Page 1
MODEL 3
OWNER'S MANUAL
Software version: 2022.20
North America
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YOUR OWNER'S MANUAL
For the latest and greatest information that is customized to your vehicle, view the Owner’s Manual on your vehicle’s
touchscreen by touching Controls > Service > Owner's Manual. The information is specific to your vehicle depending on
the features you purchased, vehicle
that is provided by Tesla elsewhere is updated as necessary and may not contain information unique to your vehicle.
configuration, market region and software version. In contrast, owner information
RELEASE NOTES
Information about new features is displayed on the touchscreen after a software update, and can be viewed at any time
by touching
conflicts with information in the Release Notes, the Release Notes take precedence.
Controls > Software > Release Notes. If the content in the Owner's Manual on how to use your vehicle
ILLUSTRATIONS AND PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
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
All specifications and descriptions contained in this document are verified to be accurate at the time of printing.
However, because continuous improvement is a goal at Tesla, we reserve the right to make product modifications at any
time. To communicate any inaccuracies or omissions in this document, please send an email to:
[email protected].
dierent.
SAFETY INFORMATION
You can find safety information in your Model 3 Owner's Manual on the touchscreen.
For detailed information about your Model 3, go to the Tesla website for your region, log on to your Tesla account, or
sign up to get an account.
If you have any questions or concerns about your Model 3, call 1-877-79TESLA (1-877-798-3752).
© 2012-2022 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. Shown here are
trademarks or registered trademarks of Tesla, Inc. in the United States and other countries:
Page 3
Contents
Overview................................................................ 2
Exterior Overview............................................................................2
Interior Overview.............................................................................3
Touchscreen Overview.................................................................. 4
Opening and Closing.........................................7
Keys.......................................................................................................7
Doors....................................................................................................11
Windows............................................................................................13
Rear Trunk.........................................................................................14
Front Trunk.......................................................................................16
Interior Storage and Electronics.............................................. 19
Seating and Safety Restraints..................... 23
Front and Rear Seats...................................................................23
Seat Belts......................................................................................... 27
Child Safety Seats........................................................................ 30
Airbags..............................................................................................36
Driving.................................................................. 43
Driver Profiles.................................................................................43
Steering Wheel.............................................................................. 45
Mirrors............................................................................................... 47
Starting and Powering O........................................................ 49
Shifting............................................................................................... 51
Lights................................................................................................. 53
Car Status.........................................................................................56
Wipers and Washers....................................................................59
Braking and Stopping.................................................................60
Traction Control.............................................................................64
Park Assist....................................................................................... 65
Vehicle Hold....................................................................................67
Track Mode...................................................................................... 68
Trip Information.............................................................................70
Getting Maximum Range.............................................................71
Rear Facing Camera(s)............................................................... 73
Pedestrian Warning System......................................................74
Cold Weather Best Practices....................................................75
Autopilot..............................................................79
About Autopilot.............................................................................79
Trac-Aware Cruise Control.................................................... 82
Autosteer..........................................................................................87
Navigate on Autopilot.................................................................92
Trac Light and Stop Sign Control.......................................95
Autopark.........................................................................................102
Summon..........................................................................................104
Smart Summon............................................................................ 107
Cabin Camera
.................................................................................117
Using the Touchscreen...................................118
Controls............................................................................................118
Climate Controls.......................................................................... 124
Maps and Navigation..................................................................129
Media................................................................................................ 135
Entertainment............................................................................... 138
Phone and Calendar.................................................................... 141
Voice Commands........................................................................ 144
Security Settings......................................................................... 146
Dashcam and Sentry Mode......................................................147
HomeLink Universal Transceiver............................................150
Connecting to Wi-Fi................................................................... 153
Software Updates........................................................................154
Mobile App.....................................................................................156
Charging.............................................................158
Electric Vehicle Components..................................................158
High Voltage Battery Information........................................ 160
Charging Instructions.................................................................162
Maintenance......................................................167
Maintenance...................................................................................167
Tire Care and Maintenance...................................................... 169
Cleaning...........................................................................................175
Wiper Blades and Washer Jets.............................................. 178
Fluid Reservoirs............................................................................179
Jacking and Lifting.......................................................................181
Parts and Accessories................................................................182
Specifications................................................... 187
Identification Labels................................................................... 187
Vehicle Loading............................................................................188
Dimensions......................................................................................191
Subsystems....................................................................................193
Wheels and Tires......................................................................... 196
Roadside Assistance.................................... 203
Contacting Tesla Roadside Assistance.............................. 203
Instructions for Transporters.................................................204
Consumer Information.................................208
About this Owner Information..............................................208
Disclaimers....................................................................................209
Reporting Safety Defects.......................................................... 211
Radio Regulatory Compliance................................................212
Troubleshooting Alerts..............................................................214
Active Safety Features.................................. 110
Lane Assist......................................................................................110
Collision Avoidance Assist.........................................................113
Speed Assist...................................................................................116
Index.................................................................... 261
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Exterior Overview
Exterior lights (Lights on page 53)
1.
Autopilot camera (About Autopilot on page 79)
2.
Front door handle (Using Exterior Door Handles on page 11)
3.
Key card sensor (Keys on page 7), Autopilot camera (About Autopilot on page 79)
4.
Rear door handle (Using Exterior Door Handles on page 11)
5.
Charge port (Charging Instructions on page 162)
6.
Autopilot cameras (About Autopilot on page 79)
7.
Exterior mirrors (Mirrors on page 47)
8.
Radar sensor, if equipped (hidden from view) (About Autopilot on page 79)
9.
10. Hood/front trunk (Front Trunk on page 16)
11. Tow eye cover (Instructions for Transporters on page 204)
12. Wheels and tires (Wheels and Tires on page 196)
Rear view camera (Rear Facing Camera(s) on page 73)
13.
Rear trunk (Rear Trunk on page 14)
14.
2 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 5
Interior Overview
Door open button (Opening Doors from the Interior on page 11)
1.
Turn signal stalk (High Beam Headlights on page 54), Turn Signals on page 54, and Windshield Washers on
2.
page 59)
Horn (Horn on page 45)
3.
Drive stalk (How to Shift on page 51, Trac-Aware Cruise Control on page 82, Autosteer on page 87)
4.
Touchscreen (Touchscreen Overview on page 4)
5.
Driver dome light (Lights on page 53)
6.
Cabin camera (Cabin Camera on page 117)
7.
Hazard warning flashers (Hazard Warning Flashers on page 55)
8.
