🚨 2025 Mercedes-Benz Metris: Emergency Neutral
The 2025 Metris uses a column-mounted shifter stalk on the right side of the steering column with electronic shift-lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and wheels are chocked
- Turn the ignition to ON position if 12V power is available (do not need to start engine)
- Firmly depress and hold the brake pedal
- Locate the small shift-lock override slot on the left side of the column shroud near the base of the shifter stalk
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool into the override slot and press firmly
- While holding the override, move the shifter stalk down through positions to Neutral
- Remove the tool and verify the gear indicator shows N
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot on the left side of the steering column shroud, approximately 1-2 inches below the shifter stalk base
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift-lock override will still function mechanically. Insert tool into override slot and hold while moving shifter. The gear position indicator will not illuminate, but the transmission will mechanically move to neutral. You may need to use more force on the shifter than normal.