How to shift gears in a Mercedes-Benz S400L?
3 Answers
Mercedes-Benz uses a column shifter, which means the gear lever is located below the steering wheel. The column shifter is one of the gear lever arrangement forms in cars, where you pull the gear lever towards you to shift gears. The electronic shifter can only be operated when the key is in position 2 or the vehicle is started. Shifting gears allows the engine to operate at its optimal performance state. All driving conditions have corresponding shift points, aiming to reduce fuel consumption. The gear arrangement pattern is the same as that of a regular automatic transmission. Pulling it upwards sequentially engages N (Neutral) and R (Reverse) gears, pulling it downwards engages D (Drive) gear, and pressing the P button engages the P (Park) gear.
The gear shifting system of the Mercedes-Benz S400L is very user-friendly. I drive this car for daily commuting and find it super convenient. Before starting the vehicle, make sure to press the brake pedal, then ignite the engine. There is a stalk-style gear lever on the right side of the steering wheel—a light upward flick engages the reverse gear R, perfect for parking; a light downward flick engages the drive gear D, which is used for everyday driving. When parking, there’s no need for manual operation—simply turn off the ignition, and the system automatically shifts to P (Park) and locks the wheels to prevent rolling. I also love using the sport mode or manual paddle shifters on the highway for added fun, but beginners should just focus on mastering the basic gear shifting first. Always remember to press the brake before operating to avoid any risks. The overall design is simple, intelligent, and smooth, making it easy for new drivers to get the hang of it after a few tries.
As someone who frequently helps friends inspect their cars, I believe the key to shifting gears in a Mercedes-Benz S400L lies in paying attention to the detailed process. After firmly pressing the brake to start the engine, gently push the right-hand steering column stalk upward to engage R (Reverse) gear, which will be displayed on the dashboard, and gently push it downward to engage D (Drive) gear. When parking, the system will automatically detect the vehicle speed and shift to P (Park) gear, but it's safer to confirm the dashboard indicator before releasing the foot brake when starting or reversing. The vehicle also features a gear shift delay function to reduce errors, such as assisting in preventing rollback on steep slopes. I recommend users regularly check for wear in the gear shift mechanism and maintain smooth operation to prolong its lifespan, though overall failure rates are very low, so you can drive with confidence.
