🚨 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Emergency Neutral
The 2023 E-Class (final year W213) uses a column-mounted electronic shifter stalk on the right side of the steering column.
✓ 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 if possible.
- If the battery has any remaining charge, turn the ignition to ON position (press START/STOP without brake pedal).
- Locate the shift lock override access - it is a small rectangular slot with a cover cap on the right side of the shifter stalk base where it meets the column.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the cover cap.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter stalk down to D/N position.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved. Keep the override depressed until the shifter engages Neutral.
- If the vehicle must be moved without any electrical power, the override method is the same, but you will need to manually push the vehicle as the steering will be locked.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with cover cap on the right side of the shifter stalk base where it meets the steering column.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the steering column will remain locked. You must either jump-start the 12V battery enough to get ignition ON, or the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with wheels free. The shift lock override will still function mechanically to release the shifter to Neutral, but expect heavy steering resistance if attempting to push.