🚨 2020 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 S65 AMG 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 flat surface and parking brake is engaged.
- Turn the ignition to position II (ON) if battery has sufficient charge, or use the jump-start procedure to provide temporary 12V power.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Move the shifter stalk down (toward you) past the first detent to select Neutral.
- If the shift interlock prevents movement, locate the small shift lock override access on the shifter stalk assembly itself or consult the owner's manual for the specific override button location on this electronic stalk design.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved; keep ignition in position II to maintain transmission in Neutral during towing.
Shift-lock override location
The electronic stalk shifter may have a manual override accessed through a small cap or button on the shifter assembly; exact location requires inspection of the specific shifter unit as this varies by production date.
With zero electrical power
With complete electrical failure, the electronic shifter will not operate. You must provide external 12V power via jump-starting to energize the shifter system long enough to select Neutral. If jump-starting is not possible, the vehicle must be placed on a flatbed with dollies or dragged onto the bed—do NOT attempt to flat-tow.