Being stranded with a dead car battery is a frustrating experience. Not only does it prevent you from starting your car, but it also makes it impossible to shift gears. However, learning how to put a car in neutral with a dead battery can help you move your vehicle to a safer location or get it towed. In this guide, we’ll show you how to do it.
What Does It Mean to Put a Car in Neutral?
Before we delve into how to put a car in neutral with a dead battery, let’s first understand what it means to put a car in neutral. When you put a car in neutral, you disengage the transmission from the engine. This means that the wheels of your car are no longer connected to the engine, allowing you to move your car without the engine’s power.
Why Is It Necessary to Put a Car in Neutral with a Dead Battery?
When your car battery dies, it means that there is no power to start the engine. When you turn the key in the ignition, you’ll hear a clicking sound or no sound at all. This can make it impossible to shift gears, as the transmission relies on power from the engine to function. Putting your car in neutral allows you to move your car without starting the engine.
How to Put a Car in Neutral with a Dead Battery
Here are the steps to put a car in neutral with a dead battery:
- Locate the gear shift: The gear shift is usually located in the center console or on the steering column.
- Check the owner’s manual: The owner’s manual will have specific instructions on how to put your car in neutral. If you don’t have the manual, you can search for it online.
- Insert the key into the ignition: While you don’t need to start the engine, you’ll need to insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “on” position.
- Press the brake pedal: Press down on the brake pedal to ensure that the car is not in motion.
- Depress the shift lock: Some cars have a shift lock that prevents you from moving the gear shift out of park without depressing the brake pedal. Look for a small slot or opening near the gear shift and insert a key or screwdriver to depress the shift lock.
- Shift to neutral: Once the shift lock is depressed, shift the gear shift to neutral. The neutral position is usually indicated by an “N” on the gear shift.
What to Do After You Put Your Car in Neutral
Now that you’ve successfully put your car in neutral with a dead battery, it’s important to know what to do next:
- Get your car towed: If your car battery is dead, it’s best to get it towed to a mechanic or auto shop. Attempting to jump-start the car or replace the battery yourself can be dangerous if you’re not experienced.
- Move your car to a safe location: If you’re on the road, move your car to the side of the road or a parking lot to avoid obstructing traffic.
- Replace the battery: Once your car is at the mechanic or auto shop, they’ll be able to replace the battery for you and get your car up and running again.
What Not to Do When Your Car Battery Dies
When your car battery dies, there are a few things you should avoid doing:
- Don’t try to jump-start the car yourself: Jump-starting a car can be dangerous if you’re not experienced. It’s best to get a professional to do it.
- Don’t keep trying to start the car: Continuously trying to start the car can drain the battery even further and cause damage to the starter or alternator.
- Don’t ignore the problem: A dead car battery is usually a sign that there is an underlying issue with your car’s electrical system. Ignoring the problem can lead to more serious issues down the line.
Conclusion
Learning how to put a car in neutral with a dead battery is a useful skill that can help you in a pinch. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to move your car to a safer location or get it towed without starting the engine. Remember to always exercise caution and seek professional help if you’re unsure about what to do.