🚨 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 GLE (final year of W166 generation) uses a traditional console-mounted PRND lever with electronic shift interlock.
✓ 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 position 1 (ACC) or 2 (ON) if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override cover - it is a small rectangular cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the bottom of the shifter surround
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to carefully pry off the override cover
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the exposed override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no brake pedal resistance, simply move the shifter to Neutral while holding the override
- Release the override tool and replace the cover
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover on the left side of the shifter base, accessible with the metal key blade or small screwdriver
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, you cannot use ignition position. Simply remove the override cover, press the override mechanism down with the key blade or screwdriver, and move the shifter to Neutral mechanically. The shifter will move without any electrical power when the override is engaged.