🚨 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS550 X166: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 GLS550 X166 uses a traditional console-mounted electronic gear selector lever located on the center console.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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.
- Insert the key and turn the ignition to position II (ON), or press the START button without pressing the brake pedal to power on accessories.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Press the release button on the side of the shifter and move it to the Neutral position.
- If the shifter will not move due to a failed brake light switch or shift interlock, locate the shift lock override slot—a small rectangular or circular cover on the console to the left or front of the shifter base.
- Pry off the small cover with a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, mechanical key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, release the override and verify the shifter is locked in Neutral before moving the vehicle.
Shift-lock override location
Small cover on the center console directly to the left or in front of the shifter base; pry off to access the manual shift lock release slot
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shifter is completely locked. Use the shift lock override: remove the small cover near the shifter base, insert a tool into the slot, and press down while moving the shifter to Neutral. If the override does not work or cannot be accessed, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground. Do NOT attempt to tow with rear wheels on the ground, as the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system can be damaged.