How to Use the Column Shifter in a Mercedes-Benz?
2 Answers
Mercedes-Benz column shifters are located beneath the steering wheel. The shifter features D, N, R, and P positions. The P position is a separate button on the side - simply press this button to engage Park. To select Drive (D), push the lever downward; push upward once for Neutral (N), and upward again for Reverse (R). Key facts about Mercedes-Benz's P position: 1. When traveling below 20 km/h, engaging P will immediately apply the brakes and bring the vehicle to a stop. 2. If attempting to engage P at speeds exceeding 40 km/h, the dashboard will display a warning indicating the vehicle is in motion and cannot shift into Park.
I've been driving a Mercedes-Benz S-Class for three years, and the column shifter is indeed very convenient to use. To start the car, press the brake pedal and simply reach for the silver stalk on the right side of the steering wheel with your right hand. Gently push it downward for D (Drive) to move forward, or pull it upward for R (Reverse) to back up. Parking is even easier—just press the button on top of the stalk to engage P (Park), leaving the center console clean and clutter-free, so your cup holder won't knock over your bubble tea. At first, I accidentally grabbed the turn signal stalk by mistake, but I got the hang of it within two days. It's most comfortable on long highway drives—you can shift effortlessly with your elbow resting on the armrest, and a light tap into N (Neutral) at red lights gives your right foot a break. Remember to press the brake pedal firmly when starting the car to shift gears, and wait until the gear indicator letters light up on the dashboard for it to take effect.
