Tesla 3 2019 Owner's Manual [no]
MODEL 3
OWNER'S MANUAL
NORTH AMERICA
The Model 3 Owner's Manual is available on the touchscreen.
To view it, touch Controls > Service > Owner's Manual or
access it after touching the Tesla "T".
More information about your Model 3 and the latest version of
this document is available at www.tesla.com/teslaaccount.
To contact Tesla, call 1-877-79TESLA (1-877-798-3752).
DOCUMENT APPLICABILITY
Features released in the most recent versions of software may not be described in this document but are
described in Release Notes. Display Release Notes on the touchscreen by touching the Tesla “T” at the top
center of the touchscreen, then touching the Release Notes link. If information provided in this document
conflicts with information in the Release Notes, the Release Notes take precedence.
ILLUSTRATIONS
The illustrations provided in this document are for demonstration purposes only. Depending on vehicle
options, software version and market region, the information displayed on the touchscreen in your
vehicle may appear slightly different.
ROD
P
UCT SPECIFICATIONS
specifications
All
However,
printing.
product modifications at any time. To communicate any inaccuracies or omissions in this document,
please send an email to: ownersmanualfeedback@tesla.com.
©2012-2019 TESLA, INC.
All information in this document and all vehicle software is subject to copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Tesla, Inc. and its licensors. This material may not be modified, reproduced or copied, in
whole or in part, without the prior written permission of Tesla, Inc. and its licensors. Additional
information is available upon request. The following are trademarks or registered trademarks of Tesla, Inc.
in the United States and other countries:
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Contents
Overview.............................................................2
Interior Overview.........................................................................2
Exterior Overview.......................................................................3
Touchscreen Overview..............................................................4
Opening and Closing..................................... 7
Keys..................................................................................................7
Doors..............................................................................................12
Windows.......................................................................................14
Rear Trunk....................................................................................15
Front Trunk...................................................................................17
Interior Storage and Electronics........................................ 20
Seating and Safety Restraints..................23
Front and Rear Seats.............................................................. 23
Seat Belts.....................................................................................26
Child Safety Seats.................................................................... 29
Airbags......................................................................................... 35
Driving...............................................................39
Driver Profiles............................................................................ 39
Steering Wheel...........................................................................41
Mirrors...........................................................................................43
Starting and Powering O....................................................44
Gears.............................................................................................46
Lights............................................................................................ 47
Car Status....................................................................................50
Wipers and Washers............................................................... 53
Brakes........................................................................................... 54
Traction Control........................................................................ 56
Park Assist...................................................................................57
Vehicle Hold................................................................................59
Track Mode................................................................................. 60
Getting Maximum Range........................................................61
Rear View Camera....................................................................62
Dashcam...................................................................................... 63
Autopilot..........................................................64
About Autopilot........................................................................64
Trac-Aware Cruise Control................................................67
Autosteer.....................................................................................73
Autopark......................................................................................79
Lane Assist..................................................................................84
Collision Avoidance Assist.................................................... 86
Speed Assist...............................................................................89
Using the Touchscreen................................ 91
Controls.........................................................................................91
Climate Controls.......................................................................98
Maps and Navigation.............................................................103
Media and Audio.....................................................................108
Phone.............................................................................................111
Calendar.......................................................................................113
Using Voice Commands........................................................114
Security Settings...................................................................... 115
HomeLink® Universal Transceiver.......................................116
Connecting to Wi-Fi................................................................118
Software Updates....................................................................119
Charging......................................................... 120
Electric Vehicle Components.............................................120
Battery Information................................................................122
Charging Instructions............................................................ 123
Contents
Maintenance.................................................. 128
Maintenance Schedule.......................................................... 128
Tire Care and Maintenance..................................................129
Cleaning......................................................................................135
Wiper Blades and Washer Jets..........................................138
Fluid Reservoirs.......................................................................140
Jacking and Lifting.................................................................142
Parts and Accessories...........................................................143
Specifications............................................... 147
Identification Labels.............................................................. 147
Vehicle Loading.......................................................................148
Dimensions and Weights.......................................................151
Subsystems................................................................................153
Wheels and Tires.....................................................................155
Roadside Assistance.................................. 162
Contacting Roadside Assistance...................................... 162
Instructions for Transporters..............................................163
Consumer Information.............................. 167
Easter Eggs............................................................................... 167
About this Owner Information...........................................168
Disclaimers................................................................................ 169
Reporting Safety Defects......................................................171
Declarations of Conformity.................................................172
Interior Overview
Overview
Interior Overview
1. Door open button (Opening Doors from the Interior on page 12)
2. High beams (High Beam Headlights on page 48), turn signals (Turn Signals on page 49),
and wipers and washers (Wipers and Washers on page 53)
3. Horn (Horn on page 42)
4. Gear selector (Shifting Gears on page 46), Trac-Aware Cruise Control (Trac-Aware Cruise
Control on page 67), and Autosteer (Autosteer on page 73)
5. Touchscreen (Touchscreen Overview on page 4)
6. Driver dome light (Lights on page 47)
7. Cabin camera (Cabin Camera on page 22)
8. Hazard warning flashers (Hazard Warning Flashers on page 49)
9. Passenger dome light (Lights on page 47)
10. Climate control vent (see Climate Controls on page 98)
11. Power window switches (Windows on page 14)
12. Manual door release (Opening Doors from the Interior on page 12)
13. Left scroll button (Scroll Buttons on page 41)
14. Brake pedal (Brakes on page 54)
15. Right scroll button (Scroll Buttons on page 41)
16. Center console (Interior Storage and Electronics on page 20)
17. Glovebox (Glovebox on page 20)
2 Model 3 Owner's Manual
Exterior Overview
Exterior Overview
1. Exterior lights (Lights on page 47)
2. Autopilot camera (About Autopilot on page 64)
3. Front door handle (Using Exterior Door Handles on page 12)
4. Key card sensor (Keys on page 7), Autopilot camera (About Autopilot on page 64)
5. Rear door handle (Using Exterior Door Handles on page 12)
6. Charge port (Charging Instructions on page 123)
7. Autopilot cameras (About Autopilot on page 64)
8. Exterior mirrors (Mirrors on page 43)
9. Radar sensor (hidden from view) (About Autopilot on page 64)
10. Hood/front trunk (Front Trunk on page 17)
11. Tow eye cover (Instructions for Transporters on page 163)
12. Wheels and tires (Wheels and Tires on page 155)
13. Rear view camera (Rear View Camera on page 62)
14. Rear trunk (Rear Trunk on page 15)
Overview 3
Touchscreen Overview
Touchscreen Overview
The features and information you need to drive Model 3 are displayed on the touchscreen. When
driving, the touchscreen displays driving-related information such as driving speed, vehicle range,
warnings, etc. The touchscreen is used to control many features that, in traditional cars, are
controlled using physical buttons (for example, adjusting mirrors). You can also use the
touchscreen to customize Model 3 to suit your preferences.
