible from the driver's seat without removing major trim pieces.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic column shifter will not function and the shift lock remains engaged. You must use the mechanical shift-lock override as described above. The override mechanically releases the shifter lock regardless of electrical power. If the override does not release the shifter, you may need to jump-start the 12V battery minimally to provide power to the shifter module. As a last resort for flatbed loading, the vehicle can be dragged onto the flatbed in Park with wheel dollies under the rear wheels (RWD/AWD models).