Switching your Tesla Model Y or Model 3 into neutral mode (N) may seem unusual at first glance, as electric vehicles do not have a conventional gearbox. Nevertheless, there are situations in which it is necessary to shift the vehicle to "neutral" - for example in car washes or when towing. In this article, we explain in detail how to shift your Tesla into neutral mode and what you need to bear in mind when doing so.
Why is neutral mode important?
Neutral mode allows your Tesla, to roll freely without the drive intervening. This is particularly relevant in the following situations:
- Washing systems with conveyor beltSo that your Tesla can be pulled through the car wash, it must be set to "neutral" to prevent automatic braking.
- Towing: In the event of a breakdown, the vehicle must be in neutral to prevent damage to the drivetrain.
To switch your Tesla into neutral mode
Neutral mode is located between the "Drive" (D) and "Reverse" (R) riding modes and can be accessed by a slight movement of the drive lever. Here is a step-by-step guide:
From park (P):
- Press the brake pedalPress the brake pedal to make changes to the driving mode.
- Move the drive lever slightly: Push the drive lever slightly up or down to the first position without pushing it all the way down.
- Activating neutral modeYour Tesla now switches to neutral mode and can roll freely.
From drive mode (D):
- Press the drive lever slightly upwardsMove the drive lever slightly upwards to the first position.
- Deactivating assistance systemsIf the steering assistant or adaptive cruise control are active, hold the control lever in this position for longer than one second to deactivate them.
- Activating neutral modeThe Tesla switches to neutral mode.
From reverse mode (R):
- Press the drive lever down slightlyMove the drive lever slightly downwards to the first position.
- Activate neutral modeThe vehicle switches to neutral mode.
Important: To exit neutral mode, press the brake pedal while the vehicle is traveling slower than approx. 8 km/h.
Special features of neutral mode
- Automatic shifting into parkYour Tesla automatically switches to "Park" (P) when you leave the driver's seat. If you want the vehicle to remain in neutral mode (e.g. in the car wash), activate the car wash mode via the touchscreen.
- Activate car wash mode: In the menu, go to "Vehicle" > "Service" > "Car wash mode" and select "Free rolling". This keeps the vehicle in neutral mode and does not automatically switch to "Park".
Tips for practical use
- Deactivate the signal toneWhen changing the driving mode, a beep sounds by default. If you want to deactivate this, go to "Vehicle" > "Safety" > "Shift tones".
- Safety aspectsAlways make sure that the vehicle is safely parked before you leave it. Do not rely solely on the automatic parking function.
Conclusion
Shifting into neutral mode is a basic function of your Tesla, which is essential in certain situations. With the instructions described above, you can use your Tesla safely and easily to "neutral". This way, you are well prepared, whether for a visit to the car wash or in the event of towing.
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