🚨 2023 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class: Emergency Neutral
The 2023 Maybach S-Class uses a Mercedes electronic column-mounted 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 ON position (push start button twice without pressing brake pedal, or use emergency metal key blade to access power if battery is dead).
- Locate the shift lock override: on the column-mounted shifter stalk, look for a small release button or access hole on the underside or side of the stalk assembly, typically covered by a small rubber cap.
- Use a small flat-blade screwdriver or the emergency key blade to depress the shift lock release mechanism through the access hole.
- While holding the override button depressed, move the shifter stalk to the Neutral position.
- If the electronic parking brake cannot be released, the vehicle must be transported on a flatbed truck.
Shift-lock override location
Small access hole or button on the underside or side of the column shifter stalk assembly, typically covered by a rubber cap
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic column shifter will not function and the electronic parking brake remains engaged. Connect a jump pack or external power source to the jump-start terminal under the hood (passenger side, marked with + symbol) to provide minimal power. If no power can be supplied, the vehicle cannot be shifted or rolled and must be flatbedded with all four wheels off the ground.