Passenger dome light (Lights on page 53)
9.
Climate control vent (see Climate Controls on page 124)
10.
Power window switches (Windows on page 13)
11.
Manual door release (Opening Doors from the Interior on page 11)
12.
Left scroll button (Scroll Buttons on page 45)
13.
Brake pedal (Braking and Stopping on page 60)
14.
15. Accelerator pedal (Regenerative Braking on page 61)
16. Right scroll button (Scroll Buttons on page 45)
Center console (Interior Storage and Electronics on page 19)
17.
Glovebox (Glovebox on page 19)
18.
3Overview
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Touchscreen Overview
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.
Use the touchscreen to control many features that, in traditional cars, are controlled using physical buttons (for
example, adjusting the cabin heating and air conditioning, headlights, etc.). You also use the touchscreen to control
media, navigate, use entertainment features, and customize
to common touchscreen controls, use voice commands (see Voice Commands on page 144). The main component
of the touchscreen is the map area. Other main components are shown here:
NOTE: Illustrations are provided to improve conceptual understanding only. Depending on vehicle options, software
version, market region and regional and language settings, the details displayed on the screen will dier.
Model 3 to suit your preferences. For hands-free access
Status bar: This area on the top of the touchscreen displays the time of day, the outside temperature, and the
1.
following icons:
Touch to lock/unlock all doors and trunks.
Displays on the touchscreen status bar only when
within range, and the touchscreen is not already displaying the HomeLink screen or popup. See
HomeLink Universal Transceiver on page 150.
4 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Model 3 detects a programmed HomeLink
Page 7
Touchscreen Overview
Displays on the touchscreen status bar only when Model 3 is parked. Add, configure (including
Valet Mode and Use Easy Entry), or quickly switch driver profiles. Driver profiles can also be
accessed from the top of any Controls screen. See Driver Profiles on page 43.
Available when Model 3 is parked, touch to manually turn Sentry Mode on or o. To automatically
turn Sentry Mode on every time you leave your vehicle, enable the setting from Controls > Safety
> Sentry Mode.
NOTE: For some vehicles manufactured after approximately November 1, 2021, the center console
USB ports may only support charging devices. Use the USB port inside the glove box for all other
functions.
Displays when Model 3 is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Displays when Model 3 cellular connectivity is very low or unavailable. Touch this icon for quick
access to Wi-Fi settings.
Status of the front passenger airbag (see Airbags on page 36).
Navigation: Change the orientation of the map, find or navigate to a destination, and change navigation settings
2.
(see Maps and Navigation on page 129).
Car status: This area dynamically displays the current status of Model 3 as you drive, park, open doors, turn lights
3.
on, etc. Monitor this area when driving as it displays important information such as driving speed and warning
messages (see
When full self-driving is enabled (if equipped), the car status area displays visualizations of the road and your
vehicle's surroundings. You can expand/condense the visualization by dragging the car status area from side to
side. Expanding the visualization displays more details about the roadway and its surroundings, including road
markings, stop lights, and objects (such as trash cans and poles).
Controls: Control various features and adjust settings to customize your Model 3 (see Controls on page 118).
4.
Climate controls (driver): Use the left and right arrows to decrease/increase cabin temperature. Touch Split on
5.
the popup to display separate controls for the driver and passenger. Touch the temperature icon to customize
climate control settings (see Climate Controls on page 124). The passenger climate controls display when
temperature controls have been Split to provide separate controls for the driver and passenger.
My Apps: For one-touch access to frequently used apps and controls, you can choose what displays here. See
6.
Customizing My Apps on page 6.
7. App Launcher: Touch the app launcher to open the app tray. Then touch any app to open it. The app you choose
displays on top of the map. To close an app, drag it downward.
8. Recent App(s): Displays the most recently used app(s). The number of recent apps displayed here depends on
how many apps have been added to
most recent app displays.
9. Volume Control: Controls the volume of media player and phone calls (see Volume Controls on page 135). The
volume of navigation instructions is controlled separately (see Maps and Navigation on page 129).
Car Status on page 56). When the car is in Park, you can open the trunks or charge port door.
My Apps. If you add the maximum number of apps to My Apps, only the
Popup messages appear at the bottom of the touchscreen. For example, a seat belt reminder appears if a seat belt is
unfastened in an occupied seat, an alert appears to notify you of an incoming phone call, a text message appears
(when applicable), and voice commands appear when in use. If applicable, touch options from these popup
messages (for example, accept/decline a phone call, choose an option from the headlight menu, etc.). To dismiss a
popup message, swipe it downward.
5Overview
Page 8
Touchscreen Overview
Customizing My Apps
For one-touch access to commonly used apps and controls, you can customize what displays in the My Apps area on
the touchscreen's bottom bar:
Enter customization mode by touching and holding any app or control in the My Apps area. If this area is empty,
1.
touch the App Launcher.
2. Simply drag any app or control from the app tray onto the My Apps area in the bottom bar.
NOTE: Seat heaters selected from the app tray appear next to the temperature, instead of in the My Apps area.
NOTE: Controls (for example, wipers, defrosters and seat heaters) appear in the app tray only when you enter
customization mode by touching and holding an app.
NOTE: When you've added the maximum number of apps or controls to My Apps, adding an additional app removes
the rightmost app.
NOTE: Remove an app or control from the My Apps area by touching and holding, then touching its associated "X".
6 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
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Keys
Three Types of Keys
Model 3 supports three types of keys:
• Phone key - You can set up your personal phone as a
"phone key" that communicates with Model 3 using
Bluetooth. A phone key supports automatic locking
and unlocking.
Key card - Tesla provides a key card that
•
communicates with
frequency identification (RFID) signals. The key card
is used to "authenticate" phone keys to work with
Model 3 and to add or remove other key cards, phone
keys, or key fobs. Unlike the phone key and key fob,
the key card does not support automatic locking and
unlocking. In situations where your phone key has a
dead battery, or is lost or stolen, use your key card to
unlock, drive, and lock
Key fob - The key fob (if equipped) allows you to
•
press buttons to open the front and rear trunks, and
unlock, lock, and drive
supports automatic locking and unlocking, if available
in your region (see Passive Locking and Unlocking on
page 9) and can be used as a backup to your
phone key.
Model 3 using short range radio-
Model 3.
Model 3. The key fob also
◦ Your phone's general Bluetooth settings are
enabled.
