How To Put A Tesla In Neutral: Step-By-Step Guide

Putting your Tesla in Neutral is a crucial skill, particularly for situations like automated car washes or towing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process seamlessly.

For Teslas with Gear Stalks (Model S, Model X, and Older Model 3 and Model Y)

1. Identify the Gear Stalk: The gear stalk is typically located on the right side of the steering column.
2. Shift into Neutral: To shift into Neutral, you need to hold the gear stalk up for about one second if you are in Drive, or down if you are in Reverse. This ensures the car does not accidentally shift into Neutral.
3. Verify the Shift: Once you see the gear indicator on your dashboard display "N" for Neutral, you can release the gear stalk.

For Teslas without Gear Stalks (Newer Model 3, Model Y, and 2021+ Model S and Model X)

1. Access the Controls Menu: Tap the "Car" icon on the touchscreen, usually located at the bottom center of the screen.
2. Select Neutral: In the Controls menu, find and tap the "Neutral" button. For newer models, this button might be located in the ceiling area near the hazard lights or on the touchscreen.
3. Activate Neutral: Press and hold the Neutral icon until the car engages Neutral. The touchscreen will display "N" to confirm the shift.

Using Tow Mode for Automated Car Washes and Towing

1. Enable Tow Mode: Locate the "Tow Mode" option in the Controls menu. This can be found by tapping the "Car" icon and then selecting "Tow" or "Transport Mode".
2. Confirm the Prompt: A prompt will appear warning you about the considerations while in Tow Mode. Read and confirm to proceed.
3. Shift into Neutral: Once in Tow Mode, tap the "N" button on the top right corner of the screen to engage Neutral gear.
4. Verify the Shift: Check the dashboard display for the "N" indicator to ensure the car is in Neutral.

Additional Tips

• Exiting the Car: If you attempt to leave the car while it is in Neutral, it will automatically shift into Park unless you are in Transport Mode.
• Transport Mode: To keep the car in Neutral after exiting, activate Transport Mode. This mode allows the car to roll freely, which is useful for towing or being pulled onto a flatbed truck.
• Safety Precautions: Always follow the instructions of the car wash attendant or towing personnel to ensure a safe and efficient process.

By following these steps, you can confidently put your Tesla in Neutral for any situation that requires it, ensuring your car remains safe and functional.