🚨 2001 Mercedes-Benz S600: Emergency Neutral
The 2001 S600 (W220 chassis) uses a console-mounted shifter with electronic shift interlock.
🧰 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 level ground and the parking brake is firmly engaged
- Turn the ignition key to position II (ON) if battery power is available
- Locate the shift lock override access on the right side of the shifter base (driver's right when seated)
- Remove the small plastic cover/cap near the right side of the shifter gate using a small flathead screwdriver
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the exposed override slot
- Press the override button/release firmly while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the lever from Park to Neutral
- Keep the override depressed until the shifter is fully engaged in Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the center console shifter base, accessed by removing a small plastic cap in the shifter gate area
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the electronic shifter interlock will prevent movement from Park. Use the mechanical override procedure above. The W220 also has an electronic steering lock (EIS) that may prevent steering wheel movement without power - if steering is locked, you may need to momentarily provide 12V power to unlock before towing. A jump box can be connected briefly for this purpose.