🚨 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE43 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 GLE43 AMG (W166 generation) uses a column-mounted electronic shift 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 level surface and apply the parking brake if functional.
- Turn the ignition to ON position if 12V power is available (this may allow normal shifting with brake pedal depressed).
- If the column shifter remains locked and will not move to Neutral, locate the shift-lock override: look for a small cover panel on the lower steering column shroud, typically on the left side near where the column meets the dash.
- Use a small flat-blade screwdriver to carefully remove the override cover.
- Insert the screwdriver or Mercedes emergency key into the override slot and push while moving the shift stalk down to Neutral position.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or loaded onto a flatbed.
- If the vehicle will not move freely in Neutral, check that the parking brake is fully released.
Shift-lock override location
Small cover panel on the lower left side of the steering column shroud, near where the column meets the dashboard
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the column shifter will be locked in Park. You MUST use the shift-lock override or jump-start the battery first. The mechanical override works without power but requires accessing the release mechanism under the column shroud. If jump-starting is possible, this is the easier path as it enables normal electronic shifter operation.