🚨 2005 Mercedes-Benz S500 W220: Emergency Neutral
The W220 S-Class uses a traditional column-mounted shift lever on the right side of the steering column with electronic shift interlock.
✓ 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 firmly
- Turn the ignition key to position II (ignition on) if battery has any charge remaining
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Locate the small rectangular shift lock override cap on the left side of the column shifter housing near the base where it meets the column
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the override cap
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the column shifter toward you to shift to Neutral
- If successful, release the brake pedal slowly while maintaining pressure on the override, then remove the screwdriver and replace the cap
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the left side of the column shifter housing near where the lever meets the steering column
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. However, you must manually turn the steering lock: insert the key and attempt to turn to position I while gently rocking the steering wheel. The 2005 model year likely has the electronic steering lock (ELV module), which may not release without power. If the steering lock will not release, the vehicle cannot be safely steered and must be flatbedded with front wheels on dollies or the entire car on the bed. Do not attempt to tow with steering locked.