Receiving Your Tesla
Where can I find the VIN of my Tesla?
The vehicle's VIN is available by logging in to your Tesla Account or Tesla app. Select your car, or touch the Tesla “T” logo on the touchscreen.
How do I get my HOV decals (California residents)?
Tesla EVs can get orange, clean air vehicle decals. After obtaining your license plate number, complete the online application and sendit to the address on the application, along with a check payable to the DMV. Read more on the HOV decals.
How do I pay for my loan through Tesla Lending?
The bank that is financing your loan will send you further information by mail within 2-3 weeks of your automobile being delivered. This will include precise instructions for that bank on how to set up your payments, which will be made directly to the bank that is financing your loan. If you want to apply for Tesla Lending, you must do it within 30 days of your delivery date. For further queries, get in touch with the Tesla Financial Services team directly at autofinance@tesla.com.
How do I add another contact to my Tesla account?
After you complete the Tesla account sign in, click on "Account" in the upper right corner to add a secondary contact to your car's account. Then, under "Personal Information," choose "Contact." You can add a supplementary contact to your account from this page.
I am a California resident. How do I apply for the California Clean Vehicle Rebate?
You may be eligible for a rebate from the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project if you live in California and register your Tesla there (CVRP). Apply by submitting an online application after which point you should get a confirmation email from CVRP with your application to be signed and printed. Submit your signed application and the supporting documents that you received during your delivery appointment to the CVRP through their website or via email (CVRP@energycenter.org). Applicant income and car order date determine eligibility and refund amount. If you require any further papers, please contact your Delivery Experience Specialist.
Tesla App
When will app access be granted?
Within 48 hours of delivery, Tesla owners will have access to the Tesla app. Once your request has been made, it will take 3-5 business days to complete for a user other than the owner. When app access is authorised, you will be alerted through email or text.
How do I enable Tesla app access for my family?
You must email us formal permission to give someone in your family access to your Tesla via the Tesla app. The instructions can be found on the Tesla app support page.
How do I use the Tesla app?
You may monitor and control your Tesla car or Powerwall from your phone using the Tesla app for iPhone or Android. To connect to your car or Powerwall, enter your Tesla account email address and password after downloading and installing the app.
To learn more about the app, you can refer to the video: Tesla Mobile App Walkthrough. For more information, see the mobile app section in the Owner’s Manual.
Why can’t I access the Tesla app after delivery?
App access can take up to 48 hours after the vehicle is delivered. Visit the Tesla app support page to get more info if needed. While waiting for your Tesla app access, its possible to use the Key Fob (Model S and Model X) or Key Card (Model 3) to manage your Tesla.
Get to Know Your Tesla
How do I learn more about Model 3?
Visit Tesla's Model 3 support page to get familiar with the Model 3.
How do I set up my driver profile?
When you first modify the driver's seat, steering wheel, or side mirror, your car will prompt you to establish and preserve a driver profile. To view or create a driver profile at a later time, follow these steps:
- Press the 'Driver Profile' icon at the top of the touchscreen.
- Press 'Add New Driver,' and provide a preferred name and select 'Create Profile.'
- Adjust the seat, mirrors, steering and whatever you need to customize your profile and press Save.
Tesla allows you to save up to 10 different driver profiles for the car.
How do I program HomeLink?
To configure HomeLink, press the HomeLink icon at the top of the touchscreen and follow the instructions provided. The remote control must be with you when parking in front of the garage or gate that you want to program.
How do I pair my phone using Bluetooth?
These instructions will help you pair your phone with your Tesla car:
- The touchscreen and the phone must both be powered on.
- On the car touchscreen’s status bar, press the Bluetooth icon.
- On the phone, activate Bluetooth and set it to discoverable.
- On the car touchscreen, press Start Search. It will then display a list of available Bluetooth devices in range.
- On the car touchscreen, press the phone that you want to pair with. Wait a few seconds and the touchscreen will display a randomly generated number and the phone should also display the same number.
- Check that the numbers match and confirm on the phone to allow pairing.
After pairing is complete, your car immediately connects to the phone, and the touchscreen displays the Bluetooth icon next to the phone's name to indicate that the connection is active.
How do I change the displays on the instrument panel of Model S and Model X?
Press and hold a scroll wheel until options appear on the instrument cluster's same side as the scroll wheel. Select the one you want by rolling the scroll wheel and then pressing the scroll wheel.
How do I learn more about the features of my Tesla?
To find out more about the features availlable in your Tesla, access your Owner's Manual through your Tesla Account. The Owner's Manual can also be opened by pressing the Tesla “T” logo at the top of the car’s touchscreen.
