🚨 2001 Mercedes-Benz S500 W220: Emergency Neutral
The W220 S-Class uses a console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift-lock interlock system.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition key to position 2 (ON) if battery power is available - this may restore shift-lock function if only the brake switch has failed
- If shift-lock remains engaged or no power is available, locate the shift-lock override access on the shifter assembly
- The override slot is located on the left side of the shifter base - remove the small cover cap by prying gently with a flat-blade screwdriver
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override mechanism while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the lever to Neutral
- You may need assistance - one person holding the override tool down while another operates the shifter button and moves the lever
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or loaded onto a flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base assembly, covered by a small plastic cap - exact position varies slightly but is adjacent to the shift lever on the driver's side
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the shift-lock override must be used as the electronic systems will not function. The W220 can be particularly sensitive to low voltage - even weak battery power may prevent shifting. Consider jump-starting from the engine compartment terminals (positive under red cover, negative ground point on engine) to restore function. The mechanical override will work without any electrical power.