Putting your 2020 Jeep Wrangler in neutral may seem simple, but there are different ways depending on if you have an automatic or manual transmission, or if you need neutral for towing. Many Jeep owners get confused, especially when flat towing or moving their vehicle without starting the engine. Understanding how to do this correctly protects your Jeep’s transmission and prevents unwanted damage. Let’s break down the process step by step, highlight common mistakes, and share tips that even experienced drivers sometimes miss.
Understanding Neutral In The Jeep Wrangler
Neutral is a transmission gear where power from the engine doesn’t reach the wheels. This lets your Jeep roll freely. You use neutral when starting, parking, towing, or moving the Jeep without driving. The 2020 Wrangler comes in both manual and automatic versions, and has a separate transfer case lever for 4WD models. Knowing these details ensures you use the right method.
How To Put The 2020 Jeep Wrangler In Neutral: Automatic Transmission
Most 2020 Jeep Wranglers use an 8-speed automatic transmission. Here’s how to put it in neutral:
- Press the brake pedal.
- Turn the key to the ON position (do not start the engine).
- Move the gear shift lever from Park (P) to Neutral (N).
- Confirm on the dashboard that “N” is displayed.
If you want to tow the Jeep, you also need to set the transfer case to neutral. This is different from just putting the transmission in neutral.
Transfer Case Neutral For Flat Towing
Flat towing means pulling the Jeep with all four wheels on the ground, often behind an RV. You must set both the transmission and the transfer case in neutral.
Steps:
- Start the engine and keep your foot on the brake.
- Shift the transmission to Neutral (N).
- Move the transfer case lever from 2H (two-wheel drive high) to Neutral (N). This lever is beside the gear shift.
- Check the dashboard for confirmation.
If your Jeep has the Selec-Trac or Command-Trac system, the transfer case lever is simple to operate. But it’s easy to forget this step, leading to possible transmission damage.
How To Put The 2020 Jeep Wrangler In Neutral: Manual Transmission
Manual Wranglers are rarer but still popular. To set neutral:
- Depress the clutch pedal fully.
- Move the gear shift lever to the center position (between gears).
- Release the clutch. The Jeep is now in neutral.
For flat towing, follow the same steps as for automatic, but also set the transfer case to neutral.
Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Many owners:
- Forget to set the transfer case to neutral for towing.
- Leave the transmission in gear while towing, causing damage.
- Don’t check dashboard indicators.
To avoid mistakes:
- Always follow the correct order: Transmission first, transfer case second.
- Watch for warning lights and listen for unusual sounds.
Special Cases: Emergency And Dead Battery
If your Jeep has a dead battery, putting it in neutral is harder. Automatic transmissions use electronic controls. You may need to use the manual override slot near the gear shifter. Insert a screwdriver and push to unlock the gear shift. This is not well-known, but crucial in emergencies.
Comparison: Automatic Vs Manual Neutral Process
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Automatic | Manual |
|---|---|---|
| Gear Shift | Button and lever | Clutch and lever |
| Transfer Case | Required for towing | Required for towing |
| Dashboard Indicator | Digital display | Analog |
| Emergency Override | Manual slot | N/A |
Data: How Often Neutral Is Used
Most Jeep owners use neutral:
- When parking (about 70% of the time)
- During towing (20%)
- For troubleshooting (10%)
A study by Jeep forums found that incorrect neutral setting causes towing issues in 30% of cases.
Tips For Safe Neutral Setting
- Always double-check both transmission and transfer case positions.
- Use the parking brake after shifting to neutral to prevent rolling.
- Never force the gear shifter; if it feels stuck, check for brake pedal engagement or electrical issues.
- For flat towing, consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Example: Flat Towing Setup
A common scenario: You want to tow your Jeep behind an RV.
- Start the engine.
- Shift transmission to neutral.
- Move transfer case lever to neutral.
- Turn off the engine, but leave the key in the ON position to unlock the steering.
- Attach tow bar.
If you skip any step, your Jeep’s transmission or transfer case could suffer damage, leading to expensive repairs.
Table: Transfer Case Positions
For clarity, here are the transfer case positions:
| Position | Use Case |
|---|---|
| 2H | Normal driving |
| 4H | Off-road, slippery roads |
| N | Flat towing, moving Jeep without power |
| 4L | Rock crawling, heavy off-road |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Put My Jeep Wrangler In Neutral If The Battery Is Dead?
Use the manual override slot near the gear shifter. Insert a tool and push to unlock the gear shifter.
This lets you move it to neutral even without power.
Is It Safe To Tow My Jeep With Only The Transmission In Neutral?
No. You must set both the transmission and the transfer case to neutral.
Towing with only the transmission in neutral can cause severe damage.
Can I Shift To Neutral While Driving?
Yes, but it’s not recommended unless necessary. Shifting to neutral while driving can reduce control and increase stopping distance.
What’s The Difference Between Transfer Case Neutral And Transmission Neutral?
Transmission neutral disconnects engine power from the wheels. Transfer case neutral disconnects the wheels from both the transmission and engine, which is required for flat towing.
Where Can I Find Official Instructions For My Jeep?
You can check the official Jeep owner’s manual or visit Jeep Official Manuals for detailed steps.
Putting your 2020 Jeep Wrangler in neutral is quick once you know the right steps. Whether for parking, towing, or emergencies, following these instructions protects your vehicle and gives you peace of mind. Always check your owner’s manual for specific details, and don’t hesitate to ask a Jeep expert if you’re unsure.
