🚨 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE350d W166: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 GLE350d (W166 generation) 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.
- Turn the ignition to position 2 (ON) if battery has any remaining charge—insert key and turn two clicks, or press START/STOP button without brake pedal until dash illuminates.
- The column shifter is electronic and normally requires electrical power and brake pedal depression to shift. With a failed brake-light switch or shift interlock, the shifter may not respond to normal operation.
- Locate the shift lock override: on W166 models with column shifter, there is typically a small access hole or slot on the underside or side of the column shroud near the shifter base.
- You may need to remove or partially pry down the lower steering column cover panel to access the override mechanism.
- Insert a small screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press/hold while attempting to move the column shifter to Neutral (down one position from Park).
- If the shifter still does not move, ensure ignition is ON and battery has at least minimal charge—the electronic shifter requires some power to unlock.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or winched onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Typically a small slot or access hole on the underside or side of the steering column shroud near the shifter stalk base; may require partial removal of lower column cover to access.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic column shifter will not release even with the override. You must first provide external 12V power via jump-starting: connect jumper cables to the positive terminal under the hood (behind red cap near fuse box) and a suitable ground. Once minimal power is available, attempt the override procedure. If unable to establish power, the vehicle must be lifted/dollied onto a flatbed without shifting to Neutral.