Does Chevy Bolt have neutral?
Yes. The Bolt EV has a Neutral (N) gear position on its drive selector, allowing you to disengage the drivetrain and let the wheels roll when needed.
What Neutral means in an electric vehicle
In electric vehicles, Neutral disconnects the wheels from the electric motor, so the wheels can turn without delivering power from the battery. This is useful for maneuvering, moving the car a short distance, or preparing it for towing. It is not a substitute for parking, and you should always engage the parking brake when the vehicle is stationary, especially on an incline.
How Neutral is used in the Bolt
To engage Neutral, apply the brake and move the gear selector to the N position. The instrument cluster will confirm Neutral. When in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved manually or towed under appropriate conditions, but you should follow GM’s towing guidelines and any year-specific instructions in the owner's manual.
Operational notes
Before using Neutral or preparing the Bolt for movement, consider these guidelines.
- Ensure the vehicle is stationary and your foot is on the brake before shifting to N.
- Use Neutral for short moves or when required for service or towing. Do not drive in Neutral for normal operation.
- After moving in Neutral, shift back to Park (P) and engage the parking brake when the vehicle is stationary.
In the Bolt, Neutral is not a drive mode; it simply disconnects the drivetrain from the wheels, allowing them to roll under their own inertia if pushed or towed within the allowed guidelines.
Towing and safety considerations
Towing guidance can vary by model year and configuration. GM generally recommends flatbed towing for the Chevy Bolt rather than towing with the drive wheels on the ground. If you need to move a Bolt without power, consult the exact procedures in your year’s manual, as there are differences between model years that can affect how Neutral should be used during towing and immobilization.
- Prefer flatbed towing or dolly towing with the drive wheels off the ground when possible.
- Do not rely on Neutral alone for long-distance towing; check battery and motor cooling requirements in the manual.
- When in doubt, contact roadside assistance or a qualified tow service.
Always follow the official owner's manual for your specific model year, since procedures can vary and improper towing can damage the electric drivetrain or battery management system.
Summary
The Chevy Bolt does have a Neutral (N) gear position on its shift selector. Use Neutral to disengage the drivetrain for short moves or for towing under the correct guidelines. For any towing, flatbed transport is typically recommended, and always refer to the specific year’s manual for precise instructions.
