🚨 2020 Mercedes-Benz S560 W222: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 S560 W222 uses a column-mounted electronic selector stalk on the right side of the steering column.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 apply the parking brake if functional.
- Locate the shift-lock override slot on the right side of the steering column near the base of the selector stalk.
- Remove the small rubber or plastic cap covering the override slot (if present).
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the emergency key blade into the override slot.
- Press and hold the override button/tab inside the slot while moving the selector stalk to the Neutral position.
- If the vehicle has absolutely no electrical power and the override does not work, the transmission must be placed in neutral via the transmission itself underneath the vehicle (consult flatbed transport).
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the steering column near the base of the selector stalk, typically covered by a small cap
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the column stalk override may not function. The transmission has a mechanical neutral release accessed from underneath the vehicle near the transmission pan—this requires a mechanic or flatbed service with proper tools. Do not attempt to tow with drive wheels on the ground.