🚨 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 E-Class (W213 generation) uses a console-mounted electronic gear selector with PRND positions and 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 wheel chocks are in place.
- If battery power is available, insert the key fob and press the brake pedal while pressing the START/STOP button to activate ignition without starting the engine.
- With ignition on and brake pressed, move the selector down from P through R to reach N (neutral).
- If no battery power is available or the shifter will not move, locate the shift lock override: there is a small covered slot on the right side of the shifter base toward the rear.
- Remove the small plastic cap covering the override slot using a flathead screwdriver or key blade.
- Insert the tool into the override slot and press down firmly while attempting to move the shifter down to N.
- The shifter should release and allow movement to neutral—maintain pressure on the override until the shifter is fully in N position.
- If the vehicle has an electronic parking brake (standard on 2018), it cannot be released without 12V power.
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the shifter base toward the rear, covered by a small plastic cap—look for a small rectangular opening near where the shifter meets the console.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the shift lock override will function mechanically to allow shifting to N. However, the electronic parking brake CANNOT be released without power, and the steering wheel will remain locked. You must use a flatbed tow truck with a winch—do not attempt to roll the vehicle. The W213 E-Class electronic systems require power for parking brake release.