◦ Bluetooth is enabled within your phone's settings
for the Tesla mobile app. For example, on your
phone, navigate to Settings, choose the Tesla
mobile app, and ensure the Bluetooth setting is
turned on.
◦ Access to your location is enabled. Open the Tesla
mobile app in your phone's settings and select
Location > Always. For the best experience, keep
the mobile app running in the background.
◦ Allow Mobile Access is enabled on the vehicle
touchscreen (
Access).
NOTE: Model 3 communicates with your phone using
Bluetooth. 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. While sitting inside the vehicle with a key card handy,
open the Tesla mobile app and touch Set Up Phone
Key on the main screen, or navigate to Security > Set
Up Phone Key. Follow the prompts on the mobile app
and vehicle touchscreen to set up your phone key.
Controls > Safety > Allow Mobile
Model 3 supports a total of 19 keys, which can include
phone keys, key cards, and up to four key fobs.
CAUTION:
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.
Remember to bring a key with you
Phone Key
Using your phone as a key is a 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 key, doors automatically lock (provided the
Walk-Away Door Lock feature is turned on; see Walk-
Away Door Lock on page 12).
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.
Log into the Tesla mobile app using your Tesla
2.
account username and password.
NOTE: You must remain logged in to your Tesla
account to use your phone to access Model 3.
NOTE: If multiple vehicles are linked to your Tesla
account, you must ensure that the vehicle you want
the mobile app to access is currently selected on the
mobile app.
3. Ensure:
To view a list of keys that can currently access Model 3,
or to remove a phone key, touch Controls > Locks (see
Managing Keys on page 10).
Model 3 can connect to three phone keys
simultaneously. Therefore, if more than three phone keys
are detected and you want to authenticate or pair a
dierent phone, move the other connected phone key(s)
out of range or turn o its Bluetooth setting.
Once a phone has been authenticated, it no longer
requires an internet connection to be used as a phone
key for Model 3. However, to use the phone hands-free,
access your phone's contacts, play media from it, etc.,
you must also pair it and connect it as a Bluetooth
device (see
Pairing a Bluetooth Phone on page 141).
Key Card
Tesla provides you with two Model 3 key cards, designed
fit in your wallet.
to
To use a key card to unlock or lock Model 3, position the
card as shown and tap it against the card reader located
just below the Autopilot camera on the driver's side
door pillar. When
exterior lights flash, the mirrors unfold or fold (if Fold
Mirrors is on), the horn sounds (if Lock Confirmation
Sound is on), and the doors unlock or lock.
NOTE: 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.
Model 3 detects the key card, the
7Opening and Closing
Page 10
Keys
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 49). 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.
Key Fob
If you have purchased the key fob accessory, 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.
NOTE: If enabled, Walk-Away Door Lock (see Walk-
Away Door Lock on page 12) operates only when you
walk away using a phone key or passive key fob. When
you walk away carrying your key card,
automatically unlock/lock.
CAUTION:
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 you in
Model 3 does not
Front trunk - Double-click to unlatch the front trunk.
1.
Lock/Unlock All - Single-click to lock doors and
2.
trunks (all doors and trunks must be closed). Doubleclick to unlock doors and trunks.
Rear trunk - Double-click to unlatch the rear trunk.
3.
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
49). 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 (phones,
laptops, etc.).
In the event that the key fob's battery is dead, you can
still use it to drive the vehicle by scanning the key fob on
the card reader located on the driver's side door pillar
(like the key card).
8 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 11
Keys
Instructions for changing the battery are provided in
Replacing the Key Fob Battery on page 9.
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
fob for a dierent Model 3, touch its flat side against the
card reader on the driver's side door pillar.
NOTE: 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.
Model 3 at a time. Therefore, to use a key
Passive Locking and Unlocking
Due to market region or vehicle configuration, passive
locking and unlocking may not be available for your
vehicle.
NOTE: Only key fobs with the TESLA logo printed on the
flat side support the passive locking and unlocking
feature. Key fobs with the MODEL 3 logo printed on the
flat side cannot passively lock and unlock Model 3.
Locking and unlocking Model 3 with your key fob is
conveniently hands-free. Although you must be carrying
a paired key fob, there is no need to use it.
sensors around the vehicle that can recognize the
presence of a key fob within a range of approximately
six feet (two meters). Therefore, you can keep your key
fob in your pocket or purse and simply pull on the door
handle to unlock. When carrying your key fob with you,
you can also open the trunk without having to use the
key by pressing the rear trunk's exterior door handle. If
Walk-Away Door Lock is enabled, Model 3 automatically
locks when you exit and the key fob is no longer in range
(see Walk-Away Door Lock on page 12). Passive
locking and unlocking is automatically enabled when
you pair your key fob to
Model 3.
Model 3 has
To replace the key fob battery:
1. With the key fob placed button side down on a soft
surface, release the bottom cover, using a small flat-
bladed tool.
Remove the battery by lifting it away from the
2.
retaining clips.
Although you can use the same key fob with multiple
vehicles, it can only be paired to one vehicle at a time.
To activate a paired key fob to a
the flat side onto the driver's side door pillar and click
any button on the key fob to confirm.
NOTE: For increased security, passive locking and
unlocking disables after being stationary for
while within vehicle range when the vehicle is not in use
(for example, you are standing outside your vehicle). In
this situation, you must shake or press a button on the
key fob to re-enable passive locking and unlocking.
dierent vehicle, touch
five minutes
Replacing the Key Fob Battery
Under normal use, the accessory key fob has a battery
that lasts for up to one year, depending on key fob
version and selected vehicle settings. When the battery
is low, a message displays on the touchscreen.
While avoiding touching the battery's flat surfaces,
3.
insert the new battery (type CR2032 ) with the ‘+’
side facing up.
NOTE: 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.
NOTE: CR2032 batteries can be purchased from any
retailer that sells batteries.
Holding the bottom cover at an angle, align the tabs
4.
on the cover with the corresponding slots on the key
fob, then press the cover firmly onto the key fob until
it snaps into place.
9Opening and Closing
Page 12
Keys
5. Test that the key fob works by unlocking and locking
Model 3.
WARNING: Key fob batteries contain a chemical
burn hazard and should not be ingested. The key
fob contains a coin cell battery. If the coin cell
battery is swallowed, it can cause severe internal
burns within two hours and can lead to death.
Keep new and used batteries away from children. If
the battery compartment does not close securely,
stop using the product and keep it away from
children. If you think batteries might have been
swallowed or placed inside any part of the body,
seek immediate medical attention.
