🚨 1995 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Emergency Neutral
The 1995 S-Class (W140) uses a column-mounted shifter lever with an electronic shift lock system.
🧰 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 flat surface and parking brake is engaged.
- Turn the ignition key to position II (ON) if possible.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- If the shifter remains locked in Park, locate the shift lock override access on the steering column.
- On the W140, look for a small removable cover on the left side of the lower column shroud near the base of the shifter lever.
- Remove the plastic cover and insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot.
- Press the release mechanism while simultaneously moving the shifter lever from Park to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or flat-towed (automatic transmission in Neutral, tow with rear wheels on ground for short distances only).
Shift-lock override location
Small plastic cap on the left side of the lower steering column shroud near the shifter lever base; pressing the internal release allows shifter movement.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the electronic shift lock will be engaged. The mechanical override is specifically designed for this situation—use the override slot to manually release the lock. The steering lock may also engage; gently wiggle the steering wheel while turning the key if the key won't turn to position II.