How to Put a Tesla Model Y in Neutral: The Definitive Guide

Putting your Tesla Model Y in Neutral might seem like a simple task, but understanding the nuances is crucial, especially in various situations like car washes or emergency towing. Here’s the concise answer:

To put a Tesla Model Y in Neutral, you can either gently push the gear selector stalk up or down once to shift into Neutral, or you can access the Tow Mode setting within the vehicle’s touchscreen menu, especially useful for long-duration Neutral requirements.

Now, let’s dive deeper and unravel the intricacies of Neutral in your Model Y. We’ll explore the different methods, explain when each is most appropriate, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions. Buckle up!

Understanding Neutral in Your Tesla Model Y

Unlike traditional cars with a physical gear lever, the Tesla Model Y employs a minimalist gear selector stalk located on the right side of the steering column. The “Neutral” position isn’t immediately obvious, but it’s a vital function for specific situations. Before we get to the ‘how’, let’s understand the ‘why’.

Why Use Neutral in a Tesla Model Y?

Neutral disengages the motor from the wheels, allowing the vehicle to roll freely. This is essential for:

• Car Washes: Automated car washes often require the vehicle to be in Neutral and pushed or pulled through the system.
• Towing: Flatbed towing requires the vehicle to be in Neutral to prevent damage to the drivetrain.
• Emergency Situations: In certain emergency scenarios, like needing to move the vehicle manually, Neutral is indispensable.
• Service and Maintenance: Technicians may need Neutral for diagnostics or repair procedures.

Methods for Engaging Neutral in Your Model Y

There are a few ways to put your Model Y into Neutral. Let’s break down each method step-by-step:

Method 1: The Gear Selector Stalk

This is the quickest and most common method for temporarily engaging Neutral.

1. Ensure the vehicle is stationary: The Model Y must be completely stopped before shifting into Neutral.
2. Gently Push the Gear Selector: Lightly tap the gear selector stalk either upwards (as if selecting Reverse) or downwards (as if selecting Drive) once. Do not fully engage either gear.
3. Observe the Touchscreen: The touchscreen will display “Neutral” indicating that the gear is engaged.

Important Considerations:

• This method only keeps the vehicle in Neutral temporarily. If you open the driver’s door, unbuckle the seatbelt, or apply the brakes for an extended period, the vehicle might automatically shift back into Park (P).
• Be extremely cautious on slopes. With the vehicle in Neutral, it will roll freely.

Method 2: Tow Mode (for Extended Neutral)

Tow Mode is specifically designed to keep the vehicle in Neutral for an extended period, ideal for towing or situations where you need the car to roll freely without automatic re-engagement of Park.

1. Access the Controls Menu: On the touchscreen, tap on “Controls.”
2. Navigate to Service: Within the Controls menu, select “Service.”
3. Engage Tow Mode: Look for the “Tow Mode” option and toggle it on.
4. Follow the On-Screen Prompts: The system will prompt you to confirm your choice. Read and understand the warnings before proceeding.
5. Confirmation: The touchscreen will display a confirmation that Tow Mode is active.

Important Considerations:

• Tow Mode disables certain safety features, so only use it when necessary.
• Disabling Tow Mode requires the same steps: Controls > Service > Tow Mode (toggle off).
• Ensure the parking brake is released before attempting to move the vehicle in Tow Mode.

Method 3: Using the Mobile App (Emergency Situations)

While not a direct “Neutral” function, the Tesla mobile app allows you to release the parking brake remotely. This, in conjunction with chocking the wheels, could be useful in certain emergency scenarios where the vehicle needs to be moved slightly. However, this is more of a workaround and should be used with extreme caution. Always prioritize safety.

1. Open the Tesla App: On your smartphone, open the Tesla app.
2. Access Controls: Navigate to the vehicle controls.
3. Release Parking Brake (if possible): If the app allows, attempt to release the parking brake remotely. This function might be disabled under certain conditions (e.g., the car being on an incline).
4. Chock the Wheels: Immediately after releasing the parking brake, secure the wheels with chocks to prevent unintended movement.

Important Considerations:

• This method should only be used in emergency situations where you need to move the vehicle a short distance and cannot access the interior.
• Always use wheel chocks to prevent the car from rolling away.
• This method does not put the car in a true “Neutral” state, but it disengages the parking brake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about putting a Tesla Model Y in Neutral:

1. What happens if I try to put the Model Y in Neutral while driving?

The Model Y will not shift into Neutral while in motion at higher speeds. It’s a safety feature to prevent accidental disengagement of the motor. However, at very low speeds (e.g., creeping in traffic), it may be possible, but it is not recommended.

2. Can I put the Model Y in Neutral while charging?

Yes, you can put the Model Y in Neutral while charging. This might be useful if you need to slightly reposition the car without interrupting the charging process, especially if it’s connected to a mobile charger.

3. Does putting the Model Y in Neutral drain the battery?

No, putting the Model Y in Neutral does not significantly drain the battery. The motor is disengaged, so it’s not consuming power to drive the wheels. However, the car’s systems (screen, lights, etc.) will still draw power.

4. How do I know if Tow Mode is active?

The touchscreen will display a prominent notification indicating that Tow Mode is active. You will also notice that the car rolls freely when pushed.

5. What are the risks of using Tow Mode improperly?

Using Tow Mode improperly can be dangerous. The primary risk is unintended movement of the vehicle, especially on slopes. Tow Mode disables some safety features, so use it responsibly.

6. Can I use Neutral in a car wash?

Yes, Neutral is essential for most automated car washes. Use the gear selector stalk method to engage Neutral temporarily.

7. Why doesn’t the Model Y have a dedicated “Neutral” button or lever?

Tesla prioritizes a minimalist design. The gear selector stalk and touchscreen interface provide the necessary functionality without adding unnecessary complexity.

8. Is there a way to permanently disable the automatic Park function?

No, there isn’t a way to permanently disable the automatic Park function. It’s a safety feature designed to prevent the car from rolling away.

9. What should I do if my Model Y gets stuck and I need to move it manually?

Engage Tow Mode (if possible) and carefully push the vehicle. If Tow Mode is not an option, consider using the mobile app to release the parking brake and use wheel chocks. Exercise extreme caution and seek professional assistance if needed.

10. Does the Model Y have a “shift lock release” like some traditional cars?

No, the Model Y does not have a physical “shift lock release” mechanism. The electronic gear selector and Tow Mode provide the necessary functionality.

11. Can I remotely put the Model Y in Neutral using the Tesla app?

No, the Tesla app does not have a direct function to put the car in Neutral remotely. However, you can release the parking brake remotely, which can be useful in specific situations.

12. How do I exit Neutral in the Model Y?

To exit Neutral, simply push the gear selector stalk up (for Reverse) or down (for Drive) to engage the desired gear. If in Tow Mode, you need to disable Tow Mode through the touchscreen menu (Controls > Service > Tow Mode).

Mastering the art of engaging Neutral in your Tesla Model Y empowers you to handle various situations confidently. Remember safety is paramount. Always understand the implications of disengaging the motor and take necessary precautions to prevent accidents. Now go forth and conquer the open road… or the car wash!