Managing Keys
To display a list of all keys (phone keys, 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, key card, or key fob. Use
this list to manage keys that have access to your
3. To add or delete keys, see Adding and Removing Keys
on page 10.
Model 3 supports up to 19 keys. When you reach this
limit, you must delete a key before adding a new one.
Model
When you no longer want a key to access
example, you lost your phone or key card, etc.), follow
these steps to remove it.
1. On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Locks.
2. In the key list, find the key that you would like to
delete and touch its associated trash icon.
3.
When prompted, scan an authenticated key card or
key fob on the card reader 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 or key fob at all times. If only one key card remains
on the key list, you cannot delete it.
Model 3 (for
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 (by touching the pencil icon), any other Model 3
to which the key card or key fob is authenticated also
displays the changed name.
Adding and Removing Keys
To add a new key card or key fob:
NOTE: When adding a key fob, ensure it is at room
temperature. Pairing a key fob that is very cold can be
unsuccessful.
On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Locks then
1.
touch + in the Keys section.
Scan your new key card or key fob on the card reader
2.
located behind the cup holders on the top of the
center console. After the new key card or key fob is
recognized, remove it from the card reader.
Scan a key card or key fob that has already been
3.
paired to the vehicle to confirm new key pairing.
4. When complete, the key list includes the new key.
Touch the associated pencil icon to customize the
name of the key.
To add a new phone key, see Phone Key on page 7.
Removing a key:
10 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
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.
Doors
NOTE: To prevent children from opening the rear doors,
turn on child locks (see Child Locks on page 12).
The handle retracts automatically.
When a door or trunk is open, the
touchscreen displays the Door Open
indicator light.
You can specify that you want to unlock only the driver's
door when you shift into Park by turning on Controls >
Locks > Driver Door Unlock Mode. If o, all doors unlock
when you shift into Park.
NOTE: See Cold Weather Best Practices on page 75 to
ensure door handles function properly in cold weather.
WARNING:
to avoid allowing fingers, jewelry, acrylic nails, etc.
from being pinched by the door or door handle
mechanism. Failure to do so may result in damage
or injury.
While using the door handle, take care
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 and push the door open.
To open a front door in the unlikely situation when
Model 3 has no power, pull up the manual door release
located in front of the window switches.
NOTE: Only the front doors are equipped with a manual
door release.
CAUTION:
be used only in situations when Model 3 has no
power. When Model 3 has power, use the button
located at the top of the interior door handle.
Manual door releases are designed to
11Opening and Closing
Page 14
Doors
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 drive stalk a second time.
Pressing this button once engages Park and pressing it
again unlocks the doors.
Driver Door Unlock Mode
Enabling Controls > Locks > Driver Door Unlock Mode
only unlocks the driver door when you first unlock Model
3.
Walk-Away Door Lock
Doors and trunks can automatically lock when you walk
away carrying your phone key or paired key fob (if
ordered after approximately October 1, 2019). To turn
this feature on or
Away Door Lock.
o, touch Controls > Locks > Walk-
Drive Away Locking
Model 3 automatically locks all doors (including the
trunks) when your driving speed exceeds 5 mph
(8 km/h).
Child Locks
Model 3 has child locks on the rear doors to prevent
them from being opened using the interior release
buttons. On the touchscreen,
Child Lock. You can choose Both to engage the child
lock on both rear doors, or you can choose Left or Right
to engage it on just a specific door.
WARNING:
child locks when children are seated in the rear
seats.
It is recommended that you turn on
touch Controls > Locks >
Unlock on Park
When you stop Model 3 and engage Park, 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
Park.
When the doors lock, the exterior lights flash once and
the mirrors fold (if
confirmation sound when Model 3 locks, touch Controls
> Locks > Lock Confirmation Sound.
Model 3 does not automatically lock if:
You check the Exclude Home checkbox and Model 3
•
is parked at the location you have designated as
Home. For details on how to designate a location as
Home, see
page 131.
A phone key or paired key fob is detected inside
•
Model 3.
A door or trunk is not fully closed.
•
The phone key's Bluetooth setting is turned o.
•
• Key fob or phone key remains within range for five
minutes after all doors have been closed.
NOTE: If Model 3 detects an authenticated key for five
minutes after you exit the vehicle and close all doors,
Walk-Away Lock disables and doors do not lock when
you walk away. In this case, you must manually lock your
vehicle until after your next drive.
Fold Mirrors is on). To also hear a
Home, Work, and Favorite Destinations on
12 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 15
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.
WARNING:
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.
Before closing a window, it is the
Locking Rear Windows
To prevent passengers from using the rear window
switches, touch
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.
Controls > Locks > Window Lock. To
Calibrating Windows
In the unlikely event that a window behaves
unexpectedly (touches the bright molding, fails to open
or close properly, goes down more than normal when
the door opens, etc.), you can calibrate it to potentially
fix the issue.
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.
If a window is left open unintentionally, Model 3 can
send a notification to the mobile app (touch Controls >
Locks > Car Left Open Notification, then choose Doors
& Windows).
You can also enable Close Windows on Lock by
touching Controls > Locks > Close Windows on Lock.
When enabled, your vehicle automatically closes the
windows when
NOTE: See Cold Weather Best Practices on page 75
for information on preparing windows for cold weather.
CAUTION:
automatically lower slightly when you open or
close a door. If you manually raise a window when
the door is open, ensure it is slightly lowered
before closing the door.
Model 3 locks.
To avoid damage, windows
To calibrate a window:
Close the door with the aected window.
1.
Sit in the driver's seat and close the driver door.
2.
Using the window's switch on the driver's door, raise
3.
the aected window until it stalls.
Using the window's switch on the driver's door, lower
4.
the aected window until it stalls.
Repeat step 3 and raise the aected window until it
5.
stalls.
The window should now be calibrated. If the issue
continues after attempting the calibration procedure a
couple times, contact Tesla.
13Opening and Closing
Page 16
Rear Trunk
Opening
To open the rear trunk, ensure Model 3 is in Park, then
do one of the following:
Touch the associated Open button on the
•
touchscreen.
• Double-click the rear trunk button on the key fob.
Touch the rear trunk button on the mobile app.
•
• Press the switch located under the rear trunk's
exterior handle (a valid key must be detected).
Model 3 must be unlocked or detect a key before you
can use the switch to open the
rear trunk.
NOTE:
In emergency situations, you can override the
open or close command for the powered trunk (if
equipped) by grabbing hold and stopping it.
