🚨 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 E-Class (final year of W212 generation) uses a traditional console-mounted PRND gear lever with electronic shift lock.
✓ 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 flat surface and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to position 1 (ACC) or 2 (ON) if battery power is available.
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small rectangular opening with a plastic cap located on the left side of the shifter base, near the center console.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small plastic cover cap.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and push down firmly while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power available) and moving the shifter to N.
- If no power is available, continue holding down the override release and use firm steady pressure to move the shifter toward N—you may need to rock the shifter gently while maintaining downward pressure on the override.
- Once in N, release the override and the shifter should remain in neutral.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base, covered by a small rectangular plastic cap accessible from the driver's seat.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the shifter override will still function mechanically. You will NOT be able to turn the steering wheel (locked) or release the electronic parking brake electrically. The electronic parking brake (standard on 2016 models) cannot be released without power—you must use wheel chocks and a flatbed with a winch. Do not attempt to roll the vehicle with the parking brake engaged.