🚨 2024 Tesla Model S: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 Model S uses a touchscreen-based gear selector with a monostable column stalk backup that returns to center after each movement.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 - Tesla vehicles can roll freely in neutral
- If 12V power is available: Press the brake pedal, then swipe up on the touchscreen gear selector and select 'Neutral', or push the drive stalk up or down briefly (not fully into Park) to cycle to neutral
- With NO 12V power: You CANNOT shift this vehicle into neutral electronically - the electronic shifter and all controls are disabled without 12V battery power
- For towing with NO power: Access the 12V battery (under the rear seat, accessed by pulling the seat bottom cushion forward), connect an external 12V power source or jump starter to restore minimal power, then use touchscreen or stalk to select neutral
- If 12V cannot be restored: The vehicle MUST be transported on a flatbed truck - do NOT attempt to tow with any wheels on the ground
- Once in neutral with power: Use the touchscreen Transport Mode (Service > Towing > Transport Mode) which keeps the vehicle in neutral and disables parking brake for flatbed loading
- Transport Mode requires at least 15% high-voltage battery charge to engage - if HV battery is depleted, flatbed with wheel dollies is mandatory
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, there is NO mechanical shift-lock override or manual release mechanism. You MUST restore 12V power by accessing the low-voltage battery (located under the second-row seat, accessed by pulling the rear seat bottom cushion forward) and connecting an external 12V jump starter or power supply. Only then can you shift to neutral via touchscreen or stalk.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
CRITICAL: Tesla Model S MUST be transported on a flatbed with all four wheels OFF the ground. Towing with wheels down will cause severe damage to the electric drive unit as it generates unwanted voltage. The high-voltage battery must have sufficient charge (minimum 15% typically) to engage Transport Mode. If HV battery is completely dead, special flatbed procedures with skates or wheel dollies are required. Always consult Tesla roadside assistance - improper towing voids warranty and causes catastrophic damage.