WARNING: Before opening or closing the powered
trunk (if equipped), it is important to check that
the surrounding area is free of obstacles (people
and objects). You must proactively monitor the
trunk to ensure that it does not come into contact
with a person or object. Failure to do so may result
in damage or serious injury.
To open the rear trunk from inside the vehicle in the
unlikely situation that
Emergency Trunk Release on page 15.
Model 3 has no power, see Interior
Closing
To close the powered trunk (if equipped), do one of the
following:
Touch the associated Close button on the
•
touchscreen.
Press the switch located by the rear trunk's exterior
•
handle.
Double-click the rear trunk button on the key fob.
•
When a door or trunk is open, the
touchscreen displays the Door Open
indicator light. The image of your Model 3
on the touchscreen also displays the open
trunk.
You can stop a powered trunk (if equipped) while it is
moving by single-clicking the rear trunk button on the
key fob accessory. Then, when you double-click the
trunk button, it moves again, but in the opposite
direction (provided it was not almost entirely open or
closed when you stopped it). For example, if you singleclick to stop the powered trunk while it is opening, when
you double-click, it closes.
rear
If the powered trunk senses an obstruction when
closing, it stops moving and sounds two chimes.
Remove the obstruction and try closing it again.
WARNING:
securely latched in the fully-closed position by
lifting up on the bottom edge and confirming
there is no movement.
Before driving, ensure that the trunk is
Adjusting Opening Height of Powered Trunk
You can adjust the opening height of the powered trunk
(if equipped) to make it easier to reach or to avoid lowhanging ceilings or objects (for example, a garage door
or light):
Open the trunk, then manually lower or raise it to the
1.
desired opening height.
2. Press and hold the button on the underside of the
trunk for three seconds until you hear a
chime.
3. Confirm that you have set it to the desired height by
closing the powered trunk, then reopening it.
confirmation
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.
14 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 17
Rear Trunk
Secure all cargo before moving Model 3, and place
heavy cargo in the lower trunk compartment.
Distribute cargo weight between the front and rear
trunks.
CAUTION:
the upper compartment of the rear trunk or more
than 285 lbs (130 kg) in the lower compartment.
Doing so can cause damage.
Never load more than 130 lbs (60 kg) in
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.
Interior Emergency Trunk Release
An illuminated mechanical release located inside the
rear trunk allows you to open the rear trunk from the
inside if
release also allows a person locked inside to get out.
Model 3 has no electrical power. This mechanical
Firmly push the illuminated button in the direction of
1.
the arrow to release the latch.
Push the rear trunk open.
2.
15Opening and Closing
Page 18
Front Trunk
Opening
To open the front trunk, ensure Model 3 is in Park, and
then do one of the following before pulling the hood
open:
• Touch the associated Open icon on the touchscreen.
• Double-click the front trunk button on the key fob.
Touch the front trunk button in the mobile app.
•
3. Carefully try to lift the front edge of the hood to
ensure that it is fully closed.
When a door or trunk is open, the
touchscreen displays the Door Open
indicator light. The image of your Model 3
on the touchscreen also displays the open
front trunk.
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.
The cargo weight should be distributed between the
front and rear trunks.
CAUTION:
the front trunk. Doing so can cause damage.
Never load more than 55 lbs (25 kg) in
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
engage the latches.
firmly to
CAUTION: To prevent damage:
• Apply pressure only to the green areas shown.
Applying pressure to the red areas can cause
damage.
• Do not close the hood with one hand. Doing so
applies concentrated force in one area and can
result in a dent or crease.
• Do not apply pressure to the front edge of the
hood. Doing so can crease the edge.
•
Do not slam or drop the hood.
• To avoid scratches, don't have anything in your
hands (keys). Jewelry can also cause scratches.
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.
The front trunk locks when:
• You lock Model 3 using the touchscreen, key or
mobile app.
You leave Model 3 carrying your key (if Walk-Away
•
Door Lock on page 12 is turned on).
• Valet mode is active (see Valet Mode on page 43).
Interior Emergency Release
An illuminated interior release button inside the front
trunk allows a person locked inside to get out.
16 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 19
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:
front trunk. Never shut the front trunk when a
person is inside.
WARNING:
objects inside the front trunk do not bump against
the release button, causing the hood to
accidentally open.
People should never climb inside the
Care should be taken to ensure that
Front Trunk
3.
Pull the two wires out of the tow eye opening to
expose both terminals.
Opening Hood with No Power
In the unlikely event that Model 3 has no low voltage
power, you will be unable to open the front trunk using
the touchscreen, key fob, or mobile app. To open the
front trunk in this situation:
NOTE: The following steps do not open the front trunk if
Model 3 is locked and has low voltage power.
Locate an external low voltage power supply (such as
1.
a portable jump starter).
Release the tow eye cover by pressing firmly on the
2.
top right perimeter of the cover until it pivots inward,
then gently pulling the raised section toward you.
NOTE: Depending on production date, either the
positive or negative terminal may be attached to the
tow eye cover.
Connect the low voltage power supply's red positive
4.
(+) cable to the red positive (+) terminal.
Connect the low voltage power supply's black
5.
negative (-) cable to the black negative (-) terminal.
17Opening and Closing
Page 20
Front Trunk
NOTE: Applying external low voltage power to these
terminals only releases the hood latches. You cannot
charge the low voltage 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.
8.
If pulling the vehicle onto a flatbed truck, do not
replace the tow eye cover yet. If necessary, install the
tow eye cover by inserting the wires into the tow eye
opening and aligning the tow eye cover into position
and snapping it into place.
18 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 21
Interior Storage and Electronics
Center Console
In addition to housing an RFID transmitter that reads key
fobs and key cards (see Key Card on page 7), the center
console includes cup holders, two storage
compartments, and
To open the main storage compartment, pull its cover
upward. Open the front storage compartment by sliding
its cover forward.
a wireless phone charger.
To close the glovebox, push it upward until it clicks into
its closed position.
For additional glovebox security, touch Controls >
Safety > Glovebox PIN to set a 4-digit PIN (see
Glovebox PIN on page 146).
Second Row Console
Your Model 3 has a rear console integrated in the center
of the second row seat back. Pull the console down to
access the rear cup holders, or use it as an armrest.
Glovebox
To open the glovebox, touch Controls > Glovebox. The
glovebox automatically opens and its light turns on.
