🚨 2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Metris uses a traditional column-mounted shift lever with mechanical linkage to the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
✓ 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.
- Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the ON position (or as far as it will turn if battery is dead).
- Locate the shift-lock override slot: It is a small rectangular opening located on the lower right side of the column shroud, just below and to the right of the shift lever.
- Remove the small plastic cap covering the override slot (if present) by prying gently with a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, the metal key blade, or a similar tool into the override slot.
- Press down firmly on the override while simultaneously pulling the shift lever toward you and moving it to the Neutral position.
- Remove the tool and verify the shifter is in Neutral.
- The vehicle can now be rolled or towed.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot on the lower right side of the steering column shroud, just below and to the right of the shift lever base, typically covered by a small plastic cap.
With zero electrical power
The shift-lock override on the Metris is mechanical and does not require electrical power to function. Even with a completely dead battery, you can use the override procedure to shift into Neutral. The key should be in the ignition (turned to any position possible) to help release the steering lock if you need to steer while moving the vehicle.