🚨 2022 Mercedes-Benz E53 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2022 E53 AMG uses a console-mounted electronic shift lever (column stalk on W213 E-Class) with electronic park lock.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly set and the vehicle is on level ground
- Attempt to start the vehicle or at minimum connect a jump starter to provide 12V power to the electrical system
- With power restored, press the brake pedal firmly and shift normally to Neutral using the column stalk shifter
- If the brake pedal does not release the shift lock, locate the shift lock override slot on the lower right side of the column shroud near the stalk base
- Remove the small plastic cap covering the override slot using a trim tool or flathead screwdriver
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade into the override slot and press firmly while attempting to shift to Neutral
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded onto a flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Lower right side of the steering column shroud near the shifter stalk base, covered by a small removable cap
With zero electrical power
With no 12V power, the electronic shifter will not operate and the steering lock will remain engaged. You MUST provide at minimum 12V power via jump starter or battery replacement to release the shift lock and steering lock. The mechanical override only bypasses the brake interlock, not the power requirement.