Warning: Always pay attention to road and trac conditions when driving. To minimize driver
distraction and ensure the safety of vehicle occupants as well as other road users, avoid using
the touchscreen to adjust settings while the vehicle is in motion.
Note: The image below is provided for demonstration purposes only. Depending on vehicle
options, software version and market region, your touchscreen may appear slightly dierent.
1. This area on the top of the touchscreen displays the time and provides shortcut to lock/
unlock the vehicle, access vehicle information (the Tesla "T"), choose or set up a driver profile
(see Driver Profiles on page 39), control HomeLink devices (if equipped) (see HomeLink
Universal Transceiver on page 116), view network strength, and connect to Wi-Fi (see
Connecting to Wi-Fi on page 118) and Bluetooth devices (see Pairing a Bluetooth Phone on
page 111). If you see an exclamation mark, touch it to see warning messages that are in
eect. If you see a yellow clock icon, a software update is available (see Software Updates on
page 119).
Note: An airbag status symbol displays in the top right corner of the touchscreen only when
Model 3 is powered on, ready to drive, and the airbag is turned o (see Airbags on page 35).
2. Car Status. This area dynamically displays the current status of Model 3 as you drive, park,
open doors, turn lights on, etc. Monitor this area when driving as it displays important
information such as driving speed and warning messages (see Car Status on page 50). When
the car is in Park, you can open the trunks or charge port door.
3. Cards. This area automatically updates to display information such as incoming calls, seat belt
reminders, current state of the wipers, etc. It also provides easy access to the rear view
camera (see Rear View Camera on page 62), charging status (see Charging Instructions on
page 123), voice commands (see Using Voice Commands on page 114), wiper controls (see
4 Model 3 Owner's Manual
Touchscreen Overview
Wipers on page 53), and seat belt reminders (see Seat Belt Reminders on page 26). Swipe
to the right or left to access:
• Trips. You can display distance driven, energy usage and energy eciency starting at any
time, or since Model 3 was last charged. You can also display this information for up to
two trips. Touch ... in the top right corner of a trip to rename or reset a trip.
• Tire Pressures. Display tire pressures or view cautions or warnings related to pressures
that are not within acceptable limits (see Tire Care and Maintenance on page 129).
4. Controls. Touch to control features and customize Model 3 to suit your preferences (see
Controls on page 91).
5. Media Player (see Media and Audio on page 108).
6. Touch the app launcher then choose from the following apps:
Calendar. See Calendar on page 113.
Energy. See Getting Maximum Range on page 61.
Web. Access the Internet using the web browser (if available).
Camera. Display the area behind Model 3. This area also displays
automatically whenever you shift into Reverse. See Rear View Camera on
page 62.
Call. See Phone on page 111.
Charging. See Charging Instructions on page 123.
Note: Swiping up on the app launcher displays the most recently used app (provided an app
is not currently being displayed).
7. Climate Controls (see Climate Controls on page 98).
8. Volume Control (see Volume Control on page 108).
Overview 5
Touchscreen Overview
9. The map displays on the touchscreen at all times (see Maps and Navigation on page 103).
Note: When you touch Controls, choose an app, or expand Media Player, the window displays
on top of the map. To close the Controls window, touch Controls again or touch the X in the
top corner of the window. To close an app, touch the X in the top corner of the window. To
close Media Player, drag it all the way down to the bottom of the touchscreen or touch the
icon again.
The Tesla "T"
Touch the Tesla "T" at the top center of the touchscreen to display:
• Vehicle name (see Naming Your Vehicle on page 96).
• Battery size.
• Odometer.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
• Version of software currently installed on your Model 3.
• Release notes associated with the currently-installed software version.
• This owner's manual.
• One-touch access to call Tesla Customer Support and Roadside Assistance.
• One-touch access to all discovered Easter Eggs (see Easter Eggs on page 167).
6 Model 3 Owner's Manual
Opening and Closing
Keys
Three Types of Keys
Model 3 supports three types of keys:
• Authenticated phone - You can set up
your personal smartphone to
communicate with Model 3 using
Bluetooth. Supports automatic locking
and unlocking as well as several other
functions using the Tesla mobile app. An
authenticated phone is the preferred key
because you never need to remove it from
your pocket or purse.
• Key card - Tesla provides a key card that
communicates with Model 3 using short
range radio-frequency identification
(RFID) signals. The key card is used to
"authenticate" your phone to work with
Model 3 and to add or remove other key
cards, phones, or key fobs. In situations
where your authenticated phone has a
dead battery, or is lost or stolen, use your
key card to unlock, drive, and lock Model
3.
• Key fob - An accessory sold separately,
similar to a traditional key fob, that allows
you to press buttons to open the front and
rear trunks, and unlock, lock, and drive
Model 3.
A Model 3 supports a total of 19 keys, which
can include authenticated phones, key cards,
and up to four key fobs.
Caution:
Remember to bring a key with
you when you drive. Although you can
drive Model 3 away from its key, you will
be unable to power it back on after it
powers o.
Authenticated Phone
Using your phone is the most convenient way
to access your Model 3. As you approach, your
phone's Bluetooth signal is detected and
doors unlock when you press a door handle.
Likewise, when you exit and walk away with
the phone, doors automatically lock (provided
the Walk-Away Door Lock feature is turned
on, as described in Walk-Away Door Lock on
page 13).
Before you can use a phone to access Model 3,
follow these steps to authenticate it:
1. Download the Tesla mobile app to your
phone.
Keys
2.