How does voice command work?
Voice command can be used to make a phone call, navigate to a destination, or listen to music. For voice command to work, your automobile must be connected to the internet.
- For the Model S and Model X, this function can be initiated by pressing the voice button on the top right of the steering wheel. Speak the command when you hear the tone.
- For Model 3 car, use the voice command by pressing the microphone button on the touchscreen or through the right scroll button.
What do the scroll wheels on my steering wheel do?
Adjust the volume, control the climate, adjust the sunroof, go through your recent contacts, adjust the brightness on the instrument cluster (Model S and Model X), adjust the mirrors (Model 3) and more with the scroll wheels on your car. Refer to your Owner's Manual for more information.
What is Range Mode?
Range Mode on the Model S and Model X saves energy by restricting the temperature control system's output. When this mode is used, the cabin uses less energy to heat or cool. When an All-Wheel Drive vehicle is switched on, the torque distribution between the motors is tuned to maximum range. Turn this setting on through Controls > Driving > Range Mode.
How can I monitor my energy usage?
The Energy app allows you to monitor your car's energy consumption in real time. Touch the ‘Trips' tab in ‘Controls' on your car touchscreen when there is an active navigation route to see the anticipated energy usage for your travel.
What does the energy saving setting do?
When your Model S or Model X automobile is not in use, the energy conservation technology minimises the amount of electricity utilised. This comes in handy when you have to leave your automobile for a lengthy amount of time. The car computers in newer Model S, Model X, and Model 3 automobiles do not have this setting because they were intended for optimal energy efficiency.
What is the difference between Rated and Ideal range?
The vehicle has two settings for displaying range:
- Rated: based on the configured city and freeway driving cycles specified by EPA.
- Ideal: based on ideal conditions (like the best ambient temperature, speed and terrain)
Your Tesla will monitor your driving habits and set the range accordingly.
What is Valet Mode?
When using valet services or any other time you wish to restrict access to the features of your automobile, Valet Mode comes in handy. Activate Valet Mode on the touchscreen by selecting the driver profile icon, or use the Tesla app.
Can I turn off the touchscreen?
The touchscreen cannot be turned off altogether, but you can alter the brightness and Day/Night setting in Controls > Display, as well as darken the screen temporarily for cleaning.
How do I navigate the touchscreen?
The touchscreen displays all of the functions and information you'll need to drive your Tesla. Many aspects that are controlled by physical buttons in classic cars are controlled via the touchscreen (for example, adjusting heating and air conditioning, headlights, etc.). You can also utilize the touchscreen to personalise your vehicle to your liking. The touchscreen on the Model 3 displays driving-related information including as speed, range, and warnings, among other things. The Owner's Manual will provide more information.
Traveling With Your Tesla
How do I turn my car on and off?
By squeezing the brake pedal and shifting into gear, you can start your Tesla. If you're not using your phone key, put your key card on the console and shift the car into gear with the Model 3.
You can turn off your Tesla by parking it, exiting it, and closing the door behind you, or by going to Controls > Safety & Security > Power Off on your touchscreen.
What should I know about traveling in my Tesla?
Check out the Tesla travel tips to find out more about how to optimize your range, schedule a road trip and how to charge the car on the go.
How do I operate the charge port?
To open your charge port, press the button on the Tesla charging connector. When your car is unlocked, you can also open the charge port using the touchscreen or by tapping on the port lid. Your automobile is ready to charge if the indication is white. A blue colour light indicates that your automobile is getting ready to charge after you plug it in. Charging is complete when the indicator turns green.
How do I activate Summon?
Summon is an Autopilot feature that allows you to enter or exit your garage door, park, and shut it down. It is no longer necessary to squeeze into and out of congested parking places. On the touchscreen, go to Controls > Settings >Driver Assistance > Summon > ON to enable Summon. Always be aware of your surroundings and double-check clearance on all sides of the car. We recommend that all new owners read the Driver Assistance section of the Owner's Manual for detailed instructions. Learn more about using Summon in your Tesla.
What is Autopilot and how do I operate it?
All new Tesla cars come equipped with the most modern driver assistance features, which are meant to improve safety and convenience while driving, resulting in a stress-free driving experience. Emergency braking, front collision warning, and side collision warning are among them. Learn more about Tesla Autopilot.
Your Tesla will match speed to traffic conditions, stay within a lane, automatically change lanes without driver input, transition from one freeway to another, exit the freeway when your destination is near, self-park when near a parking spot, and be summoned to and from your garage if equipped with Enhanced Autopilot.
