Where is the gear shift for the Mercedes-Benz C260?
3 Answers
The Mercedes-Benz C260 uses an automatic transmission, and shifting can be achieved via a lever-like switch located behind the steering wheel. Mercedes-Benz's column shifter design: Behind the right side of the steering wheel is the column shifter. With the brake pedal depressed, pushing it up or down sequentially engages R (Reverse), N (Neutral), and D (Drive) gears. Pressing the button on the edge inward engages P (Park). Mercedes-Benz generally has two types: Non-electronic shifters function similarly to conventional ones, with a more complex shifting path. The other type is an electronic shifter, located where the windshield wiper switch is on regular cars. Pushing it upward sequentially engages N (Neutral) and R (Reverse), while pushing it downward engages D (Drive). Pressing the P button engages the parking gear. The electronic shifter only allows gear changes when the key is turned to position 2 or the vehicle is started.
The gear shift of the Mercedes-Benz C260 is quite interesting—it’s located on the stalk behind the right side of the steering wheel, called an electronic column shifter. People used to traditional gear levers might take a while to find it, but once you get the hang of it, it’s super convenient. No need to look down to check gears—shifting feels as natural as using the turn signal: push down for D (Drive), lightly push up for R (Reverse), and press the button on the end of the stalk to engage P (Park). At first, I was worried about accidental touches, but then I realized you must press the brake to shift—pretty smart design. This placement frees up space in the center console, so your phone can sit anywhere without blocking the view.
The biggest surprise of driving a Mercedes-Benz C260 is the gear shifter's location—that slender stalk on the right side of the steering wheel. During my test drive at the dealership, I even asked the salesperson where the gear knob was, and they chuckled at my old-fashioned query. This column-mounted shifter is genuinely effortless to use—no need to bend over for gear changes at red lights; just a light flick behind the wheel with one hand does the trick. The wiper controls are on the left stalk, while the right one handles only gear shifts. The RND positions operate like turn signals—just a gentle push. The most convenient feature? It automatically returns to P when powered off. Once, I forgot to shift to P and stepped out—the car engaged it automatically and even locked itself. The safety-centric design truly shows thoughtful engineering.