Log into the Tesla mobile app using your
Tesla Account user name and password.
Note: You must remain logged in to your
Tesla Account to use your phone to access
Model 3.
3. Ensure that your phone's Bluetooth
setting is turned on.
Note: Model 3 communicates with your
phone using Bluetooth. To authenticate
your phone or use it as a key, the phone
must be powered on and Bluetooth must
be enabled. Keep in mind that your phone
must have enough battery power to run
Bluetooth and that many phones disable
Bluetooth when the battery is low.
4. Ensure that Allow Mobile Access
(Controls > Safety & Security > Allow
Mobile Access) is enabled.
5. In the Tesla mobile app, touch PHONE
KEY then touch START to search for your
Model 3.
When your Model 3 is detected, the
mobile app asks you to tap your key card.
6. Tap the key card against the Model 3 card
reader on the door pillar or center console
(see Key Card on page 8).
When Model 3 detects your key card, the
mobile app confirms that your phone has been
successfully authenticated. Touch DONE.
If the key card is not successfully scanned
within approximately 30 seconds, the mobile
app displays an error message. Touch PHONE
KEY on the app again to retry.
To view a list of keys that can currently access
Model 3, or to remove a phone, touch
Controls > Locks (see Managing Keys on page
10).
Note: Authenticating your phone allows you to
use it as a key to access Model 3. To use the
phone hands-free, access your phone's
contacts, play media from it, etc., you must
also pair and connect to it using the Bluetooth
settings (see Phone on page 111).
Note: Model 3 can connect to three phones
simultaneously. Therefore, if more than one
phone is detected and you want to use, or
authenticate, a dierent phone, move the
other connected phone(s) out of range or turn
o its Bluetooth setting.
Note: Unlike the mobile app, once a phone has
been authenticated, it no longer requires an
internet connection to communicate with
Model 3. Authenticated phones communicate
with Model 3 using Bluetooth.
Opening and Closing 7
Keys
Note: Although Bluetooth typically
communicates over distances of up to
approximately 30 feet (9 meters),
performance can vary based on the phone you
are using, environmental interference, etc.
Note: If multiple vehicles are linked to the
Tesla Account, you must switch the mobile
app to the Model 3 that you want to access
before you can use the phone as a key.
Key Card
Tesla provides you with two Model 3 key
cards, designed to fit in your wallet. Model 3
reads a key card only when placed within very
close proximity (an inch or two) to one of its
card readers. Card readers are located on the
driver's side door pillar and on the center
console.
To use a key card to unlock or lock Model 3,
position the card as illustrated and tap it
against the card reader located below the
Autopilot camera on the driver's side door
pillar. When Model 3 detects the key card, the
exterior lights flash, the mirrors unfold or fold
(if equipped with the premium package and
Fold Mirrors is on), and the doors unlock or
lock.
Note: You may need to physically touch the
driver's side door pillar with the key card, and
you may need to hold it against the
transmitter for one or two seconds.
Once inside, power up Model 3 by pressing the
brake pedal within two minutes of scanning
the key card (see Starting and Powering O
on page 44). If you wait longer than two
minutes, you must re-authenticate by placing
the key card near the card reader located
behind the cup holders on the center console.
When your key card is detected, your two
minute authentication period restarts.
Note: You must position the key card within an
inch or two of a card reader to allow Model 3
to read it. You may need to physically touch
the center console or driver's side door pillar
with the key card, and you may need to hold it
against the transmitter for one or two
seconds.
Note: Walk-Away Door Lock operates only
when using an authenticated phone. When
you walk away from Model 3 carrying your key
card, Model 3 does not automatically unlock/
lock, even if this feature is turned on (see
Walk-Away Door Lock on page 13).
Caution:
you in your purse or wallet to use as a
backup in case your authenticated phone
has a dead battery, or is lost or stolen.
Always carry your key card with
Key fob
If you have purchased the key fob accessory
(available for purchase from Tesla stores or
online at www.tesla.com/shop), you can
quickly familiarize yourself with this key by
thinking of it as a miniature version of Model 3,
with the Tesla badge representing the front.
The key has three buttons that feel like softer
areas on the surface.
8 Model 3 Owner's Manual
1. Front trunk - Double-click to open the
front trunk.
2. Lock/Unlock All - Single-click to lock
doors and trunks (all doors and trunks
must be closed). Double-click to unlock
doors and trunks.
3. Trunk - Double-click to open the rear
trunk. Hold down for one to two seconds
to open the charge port door.
Once inside, power up Model 3 by pressing the
brake pedal within two minutes of pressing
the unlock button on the key fob (see Starting
and Powering O on page 44). If you wait
longer than two minutes, you must press the
unlock button again, or place the key fob near
the card reader located behind the cup
holders on the center console. When your key
fob is detected, the two minute authentication
period restarts.
When approaching or leaving Model 3
carrying the key fob, you do not need to point
the key fob at Model 3 as you press a button,
but you must be within operating range.
Radio equipment on a similar frequency can
aect the key. If this happens, move the key at
least one foot (30 cm) away from other
electronic devices (phone, laptop, etc).
If the key fob does not work (for example, its
battery is dead), you can touch it's flat side
against the card reader on the driver's side
door pillar (like the key card). Instructions for
changing the battery are provided below.
Note: Walk-Away Door Lock operates only
when using an authenticated phone. When
you walk away from Model 3 carrying your key
fob, Model 3 does not automatically unlock/
lock, even if this feature is turned on (see
Walk-Away Door Lock on page 13).
Keys
Note:
You can use the same key fob with
multiple Model 3 vehicles provided you
authenticate it (see Managing Keys on page
10). However, key fob works with only one
Model 3 at a time. Therefore, to use a key fob
for a dierent Model 3, touch its flat side
against the card reader on the driver's side
door pillar.
Note: A Model 3 supports up to four dierent
key fobs.
Caution: Protect the key from impact,
high temperatures, and damage from
liquids. Avoid contact with solvents,
waxes and abrasive cleaners.
Replacing the Key Battery
Under normal use, the key fob’s battery lasts
for approximately five years. When the battery
is low, a message displays on the touchscreen.
Follow these steps to replace it:
1. With the key fob placed button side down
on a soft surface, release the bottom
cover.
2. Remove the battery by lifting it away from
the retaining clips.
