🚨 2019 Mercedes-Benz S600: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 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 base
- Remove the small plastic cover by carefully prying it out with a trim tool
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the emergency key into the override slot and press firmly downward
- While holding the override depressed, move the shifter stalk to Neutral position
- Release the tool and replace the access cover
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the steering column shroud, below and behind the shifter stalk base - accessed after removing a small plastic cover cap
With zero electrical power
Without 12V power, the electronic shifter solenoid remains locked and will not release. You must provide temporary power using jumper cables or a jump pack connected to the battery. Once the vehicle's electrical system has power, the override procedure will work. If no external power is available, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed tow truck with all wheels off the ground or on dollies.