🚨 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 W167: Emergency Neutral
The W167 GLE uses a traditional center-console-mounted shifter lever with electronic shift-by-wire control and an integrated shift-lock mechanism.
✓ 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 (if functional).
- Turn the ignition to ON position if 12V power is available (do not start engine).
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Press the shift-lock override button while pulling the shifter toward N (Neutral)—the override is a small button/slot typically located on the left side or front face of the shifter base, often covered by a small cap or trim piece.
- If 12V power is unavailable, see 'No Power' procedure below.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small button or slot on the left side or front face of the shifter base near the console, usually behind a removable cap or trim cover
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shifter cannot be moved electrically. You must: (1) Connect an external 12V power source (jump box or jumper cables) to the battery or jump-start points under the hood to restore minimal power to the shifter module, OR (2) Access the shift-lock override slot (pry off cap near shifter base) and use a small flathead screwdriver or key to press the mechanical override while attempting to move the shifter to N. If the shifter remains locked, the vehicle must be placed on a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground or dollies under the rear wheels.