Opening and Closing 9
Keys
3. Insert the new battery (type CR2032) with
the ‘+’ side facing up.
Caution: Wipe the battery clean
before fitting and avoid touching the
battery's flat surfaces. Finger marks
on the flat surfaces of the battery can
reduce battery life.
4. Holding the cover at an angle, align the
tabs on the widest side of the cover with
the corresponding slots on the key fob,
then press the cover firmly onto the key
until it snaps into place.
Attaching a Lanyard
To attach a lanyard, release the bottom cover
as described above. Place the lanyard over the
pin located between the slots on the widest
side of the key fob. Re-align the cover and
snap into place.
Managing Keys
To display a key list that shows all keys
(phones, key cards, and key fobs) that can
access your Model 3, touch Controls > Locks.
An icon displays next to each key to indicate
whether the key is a phone, key card or key
fob. Use this list to view, add or delete keys. To
add or delete keys, you will need a key card
that has already been authenticated.
To add a new key, touch +, then follow the
onscreen prompts. When complete, the key
list displays the new key. If the key is a phone,
the key list displays the name of the phone. If
the key is a card or key fob, you can customize
its name by touching the associated pencil
icon.
Note: Key fob pairing should be performed
when the key fob is at room temperature.
Pairing may be unsuccessful if the key fob is
cold.
Note: To add a phone, the phone must be
running the Tesla mobile app and connected
to a Tesla account, and Bluetooth must be
enabled. You can also use the mobile app to
add a phone key. For details, see
Authenticated Phone on page 7).
Note: You can use the same key for more than
one Model 3. This prevents you from having to
deal with multiple keys when you switch
vehicles. If you customize the name of an
authenticated key card or key fob on one
Model 3, any other Model 3 to which the key
card or key fob is authenticated also displays
the customized name.
When you no longer want a key to access your
Model 3 (for example, you lost your phone or
key card, etc.), touch its associated trash icon
on the key list, then follow the onscreen
prompts to confirm the deletion. When
complete, the key list no longer includes the
deleted key.
Note: Model 3 requires at least one
authenticated key card at all times. If only one
key card is included on the key list, this key
cannot be deleted.
Note: Model 3 supports up to 19 keys. When
this limit is reached, you must delete a key
before adding a new one.
Mobile App
In addition to using it to authenticate a phone
as your Model 3 key, you can use the mobile
app to communicate with Model 3 remotely
using your iPhone® or Android™ phone. With
this app, you can:
• View the vehicle's estimated range.
• Lock or unlock Model 3 doors and trunks
remotely.
• Check charging progress, stop charging,
and receive notifications when charging is
started, interrupted, almost complete, or
complete.
Note: When Supercharging, additional
notifications alert you when you will be
charged idle fees for parking at a
supercharger after charging is complete.
The idle fees are waived if your vehicle is
moved within five minutes of when the
vehicle finishes charging. See
Supercharger Usage Fees and Idle Fees on
page 126.
• Check the interior temperature and heat
or cool the cabin before driving (even if
it's in a garage).
• Locate Model 3 with directions, or monitor
its movement across a map.
• Flash the exterior lights or honk the horn
to find Model 3 when parked.
• Enable/disable Valet mode.
• Start Model 3 remotely.
• Park or unpark Model 3 using Summon.
• Enable/disable Speed Limit Mode and
receive notifications when the vehicle's
driving speed is within approximately 3
mph (5 km/h) of your selected maximum
speed (see Speed Limit Mode on page
96).
10 Model 3 Owner's Manual
• Support the Model 3 Calendar app by
allowing the mobile app to send your
phone's calendar data to Model 3.
• Receive notifications if the security alarm
is triggered.
• Receive notifications when a software
update is available or scheduled (see
Software Updates on page 119).
• Start software updates from afar.
• Access your Tesla inbox and Loot Box.
• View the odometer, VIN, and current
software version.
Note: To allow the mobile app to communicate
with Model 3, the phone must be connected to
the internet and mobile access must be
enabled (touch Controls > Safety & Security >
Allow Mobile Access on the touchscreen).
Note: If multiple vehicles are linked to the
Tesla Account, you must switch to the Model 3
that you want to access in the mobile app
before the phone can be used as a key.
Note: To take advantage of new and improved
features, download updated versions of the
mobile app as they become available.
Caution: Tesla does not support the use
of third party applications to contact
Model 3.
Note: The above list may not represent an
exhaustive list of the functions available on the
Tesla mobile app. To ensure access to new and
improved features, download updated
versions of the mobile app as they become
available.
Keys
Opening and Closing 11
Doors
Doors
Keyless Locking and Unlocking
Locking and unlocking Model 3 is easy and
convenient. Just carry your authenticated
phone with you. Model 3 recognizes the
presence of an authenticated phone and
automatically unlocks when you press a door
handle, and locks when you leave (see Walk-
Away Door Lock on page 13).
Note: If you don't have your authenticated
phone with you (or if the phone's battery is
dead or its Bluetooth setting is turned o),
place the key card against the driver's side
door pillar to manually unlock or lock Model 3
(see Keys on page 7).
Note: You can also purchase a key fob
accessory (www.tesla.com/shop) which is
similar to a traditional key fob that allows you
to press buttons to lock and unlock Model 3.
Note: Walk-Away Door Lock operates only
when using an authenticated phone. When
you walk away from Model 3 carrying a key
card or the key fob accessory, Model 3 does
not automatically unlock/lock, even if this
feature is turned on (see Walk-Away Door
Lock on page 13).
Using Exterior Door Handles
Use your thumb to push the wide part of the
door handle. The handle pivots toward you,
and you can open the door by pulling the
handle or pulling the edge of the door.
Opening Doors from the Interior
Model 3 doors are electrically powered. To
open a door while sitting inside, press the
button located at the top of the interior door
handle.
Note: To prevent children from opening the
rear doors, turn on child-protection locks (see
Child-Protection Lock on page 13).
In the unlikely situation that Model 3 has no
power, these electrically powered buttons at
the top of the door handles no longer work.
Instead, pull up the manual door release
located in front of the window switches on the
front doors.
The handle retracts automatically.
When a door or trunk is open, the
touchscreen displays the Door Open
indicator light.