NOTE: If you leave the glovebox open, its light
eventually turns
NOTE: The glovebox locks whenever closed and you
lock Model 3 using the mobile app, key card, you leave
Model 3 carrying your phone key (if Walk-Away Door
Lock is turned on), or if Valet mode is active (see Valet
Mode on page 43). It does not lock when Model 3 is
locked by touching the lock icon on the touchscreen.
WARNING:
closed to prevent injury to a passenger if a
collision or sudden stop occurs.
o.
When driving, keep the glovebox
Wireless Phone Charger
A wireless phone charger is integrated into the front
console to provide up to 15W of power to charge a Qienabled phone. Simply place your phone on the charger.
Your device may feel warm while charging, but this is a
normal
When placed on the wireless charger, your phone
charges whenever the vehicle is powered on (the
touchscreen is on and you are in the vehicle). Your
phone will not charge after exiting the vehicle
feature (such as Sentry mode) is enabled and therefore
providing power to the USB ports (see Using Sentry
Mode on page 147). Model 3 will also not charge a
phone if the vehicle's Battery is discharged.
eect of inductive charging.
unless a
NOTE: The wireless phone charger may not work if your
phone case is too large or is made of metal. Try
removing the phone from its case before placing in the
charger.
19Opening and Closing
Page 22
Interior Storage and Electronics
CAUTION: The phone must be in direct contact
with the wireless charger. Do not place objects
between the phone and the charger (for example,
credit cards, key cards, coins, keys, metal objects,
etc.).
Low Voltage Power Socket
Your Model 3 has a power socket located in the center
console's rear compartment.
USB Ports
Model 3 has two USB ports located in the front
compartment of the center console. These ports can be
used to:
• Connect and charge USB devices.
• Play audio files stored on a phone or USB device (see
Playing Media from Devices on page 136).
• For saving Sentry Mode and Dashcam video footage,
use the USB port located in the glove box. Doing so
increases security and minimizes power consumption.
NOTE: For some vehicles manufactured after
approximately November 1, 2021, the center console USB
ports may only support charging devices. Use the USB
port inside the glove box for all other functions.
Both ports are USB-C compatible.
Open the front compartment of the center console. The
front USB ports are located on the rear wall of the
compartment.
The power socket is suitable for accessories requiring up
to 12A continuous draw (16A peak).
NOTE: For vehicles manufactured after approximately
November 2021, power inverters plugged into the low
voltage power socket must support 16V DC input to
function.
NOTE: Power is available whenever the vehicle is
considered "awake". The vehicle may be awake for many
reasons. For example, when using features such as
Summon, or when features such as Preconditioning,
Cabin Overheat Protection, Keep Climate On, Dog Mode,
Camp Mode,
is also awake whenever the low voltage battery is being
charged or is in use, during HV charging, when the
vehicle is communicating with the mobile app, etc.
Leaving an accessory plugged in does not deplete the
low voltage battery.
WARNING:
connector can become hot.
WARNING:
the vehicle’s electronics, Tesla recommends that
you do not plug any non-Tesla accessories,
including power inverters, into the low voltage
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 from the accessory,
unplug the accessory from the low voltage power
socket immediately.
CAUTION:
using the low voltage power socket. Doing so can
result in damage.
Sentry Mode, etc. are enabled. The vehicle
The power socket and an accessory’s
To prevent excessive interference with
Do not attempt to jump start Model 3
A USB port is also located at the rear of the glovebox.
This USB-A port is equipped with a pre-formatted flash
drive, ready to save videos when using features such as
Sentry Mode and Dashcam. Although not its primary
purpose, this port can also communicate with the
vehicle and can be used to charge a USB-connected
device.
20 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 23
Interior Storage and Electronics
Two additional USB ports are located in the rear of the
center console (on vehicles manufactured since
approximately June 2020, these ports are USB-C). These
ports charge USB-connected devices but do not
communicate with the vehicle.
USB Drive Requirements for Recording Videos
NOTE: For saving Sentry Mode and Dashcam footage,
Tesla recommends using the USB port located in the
glovebox. Doing so increases security and minimizes
power consumption.
One or more features on your Model 3 requires the use
of a
flash drive (for example, Dashcam, Sentry Mode and
Track Mode (if equipped) that meets these
requirements:
• Minimum storage capacity of 64 GB. Use a flash drive
with as much available storage as possible. Video
footage can occupy a large amount of space.
A sustained write speed of at least 4 MB/s. Note that
•
sustained write speed diers from peak write speed.
• USB 2.0 compatible. If using a USB 3.0 flash drive, it
must support USB 2.0.
• Properly formatted (described below).
NOTE: In some market regions you can purchase
recommended USB drives on
http://www.tesla.com.
NOTE: Power is available whenever the vehicle is
considered "awake". The vehicle may be awake for many
reasons. For example, when using features such as
Summon, or when features such as Preconditioning,
Keep Climate On, Dog Mode, Camp Mode,
etc. are enabled. The vehicle is also awake whenever the
low voltage battery is being charged or is in use, during
HV charging, when the vehicle is communicating with
the mobile app, etc. Leaving an accessory plugged in
does not deplete the
NOTE: Use USB 3.0 compliant cables to connect a
device to a USB port. Using non-compliant cables can
result in slower charging, potential connection problems
or degraded performance.
NOTE: Do not connect multiple devices using a USB
hub. This can prevent connected devices from charging
or from being recognized by Media Player, Sentry Mode,
Dashcam, etc.
low voltage battery.
Sentry Mode,
Formatting a USB Flash Drive
To save and retrieve video footage, Model 3 requires a
USB flash drive formatted as exFAT, MS-DOS FAT (for
Mac), ext3, or ext4 (NTFS is currently not supported).
For use with Dashcam
must contain a base-level folder called TeslaCam and for
use with Track Mode (if equipped), the flash drive must
contain a base-level folder called TeslaTrackMode.
Model 3 can format a USB flash drive for you. Insert the
flash drive into a front USB port, and touch Controls >
Safety > Format USB Drive. Doing so automatically
formats the drive as exFAT and creates a folder for
TeslaCam
flash drive is now ready to record and save video
footage. Format USB Drive is available only when a USB
flash drive (with one or fewer partitions) is inserted into
a front USB port. Choosing
existing content on the flash drive—before using this
feature, you must move any content you want to keep to
a dierent device.
NOTE: For some vehicles manufactured after
approximately November 1, 2021, the center console USB
ports may only support charging devices. Use the USB
port inside the glove box for all other functions.
