W211 E320- How to move it without the key?
 

I am looking at an E320 to purchase for parts, and the seller says they don't have the key. Anybody know how to get the car so it will roll (out of park) and be able to steer it without the key? I imagine the owner will have to show proof of ownership at a dealer to get a new key, but how can the car be moved until a new key can be had?

If you pry the shifter boot surround off, there should be a black tab/button that the rear right of the shifter assembly. When you press it down, you should be able to move the shifter to neutral.



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That easy? Wow, I had no idea. Is it self evident where to pry to get the boot surround (wood?) piece off?

Just open the ash tray and pry with your fingers from the front of the surround. It pops right off.

There is also another way to get to the button by using a rod pushed through the cup holder. But I think you need to be familar of how the button works and removing the surround it best.


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Very cool, thanks.