12 Model 3 Owner's Manual
Note: Only front doors are equipped with a
manual door release.
Doors
Caution: The manual door release is
designed to be used only in situations
when Model 3 has no power. Whenever
Model 3 has power, use the button
located at the top of the interior door
handle.
Interior Locking and Unlocking
While sitting inside Model 3, you can lock and
unlock all doors and trunks by touching the
lock icon on the touchscreen.
The icon changes to indicate
whether doors are locked or
unlocked.
You can also unlock the doors by pressing the
Park button on the end of the gear selector a
second time. Pressing this button once
engages the Park gear and pressing it again
unlocks the doors.
Walk-Away Door Lock
Doors and trunks can automatically lock
whenever you walk away carrying your
authenticated phone. To turn this feature on or
o, touch Controls > Locks > Walk-Away Door
Lock.
When the doors lock, the exterior lights flash
once and the mirrors fold (if equipped with
the premium package and Fold Mirrors is on).
To also hear a confirmation sound whenever
Model 3 locks, touch Controls > Locks > Lock
Confirmation Sound > ON.
Model 3 does not automatically lock if:
• An authenticated phone is detected inside
Model 3.
• You are not using an authenticated phone
as the key and walk away carrying the key
card or key fob. When using the key card
you must manually lock Model 3 by
tapping the key card against the door
pillar. When using the key fob (sold as an
accessory), you must manually lock Model
3 by pressing the lock button. See Keys on
page 7.
• A door or trunk is not fully closed.
Note: If all doors are closed and Model 3 was
automatically unlocked by your authenticated
phone, walk-away locking is temporarily
suspended for one minute. If you open a door
within this minute, it will not re-lock until all
the doors are closed and you have walked
away with the authenticated phone.
Child-Protection Lock
Model 3 has child-protection locks on the rear
doors to prevent them from being opened
using the interior release buttons. On the
touchscreen, touch Controls > Locks > Child
Lock.
Note: It is recommended that you turn childprotection locks on whenever children are
seated in the rear seats.
Unlock on Park
When you stop Model 3 and engage the Park
gear, you can choose to unlock all doors. To
turn this feature on or o, touch Controls >
Locks > Unlock on Park.
Note: If set to OFF, you can unlock all doors
by pressing the Park button a second time
after engaging the Park gear.
Opening and Closing 13
Windows
Windows
Opening and Closing
Press down on a switch to lower the
associated window. Window switches operate
at two levels:
• To lower a window fully, press the switch
all the way down and immediately release.
• To lower a window partially, press the
switch gently and release when the
window is where you want it.
Locking Rear Windows
To prevent passengers from using the rear
window switches, touch Controls > Quick
Controls > Window Lock. To unlock the rear
windows, touch Window Lock again.
Warning: To ensure safety, it is
recommended that you lock the rear
window switches whenever children are
seated in the rear seats.
Warning: Never leave children unattended
in Model 3.
Similarly, pull a switch to raise the associated
window:
• To raise a window fully, pull the switch all
the way up and immediately release.
• To raise a window partially, pull the switch
gently and release when the window is
where you want it.
Warning:
the driver’s responsibility to ensure that
all occupants, especially children, do not
have any body parts extended through
the window’s opening. Failure to do so
can cause serious injury.
14 Model 3 Owner's Manual
Before closing a window, it is
Rear Trunk
Opening
To open the rear trunk, do one of the following
then pull the rear trunk open:
• Touch the associated OPEN button on the
touchscreen.
• Double-click the rear trunk button on the
keyfob accessory.
• Touch the trunk button on the mobile app.
• With Model 3 unlocked, press the switch
located under the rear trunk's exterior
handle.
Rear Trunk
kg) in the lower trunk compartment.
Doing so can cause damage.
Closing
To close the rear trunk, push it downward until
you hear the latch click into place.
Note: Model 3 is equipped with pull cups to
assist with lowering the rear trunk.
Warning: Before driving, ensure that the
trunk is securely latched in the fullyclosed position by lifting up on the
bottom edge and confirming there is no
movement.
Accessing the Cargo Area
To access the cargo area inside the rear trunk,
pull up the strap at the rear of the cargo cover.
You can then fold the cargo cover forward or
remove it from Model 3.
When a door or trunk is open, the
touchscreen displays the Door Open
indicator light.
To open the trunk from inside Model 3 in the
unlikely situation that Model 3 has no power,
see Interior Emergency Trunk Release on page
16.
Warning:
rear trunk, it is important to check that
the area around the trunk is free of
obstacles (people and objects).
Load Limits
Secure all cargo before moving Model 3, and
place heavy cargo in the lower trunk
compartment.
Caution:
more than 130 lbs (60 kg) on the rear
load floor (above the lower trunk
compartment) or more than 285 lbs (130
Opening and Closing 15
Before opening or closing the
To avoid damage, never load
Caution:
(60 kg) on the rear load floor (above the
lower trunk compartment) or more than
285 lbs (130 kg) in the lower trunk
compartment. Doing so can cause
damage.
Never load more than 130 lbs
Rear Trunk
Interior Emergency Trunk Release
An illuminated mechanical release located
inside the rear trunk allows you to open the
rear trunk from the inside if Model 3 has no
electrical power. This mechanical release also
allows a person locked inside to get out.
1. Firmly push the illuminated button in the
direction of the arrow to release the latch.
2. Push the rear trunk open.
Note: The button glows for several hours after
a brief exposure to ambient light.
Warning: Do not allow children to play
inside the trunk or become locked inside.
An unrestrained child could suer serious
injury or death in a crash. A child could
suer heat exhaustion if trapped in the
vehicle, especially without climate control
on.
16 Model 3 Owner's Manual
Front Trunk
Opening
To open the front trunk:
1. Ensure that the area around the hood is
free of obstacles.
2. Touch the associated OPEN button on the
touchscreen, double-click the front trunk
button on the keyfob accessory, or touch
the front trunk button on the mobile app.
3. Pull the hood up.
Front Trunk
When a door or trunk is open, the
touchscreen displays the Door Open
indicator light.
Warning: Before opening or closing the
hood, it is important to check that the
area around the hood is free of obstacles
(people and objects). Failure to do so
may result in damage or serious injury.
