🚨 2016 Mercedes-Benz S600: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 S600 (W222 generation) 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 on the right side of the column shroud, below the shifter stalk
- Remove the small plastic cover cap by carefully prying it with a trim tool
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the emergency key blade into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override pressed, move the shifter stalk to Neutral position
- Release the override tool and replace the access cover
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the steering column shroud, below and slightly behind the shifter stalk base - a small covered rectangular or oval slot
With zero electrical power
The electronic shifter requires 12V power to release the transmission from Park. With a completely dead battery, you must connect jumper cables or a jump pack to restore temporary power to the electrical system. Once power is available, use the override procedure. Without any power source, the transmission remains mechanically locked in Park and the vehicle must be towed on a flatbed with all wheels off the ground.