🚨 2024 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 Maybach S-Class uses a column-mounted stalk shifter (electronic gear selector) on the right side of the steering column, similar to the standard S-Class W223 platform.
✓ 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 possible.
- If you have any 12V power: Turn the ignition to ON (press START button without brake pedal, or use emergency key access if battery is weak).
- Locate the shift-lock override access: On the lower left side of the steering column shroud, near the knee bolster area, there is a small rectangular cap or slot.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to remove the cap.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the column stalk shifter to Neutral.
- If the vehicle has absolutely no power and the electronic shifter will not respond: You must gain 12V power via jump-starting or connecting a battery maintainer to the jump-start terminals (under hood) before the shift-lock can be overridden, as the shifter is entirely electronic.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or winched onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the lower left side of the steering column shroud, near the driver's knee area; exact position may require removing lower trim panel for access.
With zero electrical power
The column stalk shifter is fully electronic and requires at least some 12V power to disengage the shift lock. Jump-start the vehicle using the terminals under the hood (positive terminal under red cover, negative grounding point on strut tower or chassis) to provide minimal power, then use the override procedure. Without any power, the transmission will remain locked in Park.