🚨 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Emergency Neutral
The 1997 E-Class (W210) uses a traditional column-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift interlock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 parking brake is engaged
- Turn the ignition key to position I or II (ACC or ON) if battery has any charge
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the left side of the shifter assembly near the base of the column
- Remove the small plastic cover cap next to the shifter using a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override release while simultaneously pulling the shifter toward you into neutral
- If loading onto a flatbed, you may need to continue holding the override to move through Park-Reverse-Neutral sequence
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the left side of the column shifter assembly, requires removing a plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock may still be mechanically engaged. The override slot provides mechanical release that works without power. If the steering lock is also engaged with no power, you will need to use a slim-jim or call a locksmith to access the ignition, or jump-start the vehicle first. The override release is purely mechanical and does not require electrical power to function.