🚨 2000 Mercedes-Benz E300 Turbodiesel W210: Emergency Neutral
The W210 E300 Turbodiesel uses a column-mounted automatic shifter with a mechanical shift interlock tied to the brake pedal and ignition.
✓ 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
- Turn the ignition key to position II (ON) if the battery has any charge remaining
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- If the shifter remains locked, locate the shift lock override slot on the right side of the column shroud near the shifter stalk base
- Remove the small plastic cap covering the override slot (use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool)
- Insert a small screwdriver or the emergency key blade into the override slot and push firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter to Neutral
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or towed with all four wheels down
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the steering column shroud near the base of the shifter stalk, covered by a small removable plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, you cannot turn the ignition to position II, which may prevent the steering lock from releasing. The shift lock override will still allow you to shift to Neutral mechanically. If the steering remains locked, the vehicle MUST be loaded onto a flatbed with the front wheels off the ground or on dollies. Do not attempt to tow with locked steering.