🚨 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE43 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2023 GLE43 AMG uses a column-mounted electronic shifter stalk on the right side of the steering column (Mercedes-Benz Direct Select system).
✓ 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.
- If the battery is dead, you must jump-start the vehicle or connect an external 12V power source to gain electrical power—the electronic shifter requires power to operate.
- Once power is available, turn the ignition to ON (press START button without brake pedal, or use key if applicable).
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Move the column stalk down once to select Neutral (N). The gear display will show 'N' on the instrument cluster.
- If the brake-light switch or shift interlock has failed and the shifter will not move, locate the shift-lock override.
- The shift-lock override is a small covered slot located on the underside of the steering column shroud near the shifter stalk base—you may need to feel underneath or use a flashlight.
- Remove the small plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade into the slot and press/hold while moving the shifter stalk to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or winched onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the underside of the steering column shroud near the shifter stalk base
With zero electrical power
The electronic shifter is completely inoperative without 12V power. You MUST jump-start the battery or connect an external power source (via jump points under the hood) to energize the shifter system. Once power is restored, follow the standard neutral selection procedure or use the shift-lock override if the brake interlock is faulty.