🚨 2026 Rivian R2: Emergency Neutral
The 2026 R2 is expected to use a monostable stalk-style or column-mounted gear selector consistent with Rivian's design language.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and chocked if possible
- Access the 12V battery system: open the front trunk or access panel (location TBD for R2 platform) and locate the 12V battery
- If the 12V battery is completely dead, look for external jump posts (typically under a cover in the frunk area) to provide temporary 12V power
- Once 12V power is available, press the brake pedal and use the gear selector to select Neutral
- If the gear selector remains unresponsive, access the Rivian mobile app or driver display (if powered) and navigate to Service Mode to enable Tow Mode
- In Tow Mode: go to Vehicle > Service > Tow Mode and follow prompts to place the vehicle in transport neutral
- The parking pawl will release and the vehicle can be rolled; the parking brake must also be released via electronic button or app
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the R2 cannot be shifted electronically. You must jump the 12V system using external jump posts or charge/replace the 12V battery. Rivian vehicles do not have mechanical shift-lock override mechanisms; 12V power is required for all shifter functions.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
CRITICAL: Rivian EVs must be transported on a flatbed truck with all four wheels OFF the ground. Do NOT tow with any wheels on the ground, as the electric motors are always connected to the wheels and towing can cause severe motor and inverter damage. Tow Mode disengages the parking pawl but does NOT disconnect the motors. Flatbed only.