🚨 2014 Mercedes-Benz E400 W212: Emergency Neutral
The 2014 W212 E400 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 functional.
- Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to position 1 or 2 (ACC or ON) if possible; if battery is completely dead, this may not work.
- Press the brake pedal firmly.
- Attempt to move the column shifter stalk down to Neutral (one notch down from Park).
- If the shifter will not release from Park due to shift interlock failure, locate the shift lock override: on the underside of the steering column shroud, directly beneath the shifter stalk, there is a small access hole or slot.
- You may need to feel for it or remove the lower steering column trim panel for better access (typically held by clips or small screws).
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the key blade into the override slot and press upward while simultaneously moving the shifter stalk down to N.
- If the electronic steering lock will not release with no power, you must jump-start the 12V battery (located in the engine bay, right side under a cover) to momentarily power the steering lock and shifter interlock.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or winched onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small access hole on the underside of the steering column shroud, directly beneath the shifter stalk; may require partial removal of lower column trim for access.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic steering lock and shifter interlock will not release. Jump-start the 12V battery in the engine bay (right side) to provide temporary power. Turn the key to position 1, press the brake, and shift to N immediately. If jump-starting is not possible, the vehicle must be lifted with dollies or flatbedded with locked steering and transmission.