🚨 2023 Mercedes-Benz E350 W213: Emergency Neutral
The W213 E-Class uses an electronic console-mounted shifter lever (similar design to W212 but with more electronic integration).
✓ 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.
- Attempt to turn ignition to ON position (press START button twice without brake pedal, if any battery power remains).
- Locate the shift lock release - look for a small cover/cap on the console near the shifter base, typically on the left (driver's) side or just forward of the shifter.
- Remove the small plastic cap using a flathead screwdriver or similar tool.
- Insert a key, screwdriver, or appropriate tool into the override slot and press down.
- While holding the override mechanism down, press the shifter button and attempt to move the lever to Neutral.
- If the shifter moves to N, the vehicle can now roll.
- Replace the cap after completing the shift.
Shift-lock override location
Small cap near the shifter base on the console - typically on the left side or forward of the shifter assembly. Exact position may vary slightly by model year within W213 generation.
With zero electrical power
The W213 shifter has more electronic integration than W212. With completely dead battery, use the mechanical key in the ignition first. The mechanical override should still function, but if the electronic shifter module is completely unpowered, you may need to jump-start the battery minimally (even 9-10V) to get the shifter electronics to release. If unsuccessful with override alone, a small jump may be necessary before the mechanical override will work.