Note: The front trunk locks whenever closed
and you lock Model 3 using the touchscreen,
mobile app, key card, you leave Model 3
carrying your authenticated phone (if WalkAway Door Lock is turned on), or if Valet
mode is active (see Valet Mode on page 39).
Closing
The Model 3 hood is not heavy enough to
latch under its own weight and applying
pressure on the front edge or center of the
hood can cause damage.
To properly close the hood:
1. Lower the hood until the striker touches
the latches.
2. Place both hands on the front of the hood
in the areas shown (in green), then press
down firmly to engage the latches.
3. Carefully try to lift the front edge of the
hood to ensure that it is fully closed.
Caution:
• Apply pressure only to the green
• Do not close the hood with one hand.
• Do not apply pressure to the front
• Do not slam or drop the hood.
Warning: Before driving, you must ensure
that the hood is securely latched in the
fully closed position by carefully trying to
lift the front edge of the hood upward
and confirming there is no movement.
To prevent damage:
areas shown. Applying pressure to
the red areas can cause damage.
Doing so applies concentrated force
in one area and can result in a dent or
crease.
edge of the hood. Doing so can
crease the edge.
Interior Emergency Release
An illuminated interior release button inside
the front trunk allows a person locked inside
to get out.
Opening and Closing 17
Front Trunk
Press the interior release button to open the
front trunk, then push up on the hood.
Note: The interior release button glows
following a brief exposure to ambient light.
Warning: People should never climb
inside the front trunk. Never shut the
front trunk when a person is inside.
Warning: Care should be taken to ensure
that objects inside the front trunk do not
bump against the release button, causing
the trunk to accidentally open.
Opening with No Power
In the unlikely event that Model 3 has no 12V
power, you will be unable to open the front
trunk using the touchscreen or mobile app. To
open the front trunk in this situation:
1. Locate an external 12V power supply
(such as a portable jump starter).
2. Release the tow eye cover by pressing
firmly on the top right perimeter of the
cover until it pivots inward, then gently
pulling the raised section toward you.
Note: The tow eye cover is connected to
the vehicle's red positive (+) terminal.
3. Pull the two wires out of the tow eye
opening to expose both terminals.
4. Connect the 12V power supply's red
positive (+) cable to the red positive (+)
terminal.
5. Connect the 12V power supply's black
negative (-) cable to the black negative (-)
terminal.
Note: Applying external 12V power to
these terminals only releases the hood
latches. You cannot charge the 12V
battery using these terminals.
6. Turn on the external power supply (refer
to the manufacturer’s instructions). The
hood latches are immediately released
and you can now open the hood to access
the front trunk area.
7. Disconnect both cables, beginning with
the black negative (-) cable.
18 Model 3 Owner's Manual
8. If pulling Model 3 onto a flatbed truck, do
not replace the tow eye cover yet.
Otherwise, replace the tow eye cover by
inserting the wires into the tow eye
opening and aligning the tow eye cover
into position and turning it into place.
Front Trunk
Opening and Closing 19
Interior Storage and Electronics
Interior Storage and Electronics
Glovebox
To open the glovebox, touch Controls >
Glovebox on the bottom corner of the
touchscreen. The glovebox automatically
opens and its light turns on.
To close the glovebox, push it upward until it
clicks into its closed position.
Note: If you leave the glovebox open for
approximately five minutes, its light
automatically turns o.
Note: The glovebox locks whenever closed
and you lock Model 3 using the mobile app,
key card, you leave Model 3 carrying your
authenticated phone (if Walk-Away Door Lock
is turned on), or if Valet mode is active (see
Valet Mode on page 39). It does not lock
when Model 3 is locked by touching the lock
icon on the touchscreen.
Warning:
glovebox closed to prevent injury to a
passenger if a collision or sudden stop
occurs.
When driving, keep the
To open the main storage compartment, pull
its cover upward.
Open the other storage compartment or
access the phone dock by pressing firmly near
the cover's opening edge. To close a storage
compartment, push its cover down gently.
USB Ports - Premium Package
Model 3 has two USB ports located under the
phone dock in the front compartment of the
center console. These ports can be used to
connect and charge your phone as well as
play audio files stored on the phone or on a
USB device (see Playing Media from Devices
on page 109).
Lift the phone dock upward to access the USB
ports. You can route the USB cable through
the openings in the phone dock.
Center Console - Premium Package
In addition to housing an RFID transmitter that
reads the key card (see Key Card on page 8),
the center console includes cup holders, two
storage compartments, and a phone dock for
two phones (or other devices).
20 Model 3 Owner's Manual
Two additional USB ports are located in the
rear of the center console. Passengers in the
rear seats can use these ports to charge their
USB-connected devices. Media Player does
not communicate with the rear USB ports.
Interior Storage and Electronics
Note: Always use USB 2.0 compliant cables
when connecting devices to the USB ports.
Using non-compliant cables can result in
slower charging and, if plugged into either of
the front two ports, can result in potential
connection problems when trying to access
media files on the device.
Note: Do not connect multiple devices using a
USB hub. This can prevent connected devices
from charging or from being recognized by
Media Player.
12V Power Socket
Your Model 3 has a power socket located in
the center console's rear compartment. Power
is available whenever the touchscreen is
powered on.
from the accessory, unplug the accessory
from the 12V power socket immediately.
Caution: Do not attempt to jump start
Model 3 using the 12V power socket.
Doing so can result in damage.
Rear Console
Your Model 3 has a rear console integrated in
the center of the rear seat back. Pull the
console down to access the rear cup holders,
or use it as an armrest.
Coat Hangers
Your Model 3 has a coat hanger on each side
of the vehicle in the rear row. Push the coat
hanger to release it. Push it again to retract it.
The power socket is suitable for accessories
requiring up to 12A continuous draw (16A
peak).
Warning:
accessory’s connector can become hot.
Warning: To prevent excessive
interference with the vehicle’s electronics,
Tesla recommends that you do not plug
any non-Tesla accessories, including
power inverters, into the 12V power
socket. However, if you do use a non-Tesla
accessory and notice any malfunctions or
unexpected behavior, such as indicator
lights, alert messages, or excessive heat
Opening and Closing 21
The power socket and an
Additional Interior Storage Areas
Your Model 3 has these additional storage
areas:
• Storage compartments are located below
the armrest on the door panels.
