🚨 2022 Mercedes-Benz S580 Maybach W223: Emergency Neutral
The W223 Maybach S580 uses a column-mounted electronic shifter stalk 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 flat surface and apply the parking brake if functional.
- If you have any 12V power: Turn the ignition to ON position (press START button without brake pedal).
- If brake-light switch has failed but you have power: Locate the shift lock override slot on the right side of the column shroud near the base of the shifter stalk.
- Remove the small rectangular trim cover (it may say 'SHIFT LOCK' or have a key symbol) by gently prying with a flat tool.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, move the shifter stalk down to D/N range, then select N using the selector.
- If completely without power: The shift lock override will NOT work without 12V - you must jump-start the 12V battery or connect a battery maintainer to obtain minimal power.
- Once in Neutral with ignition ON, the vehicle can roll freely.
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the steering column shroud near the base of the shifter stalk, behind a small rectangular trim cover
With zero electrical power
The electronic shifter stalk requires at least minimal 12V power to unlock and function. With zero power, the shift lock override mechanism is inoperative. You MUST provide 12V power via jump-start or battery connection before any shift lock override will work. Connect jumper cables or a portable jump starter to the battery (trunk location) to restore minimal electrical function.