Set cruising speed in the Model S or Model X by pushing the cruise control lever up or down while driving at your chosen pace to activate traffic-aware cruise control. Pull the cruise control lever towards you twice in quick succession to activate Autosteer. To enable traffic-aware cruise control on the Model 3, set the cruising speed by fully depressing the gear lever and then releasing it once you've reached your chosen speed. To activate Autosteer, pull the gear lever all the way down twice in a row.
How does Automatic Emergency Braking work?
Automatic Emergency Braking, if your car has Autopilot hardware, automatically applies full braking in circumstances where the forward-looking camera and radar sensor detect a collision is imminent.
Press either the accelerator or the brake pedal to disengage Automatic Emergency Braking while it is active. It's up to you to drive safely and keep your Tesla under your control at all times.
What should I know about driving in cold weather?
Cold temperatures and a fully charged battery both help to reduce the effect of regenerative braking. You may prepare your Tesla for cold weather using the Tesla app or the car's touchscreen. To improve your car's performance in cold weather, use these best practises:
- Precondition your car from your Tesla app for about one hour to heat your battery before driving, especially in near freezing temperatures.
- Charge your car while preconditioning to reduce the amount of energy loss from your battery pack.
- Turn off Range Mode to avoid limiting the power available to precondition your car, even when charging.
- In temperatures below 40° F (4° C), use washer fluid with antifreeze. Not using antifreeze can impair visibility through the windshield.
Find out more about preconditioning your Tesla.
Where should I place a transponder / toll pass?
To get the best results and minimise any disruption to your driving perspective, Tesla suggests inserting transponders and toll passes in the following locations:
- Model S: against the windshield just to the right of the sensor housing above the rear-view mirror.
- Model X: somewhere in the upper shaded half of the windshield.
- Model 3: on the right side of the rear-view mirror.
Note: You can attach a weather-proof transponder to the front license plate.
What If I lose my keys?
It is possible to use your Tesla app to remotely start the car if you lost the Key Fobs and Key Cards. Replacement Key Fobs and Key Cards can be paired to the car at your local Service Center.
What if I get locked out of my car?
Using the Tesla mobile app to unlock your car if you are in within cellular connectivity. If this is not possible, contact Tesla Roadside Support for lockout assistance.
Maintaining my Tesla
How do I get software updates and how long do they take?
Tesla owners do not need to hassle about how to obtain a Tesla software update. Tesla vehicles receive software updates that add new features automatically. As updates become available, you can instal them instantly or later using your touchscreen. Depending on the strength of the connection and the size of the update, installing an update can take up to two hours, but connecting your car to a strong Wi-Fi network provides the quickest download time.
Can I drive my car during a software update?
As a safety precaution, you are unable to drive your car while the software is being updated. When your car is not in use, we recommend scheduling update installations.
What kind of regular maintenance can I expect with my new Tesla?
Your car has been designed to track the consumption and wear-and-tear of serviceable components, decreasing the amount of components that need to be serviced or inspected on a regular basis. Tire rotation, brake fluid replacement, and battery coolant replacement are the only three items that have scheduled maintenance intervals at the moment.
The car is designed to notify you when a service is needed for any items and the service can be scheduled via the Tesla app. Refer to the Owner's Manual for recommendations as well as daily and monthly checks that you can do yourself.
Where can I get my car repaired?
Visit Tesla Service to find out more about over-the-air updates and remote diagnostics. You may now plan an appointment to visit your nearest Tesla Service Center for maintenance or minor repairs such as small dents, scrapes, or scratches through the TTesla app. Winter Tires can be obtained and installed by Tesla Service. Find out more about your Service Visits.
Full-service Tesla Body shops in the Tesla-Approved Body Repair Network are appropriate for more comprehensive body repair or structural repairs. Visit Tesla Body Shop Support to locate Tesla approved body shops and find information on how to contact a member of our Body Shop Customer Advocate team.
How do I tow my car?
The towing guide in your glove compartment should be given to your towing operator. Depending on your situation, you can also call the Roadside Assistance hotline for emergency assistance with required towing procedures. Learn more about Tesla’s Roadside Assistance Policy.
What is covered under Roadside Assistance?
Roadside Assistance is available 24/7/365 in the first four years, or within 50,000 miles for cars covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Learn more about what's included in Tesla’s Roadside Assistance Policy.
Where is my Tesla signed Motor Vehicle Purchase Agreement (MVPA)?
Disclaimer:
Tesla, Inc. was not involved in the development of this document and did not provide any input or otherwise edit, review or authorize it.
