Mercedes W220 S-Class Stuck in Park

If you can not get your  Mercedes-Benz S-Class S430 S500 S55 AMG CL500 W220 out of the Park, it is either because the shifter module has failed (parts inside it break) or the stop lamp switch is defective. Watch the video below to learn how to get the car out of the Park in emergencies or if you need the vehicle towed. Check out the following video on how to replace the brake light switch, which takes about 10 minutes. If the shifter lever is not moving due to the broken 11mm shifter lock piece inside the shifter module, you can replace the broken piece for under $50. Resources on where to find the part and how to replace it are provided below.

How to get your S-Class CL-Class W220/C215 out of the Park.

If you are looking for a shifter release switch, you will not find one. Because the W220/215 Mercedes-Benz S-Class CL-Class didn’t come with a manual shifter unlock. So, if you need to get your car towed or your S430 / S500 is stuck in the Park, you may be wondering how to manually get the car out of Park. The video below will show you how to get your Mercedes-Benz shifter to move out of the Park.

Possible Causes and Solutions

These are the two main reasons your S-Class will not come out of the Park.

Mercedes-Benz Shifter Selector Module Problem

The part shown in the picture is located inside the shifter control unit/module. The function of this plastic piece is to unlock the shifter from the park position. It breaks inside the shifter and causes the shifter lever to not release from the park position. The small piece is known to fail frequently. Instead of replacing the whole shifter module at over $1500, you can open the shifter module and replace the part you see here. You can find this part on Amazon, and replacing it is possible if you are willing to remove the shifter module and open it up. You need Mercedes Shifter Selector Lever Repair Kit CL W220 C Class (Automatic Transmission Park Lock Lever) 2202679724  C101 2202679924 C102 For use with W215 W220 CL500 CL55 AMG CL600 S350 S430 S500 S55 AMG S600 Mercedes-Benz.

There are three different types of these shifter selectors available 2 types of 11mm and 1 type of 5mm. Please make sure you purchase the correct selector by comparing the existing piece on your vehicle with the pictures.

Replacing the broken piece is not difficult. Watch this video tutorial below to learn how to replace it on your S-Class. If you prefer reading, you will find directions on how to complete this on this post here:

You must disconnect the linkage under the car to the transmission to remove the shifter module. Unassemble the shifter box; inside, you will see a small broken plastic. That is the part that you need to replace. If you would like to read instructions on how to replace the broken piece, take a look at this article: Shifter Stuck in Park, How to replace the Broken Shifter Lock Piece. 

Brake Light Switch

The brake light switch could fail and stop you from being able to get the car out of Park and into Drive or Neutral. Luckily for you, this part is very inexpensive, and you can replace it yourself. Here Is how to replace the brake light switch on a Mercedes-Benz.

If you need detailed instructions on replacing the brake light switch, read this article: How to replace the brake light switch on a Mercedes-Benz Complete Step By Step Instruction.

 

What Can I Use to Troubleshoot Stuck-in Park Problems on my Mercedes-Benz?

If you’re experiencing problems with your Mercedes-Benz, the YOUCANIC full system diagnostic scanner can provide invaluable assistance in troubleshooting the issues. By connecting to your car’s onboard computer, the scanner can read fault codes and provide detailed information about any problems with your engine, transmission, brakes, and other systems. Additionally, the scanner can perform diagnostic tests on various methods, such as the ABS, airbag, and steering systems, to help identify the underlying cause of any issues.

In addition to providing diagnostic information, the YOUCANIC scanner can save you time and money on repairs by enabling you to perform simple fixes yourself. For example, if you notice the check engine light on, the scanner can assist you in identifying the problem and determining if it’s a simple issue you can address at home or if you need to take it to a mechanic. This can help you avoid unnecessary trips to the repair shop, saving you both time and money.

Overall, the YOUCANIC full system diagnostic scanner is a powerful tool to help you maintain and troubleshoot your Mercedes-Benz. It’s an excellent investment for both DIY mechanics and professional technicians, as it can assist in diagnosing and resolving even the most complex automotive problems with ease, saving you time and money on costly repairs.