🚨 2014 Mercedes-Benz S600: Emergency Neutral
The 2014 S600 (W222 generation, first year) uses a column-mounted electronic shifter 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 level surface and parking brake is engaged
- Turn the ignition to ON position (push start button without brake pedal)
- Locate the shift lock override access point on the right side of the column shroud, below and behind the shifter stalk
- Remove the small oval or rectangular plastic cover by gently prying with a trim tool
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the emergency key blade into the override slot and press firmly downward
- While holding the override pressed, move the shifter stalk down through Drive to Neutral (or up to Neutral depending on current position)
- The shifter will click into Neutral; remove the tool and replace the cover
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the steering column shroud, below and behind the shifter stalk base - a small covered slot accessible after removing an oval plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the electronic shifter solenoid remains locked. You must provide 12V power via jump pack or jumper cables to energize the vehicle's electrical system long enough to use the shifter override and select Neutral. Without any power, the transmission cannot be released from Park - flatbed towing with all wheels off ground or dollies is required.