Tesla Tow Mode: Putting a Tesla in Neutral for Recovery

In short: switch on Tow Mode on the touchscreen. The Tesla then stays in N with the parking brake released, but only for winching onto a recovery truck or moving it at walking pace. Without 12 V power Tow Mode can't be switched on, so the car is loaded on skates instead.

What Tow Mode does

Normally a Tesla applies the parking brake when you leave the driver's seat. Tow Mode keeps it in N with the parking brake off, so it rolls freely. Tesla says it's only meant for winching the car onto a flatbed or moving it out of a parking space. Only walking pace is allowed: depending on the market, about 5 to 8 km/h (3 to 5 mph) at most.

How to switch on Tow Mode

1. Chock the wheels, because the car rolls freely once Tow Mode is on.
2. Unplug the charging cable. Tow Mode isn't available while the car is plugged in.
3. Keep a key in the car. A key card, phone key or key fob must be detected.
4. Switch on Tow Mode on the touchscreen, on many software versions under Controls › Service. You usually need to press the brake pedal.
5. Winch the car on slowly and straight.
6. Afterwards, switch Tow Mode off or select P, so the parking brake holds again.

Tesla with no power: flat 12 V battery

If the 12-volt battery is flat, the car stops responding, the doors often won't open and Tow Mode can't be switched on. On the Model 3, and depending on the year the Model Y, there are two wires behind the front tow-eye cover, one red and one black. An external 12 V supply, such as a booster pack, connected there only opens the front trunk (frunk), nothing else. Underneath you can reach the 12 V battery for a jump start. Tesla says not to leave power on those wires for more than 30 seconds.

If Tow Mode still can't be switched on, Tesla says to load the car with self-loading dollies or tyre skates. That's exactly how we do it.

Why a Tesla shouldn't be towed

When the wheels of an electric car turn, the motors generate electricity. Over any distance that can damage the drive and electronics, and Tesla says damage from exceeding the limits isn't covered by the warranty. So a Tesla belongs on a flatbed with all four wheels off the road, not on a rope or a tow pole.

What to tell us when you call

• Which model (3, Y, S, X) and whether it's all-wheel drive
• Whether the screen still responds and Tow Mode can be switched on
• Where it is: street, car park, underground car park or charger

For other makes, see car stuck in Park: shift lock release by make.