🚨 2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Emergency Neutral
The 2006 S-Class (W220 platform, final year) uses a traditional column-mounted PRND shifter lever 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 level surface and apply the parking brake if functional.
- Turn the ignition to position II (ON) if 12V power is available—this may allow normal shifter operation even with a failed brake switch.
- If the column shifter will not move from Park, locate the shift-lock override button: it is a small button or slot located on the underside or right side of the column shifter housing, near where the lever pivots.
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot (you may need to pry off a small rubber cap first) and press the override button while pulling the shifter lever down toward Drive/Neutral.
- Move the shifter to N (Neutral) and verify that the vehicle is in Neutral by attempting to roll it slightly (with caution).
- If there is no 12V power at all, see the no-power procedure below.
Shift-lock override location
Small button or slot on the underside or right side of the column shifter lever housing, near the pivot point—may be covered by a small rubber plug.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the column shifter's electronic lock will not release. Jump-start the 12V battery (located in the engine bay on W220) to restore power. Once power is available, use the override button if the brake switch has failed. If the battery cannot be jumped, the transmission will remain locked in Park and the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with the rear wheels lifted or on dollies. On W220, there is no mechanical Park release cable accessible to the typical user.