If Model 3 is unable to format the flash drive, you must
format it using a computer. Remember to manually
create the TeslaCam folder, and the TeslaTrackMode
folder (if equipped).
and TeslaTrackMode (if equipped). The USB
and Sentry Mode, the flash drive
Format USB Drive erases any
21Opening and Closing
Page 24
Interior Storage and Electronics
You can also format the USB flash drive with a computer
to use a single flash drive for Dashcam, Sentry Mode,
Track Mode (if equipped), and audio files. Create
separate partitions on the drive formatted as exFAT; for
example, one for Dashcam and Sentry Mode (you must
create the
the TeslaTrackMode folder), and an audio partition.
Once the USB flash drive is formatted and contains the
necessary folder(s), insert it into a front (or glovebox, if
equipped) USB port. Do not use a rear USB port— these
are used only to charge USB devices. Once inserted, it
can take up to 15 seconds for
flash drive. When recognized, icons for Dashcam and
Sentry Mode are available when you touch Controls and
your vehicle is ready to record videos.
first enable Sentry Mode (if equipped) by touching
Controls > Sentry.
TeslaCam folder), one for Track Mode (create
Model 3 to recognize the
You may need to
Viewing Video Recordings
You can view recorded footage on the touchscreen
when Model 3 is in Park. Touch the Dashcam icon
located in the app launcher or the Dashcam icon on the
Controls screen. Touch the menu icon in the top corner
of the screen. The tabs display a list of all video clips,
organized by location and timestamp. Pause, rewind,
fast forward, and delete video recordings as needed.
You can also navigate to
Dashcam Clips to delete all dashcam and Sentry Mode
footage, including recent and saved clips.
Controls > Safety > Delete
When the USB
video footage can no longer be saved. To prevent the
flash drive from getting full, regularly move saved videos
to another device and delete them from the flash drive.
flash drive runs out of storage space,
Coat Hangers
Your Model 3 has a coat hanger on each side of the
vehicle in the second row. Push the coat hanger to
release it. Push it again to retract it.
NOTE: Dashcam recording pauses when you launch the
Viewer.
You can also view video footage by removing and
inserting the USB
navigating to the TeslaCam or TeslaTrackMode (if
equipped) folder.
The TeslaCam folder contains three sub-folders:
Recent Clips: When recording, Dashcam continuously
•
saves footage to Recent Clips in 60-minute cycles.
Footage is overwritten every hour unless you
manually save it. Four videos are recorded for each
clip, one from each camera (front, rear, left, and
right).
NOTE: Rear camera recordings are available only on
vehicles manufactured after approximately February
2018.
• Saved Clips: Contains all recordings that are saved
using Dashcam.
Sentry Clips: Contains the last 10 minutes of footage
•
from all Sentry Mode events that triggered an Alert
or Alarm state. If storage space on the USB flash
drive becomes limited, the oldest Sentry Clips are
deleted to provide space for new ones. Once deleted,
you cannot retrieve them.
flash drive into a computer and
22 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 25
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:
Adjusting the Front Seats
Sit upright with both feet on the floor and the seat
1.
back reclined no more than 30 degrees.
Make sure you can easily reach the pedals and that
2.
your arms are slightly bent when holding the steering
wheel. Your chest should be at least
(25 cm) from the center of the airbag cover.
Place the shoulder section of the seat belt mid-way
3.
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.
10 inches
Move seat forward/backward and adjust the seat’s
1.
height and tilt angle up/down.
2. Adjust backrest.
3. Adjust lumbar support (if equipped).
WARNING:
that the area around the seat is free of obstacles
(people and objects).
WARNING:
Doing so increases the risk of a collision.
Before adjusting a front seat, check
Do not adjust seats while driving.
23Seating and Safety Restraints
Page 26
Front and Rear Seats
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.
Folding Rear Seats
Model 3 has a split rear seat that can fold forward.
NOTE: Driving with the rear seats folded forward can
increase the amount of perceived noise and/or vibration
coming from the rear of the vehicle (trunk, suspension,
etc.).
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.
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.
WARNING:
locked in their upright position by pushing it
forward or rearward. Failure to do so increases the
risk of injury.
Always ensure the seat backs are
Head Supports
The front seats and the second row outboard 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. When occupied
by a passenger that is not seated in a child safety seat,
the head support should always be raised and locked
into position (so that the center is aligned with the
center of the occupant's head).
24 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 27
WARNING: To minimize the risk of severe injury or
death in the event of a collision, ensure that head
supports are positioned correctly before sitting in,
or operating, Model 3.
WARNING: When installing a seat belt retained
child safety seat in the center seating position in
the second row, you must lower the associated
head support (described next).
Front and Rear Seats
Removing/Installing a 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.
Raising/Lowering the Rear Center Head Support
To raise the head support, lift it until you hear 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.
To re-install the head support:
With the front of the head support facing forward,
1.
insert both posts into the corresponding holes on the
seat back.
Press down on the head support until it clicks into
2.
place.
Pull up on the head support to ensure that it is
3.
secure.
WARNING:
correctly installed before seating an occupant.
Failure to do so increases the risk of injury or
death if a collision occurs.
Ensure that the head support is
Seat Heaters
The front and rear seats contain heating pads that
operate at three levels from 3 (highest) to 1 (lowest). To
operate the seat heaters, see Climate Controls on page
124.
WARNING:
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.
To avoid burns resulting from
25Seating and Safety Restraints
Page 28
Front and Rear Seats
Seat Covers
WARNING: Do not use seat covers in Model 3.
Doing so could restrict deployment of the seatmounted side air bags if a collision occurs. Also, if
the vehicle is equipped with an occupant detection
system that is used to determine the status of the
passenger front airbag, seat covers may interfere
with this system.
26 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 29
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.
securely hold child safety seats, all passenger seating
positions are equipped with an automatic locking
retractor (ALR) feature that, by fully extracting the seat
belt (beyond the length needed for a typical adult
occupant), locks the belt into place until the seat belt is
unbuckled.
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
Seat Belt Reminders
The seat belt reminder
alerts you if a seat belt for an occupied
driver or passenger seat is unbuckled. If
the belt remains unbuckled, the reminder
flashes and an intermittent chime sounds.
If all occupants are buckled up and the
reminder stays on, re-buckle 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.
on the touchscreen
2. Draw the belt out smoothly, ensuring the belt lays
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.
4.
Pull the belt to check that it is securely fastened.
Pull the diagonal part of the belt toward the reel to
5.
remove excess slack.
flat
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
23. Adjust the height of the shoulder anchor if the seat
belt is not positioned correctly:
Press and hold the button on the shoulder anchor to
1.
release the locking mechanism.
