Here’s a step-by-step guide for some awesome Tesla shortcuts and tips that will make your driving experience even smoother. As a fellow Tesla owner, I’ll break everything down into easy-to-follow instructions for you!
1. Use “CarPlay” with Your Tesla (via Smartphone Screen Mirroring)
Although Tesla doesn’t officially support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you can still mirror your phone's screen through apps like "Android Auto for Tesla" or "CarPlay for Tesla". Here’s how:
Step-by-step instructions:
- Install an app like TeslaMirror or use your phone’s browser to enable screen mirroring.
- Connect your phone to Tesla via Bluetooth or USB.
- Follow on-screen prompts to begin mirroring your phone’s screen to the Tesla’s touchscreen.
- Once connected, you can use apps like Google Maps, Spotify, etc.
2. Quick Access to the Frunk and Trunk
Open the frunk or trunk without leaving your car.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Frunk:
- Double-tap the Tesla logo at the front of your car.
- The frunk will pop open.
- Trunk:
- If the key is in your pocket or purse, kick under the rear bumper to activate the power liftgate.
- The trunk will open automatically.
3. Activating “Dog Mode” for Pet Safety
Keep your dog comfortable and safe when you need to leave them in the car.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Tap the Climate Control section on your touchscreen.
- Select Dog Mode.
- The cabin will stay at your desired temperature, and a message on the screen will let people know your dog is safe inside.
4. Using “Sentry Mode” for Added Security
Activate Tesla’s security cameras to monitor your car while parked.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Tap on Control from the main screen.
- Select Security.
- Turn on Sentry Mode.
- The car will start recording its surroundings and trigger alarms if it detects any suspicious activity.
5. Speed Limit Mode for Extra Control
Limit the car’s top speed for others or when driving with teens.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Go to Settings in your Tesla’s menu.
- Tap on Driving.
- Enable Speed Limit Mode.
- Set your desired speed limit.
- The car won’t go over the speed limit you set until the pin is entered.
6. Custom Navigation Shortcuts (Home & Work)
Set your home and work addresses as shortcuts for easier navigation.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Tap the Navigation icon.
- Enter your Home and Work addresses in the navigation search bar.
- Save them as Favorites.
- When you want to navigate, tap Home or Work on the map for instant directions.
7. Climate Control from Your Phone
Adjust the cabin temperature before you even get in.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Open the Tesla mobile app.
- Tap on Climate.
- Set the temperature as desired (cool down or warm up the car before you enter).
- Wait until the app confirms that the car’s climate has been adjusted.
8. Rebooting the Tesla Screen or Car
Rebooting the system can solve minor glitches.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Screen Reboot:
- Hold down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel for 10 seconds.
- The screen will go blank, and the system will restart.
- Full Car Reboot:
- Press and hold both scroll wheels and the brake pedal at the same time.
- Hold for a few seconds until the system resets.
9. Activate the Child Lock (for Tesla Model Y & Model 3)
Ensure your kids are safe in the backseat by activating the child lock.
Step-by-step instructions:
- On the touchscreen, go to Control.
- Tap on Child Lock to enable it.
- The rear doors will now be locked from the inside, preventing your child from opening them while the car is in motion.
10. Turn Off Autopilot Features Temporarily
Sometimes, you may want to disable Tesla’s Autopilot for full control.
Step-by-step instructions:
- On the steering wheel, press Autopilot settings.
- Toggle off Autopilot or Full Self-Driving if you want to drive manually.
- You can also disable features like Navigate on Autopilot from the same settings menu.
11. Using Voice Commands
You can control many features of your Tesla using simple voice commands.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Simply say “Hey Tesla” to activate voice command.
- Then, say something like:
- “Turn on heated seats.”
- “Navigate to [destination].”
- “Open sunroof.”
- “Play [song/playlist].”
- Tesla will respond accordingly and adjust the car’s settings.
12. Using HomeLink to Control Your Garage Door
Tesla’s HomeLink system can open or close your garage door from your car.
Step-by-step instructions:
- In your Tesla’s Control Settings, go to HomeLink.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to link your garage door opener.
- Once set up, you can control your garage door through the car's touchscreen or mobile app.
13. Hide Personal Data (for Privacy)
Protect your personal data by clearing it when lending the car.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Privacy.
- Select Clear Recent or Forget Bluetooth Devices to remove any personal data.
- Your contacts, maps, and other information will be cleared from the car’s system.
14. Use the Tesla App to Find Charging Stations
Finding charging stations is easy with the Tesla app.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Open the Tesla mobile app.
- Tap on Charging.
- Select Find Superchargers.
- The app will display nearby charging stations, and you can navigate directly to one.
15. Activating the Auto-Wiper Function
Let your Tesla decide when to use the wipers based on rain or moisture.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Tap on Settings.
- Go to Wipers.
- Enable Auto Wipers.
- Your Tesla will automatically detect rain or water on the windshield and activate the wipers as needed.
Conclusion:
These step-by-step shortcuts and tips will help you get the most out of your Tesla and make your driving experience even more enjoyable and efficient. Whether it’s through voice commands, using your mobile app, or customizing settings, there’s a lot you can do to enhance your Tesla ownership. Share these tips with your fellow Tesla owners so we can all drive smarter! 🚗⚡
