🚨 2020 Mercedes-Benz S600: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 S600 (W222 generation, final 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 steering column shroud, below the shifter stalk
- Remove the small plastic access cover by gently prying with a trim tool or flathead screwdriver
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the emergency key blade into the override slot and press firmly
- While holding the override pressed, move the shifter stalk to Neutral position
- Remove the tool and replace the access cover
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the steering column shroud, positioned below and behind the shifter stalk base - covered by a small removable plastic cap
With zero electrical power
The electronic shifter requires 12V power to operate. With a completely dead battery, you must use jumper cables or a portable jump starter to provide temporary power to the vehicle's electrical system. Once power is available, the override procedure will release the transmission to Neutral. Without any power source, the transmission is mechanically locked in Park and the vehicle must be towed on a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground.