🚨 2019 Mercedes-Benz E300 W213: Emergency Neutral
The W213 E-Class 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 level surface and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to ON position (press START button twice without brake pedal) to energize the shifter electronics.
- If the shifter stalk will not move due to a failed brake-light switch, locate the shift lock override access.
- Remove the small rectangular cap on the right side of the column shroud, just below and behind the shifter stalk base.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade into the override slot and press down while pulling the shifter stalk toward you to select Neutral.
- If successful, the transmission will shift to N and the dashboard will display 'N'.
- The vehicle can now be rolled or towed with rear wheels on the ground for short distances (consult owner's manual for maximum speed and distance).
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the right side of the steering column shroud, just below and behind the shifter stalk base
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic shifter will not function at all. The shift lock override requires at least accessory power (ignition ON). If the 12V battery is completely dead, you must jump-start the vehicle or connect an external 12V power source to the battery terminals to energize the shifter system before attempting to shift to neutral. Without any power, the transmission will remain locked in Park and the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground.