🚨 2013 Mercedes-Benz S350 BlueTEC W221: Emergency Neutral
The W221 S-Class uses a traditional console-mounted PRND gear selector lever with electronic shift control and a shift lock mechanism.
✓ 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 level ground and apply the parking brake fully
- Turn the ignition to position 1 or 2 (ACC or ON) if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small rectangular opening with a cover cap located on the left side of the shifter base, toward the driver's side
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small cover cap
- Insert the key blade or small screwdriver fully into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to neutral
- If no power is available, continue holding the override down and physically move the shifter to neutral position
- The shifter should release and move to N; you may need to apply moderate force while holding the override
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with cover cap on the left side of the shifter base, toward the driver
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override still functions mechanically. Insert the key blade into the override slot and hold it down while moving the shifter. The transmission will mechanically engage neutral even without 12V power. You may need slightly more force than normal.