How to Put Your Subaru in Neutral with a Dead Battery

Brake Caliper

Don't panic if your Subaru suddenly runs out of juice and you have to put it in neutral. This can be a frequent problem, particularly in the case of automatic gearboxes. This is a comprehensive instruction that will assist you in safely and effectively shifting your automobile into neutral.

Why You Might Need to Shift into Neutral

There are a few reasons you might need to shift your Subaru into neutral when the battery is dead:

  • Towing:To move your car safely onto a tow truck.
  • Pushing the Vehicle:To reposition the car without starting the engine.
  • Battery Replacement: To perform maintenance or replace the battery in a more accessible position.

Steps to Shift Your Subaru into Neutral

For Automatic Transmission Models

Ensure Safety First:

  • Engage the Parking Brake: Make sure the parking brake is fully engaged to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
  • Turn on Hazard Lights:Ensure visibility and safety while working on the car.

Locate the Shift Lock Release

  • Find the Cover: Look for a small, removable cover near the gear shifter, often marked with a shift lock symbol.
  • Consult the Owner’s Manual: If you can't find it, refer to the manual for the exact location in your specific model.

Remove the Cover:

  • Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully remove the cover, exposing the shift lock release mechanism.

Insert a Key or Tool:

  • Insert your car key, a small screwdriver, or another suitable tool into the shift lock release slot.

Press the Brake Pedal:

  • Make sure your foot is firmly on the brake pedal to ensure safety.

Release the Shift Lock:

  • With the tool inserted and the brake pedal pressed, gently move the gear shifter into the neutral position.

For Manual Transmission Models

  • Press the Clutch Pedal:Fully depress the clutch pedal with your foot.
  • Shift to Neutral:Move the gear lever into the neutral position manually.

Additional Tips

  • Keep Your Owner’s Manual Handy:Procedures can vary slightly between models, so it’s always a good idea to refer to your owner’s manual for specifics.
  • Consider Using a Jump Starter: If you have access to a portable jump starter, use it to power the vehicle temporarily, allowing you to shift gears as normal.
  • Seek Professional Assistance : If you're unable to shift into neutral or are unsure of the procedure, contact roadside assistance or a professional mechanic to avoid potential damage.

Conclusion

Shifting your Subaru into neutral with a dead battery can be straightforward if you follow the right steps. Always prioritize safety and consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions. Whether you need to tow your vehicle or perform maintenance, knowing how to manually shift into neutral is a useful skill for any Subaru owner. For the best battery service in Malaysia, contact MyMechanic; they assist with finding the best nearby workshop.