Parking pole???
 

Yesterday a co worker who was parked in front of me,had his foot slip off the clutch and plowed into the front of my 300E 2.8.The car broke loose of its parked position,and rolled back 40 feet into a busy two lane highway.Luckly no one was hurt'''I called the Mercedes dealer and asked how the car was able to brake loose like that.He said it was a parking pole?What does it do.And does it need to be fixed?How much should it cost to fix.There is now visual damage to the car. would it be a good idea to have a body shop look at it.Thanks for your help''''Clark

The parking pawl is inside the transmission and locks the gearing to keep the car in place while parked. the sharp blow to your car broke or dislodged yours. Yes, it needs to be repaired. Not sure if driving it is advisable--better check with an MB tranny guru. Good luck.