• If equipped with the premium package,
storage pockets are located at the back of
the front seats.
Interior Storage and Electronics
Cabin Camera
Model 3 is equipped with a camera in the
cabin. The camera is not currently active, but
might be used in potential future features
which could be added to Model 3 with
software releases.
Keep the camera lens clean, and free of
obstructions. Remove any buildup of dirt or
dust by occasionally wiping the camera lens
with a soft damp cloth.
Caution: Do not use chemical-based or
abrasive cleaners. Doing so can damage
the surface of the camera lens.
22 Model 3 Owner's Manual
Front and Rear Seats
Seating and Safety Restraints
Front and Rear Seats
Correct Driving Position
The seat, head support, seat belt and airbags
work together to maximize your safety. Using
these correctly ensures greater protection.
Position the seat so you can wear the seat belt
correctly, while being as far away from the
front airbag as possible:
1. Sit upright with both feet on the floor and
the seat back reclined no more than 30
degrees.
2. Make sure you can easily reach the pedals
and that your arms are slightly bent when
holding the steering wheel. Your chest
should be at least 10 inches (25 cm) from
the center of the airbag cover.
3. Place the shoulder section of the seat belt
mid-way between your neck and your
shoulder. Fit the lap section of the belt
tightly across your hips, not across your
stomach.
Model 3 seats include integrated head
supports that cannot be adjusted or removed.
Adjusting the Front Seats Premium Package
1. Move seat forward/backward and adjust
the seat’s height and tilt angle up/down.
2. Adjust backrest.
3. Adjust lumbar support.
Warning:
Before adjusting a front seat,
check that the area around the seat is
free of obstacles (people and objects).
Warning: Do not adjust seats while
driving. Doing so increases the risk of a
collision.
Warning: Riding in a moving vehicle with
the seat back reclined can result in
serious injuries in a collision, as you could
slide under the lap belt or be propelled
into the seat belt. Ensure your seat back
is reclined no more than 30 degrees when
the vehicle is moving.
Seating and Safety Restraints 23
Front and Rear Seats
Folding Rear Seats
Model 3 has a split rear seat that can fold
forward.
Before folding, remove items from the seats
and the rear footwell. To allow the rear seat
backs to fold completely flat, you may need to
move the front seats forward.
To fold a rear seat, pull the corresponding
lever and fold the seat forward.
Warning:
are locked in their upright position.
Failure to do so increases the risk of
injury.
Always ensure the seat backs
Head Supports
The front seats and outer rear seats include
integrated head supports that are not
adjustable.
The rear center seat includes an adjustable
head support that can be raised, lowered, or
removed. The head support should always be
raised and locked into position (so that the
center is aligned with the center of the ears)
when occupied by a passenger that is not in a
child safety seat.
The head support in the rear center seat
should always be lowered when a seat belt
retained child safety seat is installed. See
Raising/Lowering the Rear Center Head
Support on page 24.
Warning:
are positioned correctly before sitting in,
or operating, Model 3 to minimize the risk
of severe injury or death in the event of a
collision.
Ensure that all head supports
Raising/Lowering the Rear Center Head Support
To raise the head support, lift it until you hear
Raising Rear Seats
Before raising a rear seat, make sure that the
seat belts are not trapped behind the
backrest.
Pull the seat back upward until it locks into
place.
To confirm that the seat back is locked in the
upright position, try pulling it forward.
24 Model 3 Owner's Manual
it click into place. Push down on the head
support to ensure that it is secure.
To lower the head support, press and hold the
button on the outer base of the right post and
press the head support down.
Removing/Installing the Rear Center Head Support
To remove the head support:
1. Raise the head support as described
above.
2. Press and hold the button on the outer
base of the right post.
3. Insert a short, flat object (such as a small
flat-head screwdriver) into the opening on
the inside base of the left post and pull
the head support upward.
Front and Rear Seats
Seat Heaters
The front and rear seats are equipped with
heating pads that operate at three levels from
3 (highest) to 1 (lowest). To operate the seat
heaters, see Climate Controls on page 98.
Warning: To avoid burns resulting from
prolonged use, individuals who have
peripheral neuropathy, or whose capacity
to feel pain is limited because of diabetes,
age, neurological injury, or some other
condition, should exercise caution when
using the climate control system and seat
heaters.
Seat Covers
Warning: Do not use seat covers in Model
3. Doing so could restrict deployment of
the seat-mounted side air bags if a
collision occurs. It can also reduce the
accuracy of the occupant detection
system.
To re-install the head support:
1. With the front of the head support facing
forward, insert both posts into the
corresponding holes on the seat back.
2. Press down on the head support until it
clicks into place.
3. Pull up on the head support to ensure that
it is secure.
Warning:
support is correctly installed before
seating an occupant in the rear center
seat. Failure to do so increases the
risk of injury or death if a collision
occurs.
Seating and Safety Restraints 25
Ensure that the head
Seat Belts
Seat Belts
Wearing Seat Belts
Using seat belts and child safety seats is the
most eective way to protect occupants if a
collision occurs. Therefore, wearing a seat belt
is required by law in most jurisdictions.
Both the driver and passenger seats are
equipped with three-point inertia reel seat
belts. Inertia reel belts are automatically
tensioned to allow occupants to move
comfortably during normal driving conditions.
To securely hold child safety seats, all
passenger seating positions are equipped with
an automatic locking retractor (ALR) that, by
pulling the seat belt beyond the length
needed for a typical adult occupant, locks the
belt into place until the seat belt is unbuckled
(see Installing Seat Belt Retained Child Seats).
The seat belt reel automatically locks to
prevent movement of occupants if Model 3
experiences a force associated with hard
acceleration, braking, cornering, or an impact
in a collision.
To Fasten a Belt
1. Ensure correct positioning of the seat (see
Correct Driving Position on page 23).
2. Draw the belt out smoothly, ensuring the
belt lays flat across the pelvis, chest and
mid-point of your collar bone, between
the neck and shoulder.
3. Insert the latch plate into the buckle and
press together until you hear a click
indicating it is locked in place.
Seat Belt Reminders
The seat belt reminder on the
touchscreen alerts you if a seat belt
for an occupied seat is not fastened.
