🚨 2023 Mercedes-Benz E450 W213: Emergency Neutral
The 2023 E450 W213 uses a traditional console-mounted electronic gear selector lever with Park (P), Reverse (R), Neutral (N), and Drive (D) positions.
✓ 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 level ground and parking brake is applied (if functional).
- If battery has any charge, turn ignition to ON position (press START/STOP button without pressing brake pedal).
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Move the gear selector lever to the Neutral (N) position by pressing the lever forward once from Park.
- If shifter will not move due to failed shift interlock, locate the shift lock override access cover on the right side of the shifter base (driver's side of the lever).
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small rectangular override cover.
- Insert the key or screwdriver into the override slot and press down while simultaneously moving the shifter to Neutral.
- If successful, the shifter will move to N and the vehicle can roll.
- If battery is completely dead and override does not work, proceed to jump-start procedures or provide temporary 12V power to allow shifter operation.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular access cover on the right side of the shifter base (toward the driver's side of the lever), accessed with key blade or small flathead screwdriver.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shifter is fully locked. The shift lock override may allow limited movement on some W213s, but many require at least minimal 12V power to release the transmission pawl. Jump-starting or connecting a portable jump starter is the most reliable method. Once minimal power is available, use the override procedure while turning ignition ON.