If the belt remains unfastened, the
reminder flashes and an intermittent
chime sounds. If all occupants are
buckled up and the reminder stays
on, re-fasten seat belts to ensure
they are correctly latched. Also
remove any heavy objects (such as a
briefcase) from an unoccupied seat.
If the reminder light continues to
stay on, contact Tesla.
You can temporarily mute a seat belt reminder
associated with a rear seating position. This is
useful in situations when you are carrying an
object in a rear seat that triggers the seat belt
reminder alert. To mute the reminder, touch
the associated seat on the seat belt reminder
card that displays on the touchscreen when a
seat belt reminder alert is active. When a
reminder is muted, the seat belt reminder icon
is replaced by a seat icon. Touch the seat
again to unmute the reminder. The reminder is
disabled for the current drive only.
Warning:
Seat belts must be worn by
passengers in all seating positions. Do not
disable a seat belt reminder when the
seating position is occupied by a
passenger.
4. Pull the belt to check that it is securely
fastened.
5. Pull the diagonal part of the belt toward
the reel to remove excess slack.
To Adjust the Shoulder Anchor Height
Model 3 is equipped with an adjustable
shoulder anchor for each front seat to ensure
that the seat belt is positioned correctly. The
seat belt should lay flat across the mid-point
of your collar bone while in the correct driving
position (see Correct Driving Position on page
23). Adjust the height of the shoulder anchor
if the seat belt is not positioned correctly:
1. Press and hold the button on the shoulder
anchor to release the locking mechanism.
2. While holding the button, move the
shoulder anchor up or down as necessary
so that the seat belt is positioned
correctly.
26 Model 3 Owner's Manual
Seat Belts
3. Release the button on the shoulder anchor
so that it locks into position.
4. Without pressing the button, pull on the
seat belt webbing and attempt to move
the shoulder anchor downwards to check
that it is locked into position.
Warning: Ensure that the seat belt is
positioned correctly and that the
shoulder anchor is locked into position
before driving. Riding in a moving vehicle
with the seat belt positioned incorrectly
or with the shoulder anchor not locked
into position can reduce the eectiveness
of the seat belt in a collision.
To Release a Belt
Hold the belt near the buckle to prevent the
belt from retracting too quickly, then press the
button on the buckle. The belt retracts
automatically. Ensure there is no obstruction
that prevents the belt from fully retracting.
The belt should not hang loose. If a seat belt
does not fully retract, contact Tesla.
Wearing Seat Belts When Pregnant
Do not put the lap or shoulder sections of the
seat belt over the abdominal area. Wear the
lap section of the belt as low as possible
across the hips, not the waist. Position the
shoulder portion of the belt between the
breasts and to the side of the abdomen.
Consult your doctor for specific guidance.
Seat Belt Pre-tensioners
The front seat belts are equipped with
pre‑tensioners that work in conjunction with
the airbags in a severe frontal collision. The
pre‑tensioners automatically retract both the
seat belt anchor and the seat belt webbing,
reducing slack in both the lap and diagonal
portions of the belts, resulting in reduced
forward movement of the occupant.
The rear outboard seats are equipped with
shoulder pre-tensioners to retract the seat belt
webbing to reduce forward movement of the
occupant.
If the pre-tensioners and airbags did not
activate in an impact, this does not mean they
malfunctioned. It usually means that the
strength or type of force needed to activate
them was not present.
Warning:
tensioners have been activated, they must
be replaced. After any collision, have the
airbags, seat belt pre-tensioners and any
associated components checked and, if
necessary, replaced.
Once the seat belt pre-
Testing Seat Belts
To confirm that seat belts are operating
correctly, perform these three simple checks
on each seat belt.
1. With the seat belt fastened, give the
webbing nearest the buckle a quick pull.
Warning:
you and the seat belt to cushion the
impact in the event of a collision.
Seating and Safety Restraints 27
Never place anything between
The buckle should remain securely locked.
Seat Belts
2. With the belt unfastened, unreel the
webbing to its limit. Check that unreeling
is free from snags, and visually check the
webbing for wear. Allow the webbing to
retract, checking that retraction is smooth
and complete.
3. With the webbing half unreeled, hold the
tongue plate and pull forward quickly. The
mechanism should lock automatically and
prevent further unreeling.
If a seat belt fails any of these tests, contact
Tesla immediately.
For information about cleaning seat belts, see
Seat Belts on page 136.
Seat Belt Warnings
Warning: Seat belts should be worn by all
occupants at all times, even if driving for
a very short distance. Failure to do so
increases the risk of injury or death if a
collision occurs.
Warning: Secure small children in a
suitable child safety seat (see Child
Safety Seats). Always follow the child
safety seat manufacturer's instructions
when installing.
Warning: Ensure that all seat belts are
worn correctly. An improperly worn seat
belt increases the risk of injury or death if
a collision occurs.
Warning: Do not wear seat belts over
hard, fragile or sharp items in clothing,
such as pens, keys, eyeglasses, etc. The
pressure from the seat belt on such items
can cause injury.
Warning: Seat belts should not be worn
with any part of the strap twisted.
Warning: Each seat belt assembly must
be used by one occupant only. It is
dangerous to put a seat belt around a
child being carried on an occupant’s lap.
Warning: Seat belts that have been worn
in a collision must be inspected or
replaced by Tesla, even if damage to the
assembly is not obvious.
Warning: Seat belts that show signs of
wear (such as fraying), or have been cut
or damaged in any way, must be replaced
by Tesla.
Warning: Avoid contaminating a seat
belt’s components with any chemicals,
liquids, grit, dirt or cleaning products. If a
seat belt fails to retract or latch into the
buckle, it must be replaced immediately.
Contact Tesla.
Warning: Do not make modifications or
additions that can prevent a seat belt
mechanism from taking up slack, or that
can prevent a seat belt from being
adjusted to remove slack. A slack belt
greatly reduces occupant protection.
Warning: Do not make modifications that
can interfere with the operation of a seat
belt, or that can cause a seat belt to
become inoperable.
Warning: When seat belts are not in use,
they should be fully retracted and not
hanging loose. If a seat belt does not fully
retract, contact Tesla.
28 Model 3 Owner's Manual
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