While holding the button, move the shoulder anchor
2.
up or down as necessary so that the seat belt is
positioned correctly.
(see Correct Driving Position on page
WARNING:
in all seating positions. Do not disable a seat belt
reminder when the seating position is occupied by
a passenger.
Seat belts must be worn by passengers
To Fasten a Belt
Ensure correct positioning of the seat (see Correct
1.
Driving Position on page 23).
Release the button on the shoulder anchor so that it
3.
locks into position.
27Seating and Safety Restraints
Page 30
Seat Belts
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 pretensioners 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:
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-tensioners have
Testing Seat Belts
To confirm that seat belts are operating correctly,
WARNING:
the seat belt to cushion the impact in the event of
a collision.
28 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Never place anything between you and
perform these three simple checks on each seat belt.
1. With the seat belt fastened, give the webbing nearest
the buckle a quick pull. The buckle should remain
securely locked.
Page 31
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 176.
Seat Belt Warnings
WARNING:
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:
safety seat as described in the Child Safety Seat
topic. Always follow the child safety seat
manufacturer's instructions when installing.
WARNING:
correctly. An improperly worn seat belt increases
the risk of injury or death if a collision occurs.
WARNING:
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:
part of the strap twisted.
WARNING:
by one occupant only. It is dangerous to put a seat
belt around a child being carried on an occupant’s
lap.
WARNING:
collision must be inspected or replaced by Tesla,
even if damage to the assembly is not obvious.
WARNING:
(such as fraying), or have been cut or damaged in
any way, must be replaced by Tesla.
WARNING:
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:
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:
interfere with the operation of a seat belt, or that
can cause a seat belt to become inoperable.
Seat belts should be worn by all
Secure small children in a suitable child
Ensure that all seat belts are worn
Do not wear seat belts over hard,
Seat belts should not be worn with any
Each seat belt assembly must be used
Seat belts that have been worn in a
Seat belts that show signs of wear
Avoid contaminating a seat belt’s
Do not make modifications or
Do not make modifications that can
WARNING:
convenience products that attach to the seat belts.
WARNING:
should be fully retracted and not hanging loose. If
a seat belt does not fully retract, contact Tesla.
WARNING:
serviceable parts and may contain pyrotechnics.
Do not disassemble, remove, or replace
components.
Do not use after market comfort and
When seat belts are not in use, they
The seat belt system has no user
29Seating and Safety Restraints
Page 32
Child Safety Seats
Guidelines for Seating Children
Your Model 3 seat belts are designed for adults and larger children. You must restrain infants and small children in
the second row seats only, and you must use a suitable child safety seat appropriate for the child’s age, weight, and
size.
WARNING: Never seat a child on a seat with an ACTIVE AIRBAG in front of it. DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY to
the child can occur. See Passenger Front Airbag Status on page 37.
WARNING: Do not associate the Easy Entry setting with the driver's profile when a child is seated in the
second row. Doing so can cause the driver's seat to push against the child, especially when a child is seated in
a forward-facing child seat or booster seat. Do not rely on Model 3 to recognize or accommodate a child
seated in the second row while using this setting (see Driver Profiles on page 43).
Refer to the following label located on the sun visors.
NOTE: The image shown below is representative only and may not be identical to the label(s) in your vehicle.
30 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 33
Child Safety Seats
Choosing a Child Safety Seat
All children age 12 and under should ride in the second and third row seats. Always use a child safety seat suitable
for a young child’s age and weight. The following table is based on child safety seat recommendations determined
by the National Highway
www.nhtsa.gov/ChildSafety/Guidance).
Category Infants Toddlers Young children
Age Birth to 1 year* Over 1 year* 4 years and older, and
Trac Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States (for more information, go to
less than 57 in.
(145 cm) tall
Weight Up to at least 20 lbs (9 kg)** Over 20 lbs (9 kg) (minimum)
and up to 40 lbs (18 kg)*
Type of child safety seat Rear facing (or convertible) Forward facing (or
convertible)*
Seat position Rear facing only* Forward facing* Forward facing
Recommended attachment
method
* Many child safety seats currently available allow children to ride rear-facing using the child safety seat’s
integrated 5-point harness for a longer period of time BASED UPON SPECIFIC HEIGHT AND WEIGHT LIMITS. Keep
your child in a rear facing seat for as long as possible. CHECK THE CHILD SAFETY SEAT MANUFACTURER’S
INSTRUCTIONS AND CAREFULLY FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS
** ISOFIX is the international standard for attachment points for child safety seats in passenger cars. The system
has other regional names including LATCH ("Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children") in the United States and
LUAS ("Lower Universal Anchorage System") or Canfix in Canada. It has also been called the "Universal Child
Safety Seat System" or
If combined weight of child
and safety seat is up to 65
lbs (29.5 kg), attach using
either LATCH** (lower
anchor only) or the seat belt
only.*** If combined weight
of child and safety seat is
over
65 lbs (29.5 kg), attach
using the seat belt only.***
UCSSS.
If combined weight of child
and safety seat is up to 65 lbs
(29.5 kg), attach using either
LATCH** (both lower anchors
and top tether anchor), or the
seat belt and upper tether
strap.*** If combined weight of
child and safety seat is over
lbs (29.5 kg), attach using the
seat belt and upper tether
strap.***
Over 40 lbs (18 kg)
Seat belt retained
booster seat
Attach booster seats
using the seat belt
only.
65
*** Subject to instructions provided by the child safety seat manufacturer.
WARNING: Laws that govern how and where children should be carried when traveling in a vehicle are subject
to change. It is the driver’s responsibility to keep up to date on, and comply with, all current regulations in the
region(s) where Model 3 is driven. To check the child passenger safety laws for states in the U.S., go to: http://
www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/childsafety_laws.html.
WARNING: Do not use LATCH/Isofix/i-Size anchors with child restraint system or booster seats that have an
integral safety belt where the combined weight of the child plus the child restraint system exceeds 65 lbs
(29.5 kg).
31Seating and Safety Restraints
Page 34
Child Safety Seats
Seating Larger Children
If a child is too large to fit into a child safety seat, but
too small to safely fit into the standard seat belts, use a
booster seat appropriate for the child’s age and size.
Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to
secure the booster seat.
Installing Child Safety Seats
There are two general methods used to install child
safety seats:
• Seat belt retained - these seats are secured using the
vehicle’s seat belts.
LATCH retained - these seats attach to anchor bars
•
built into the vehicle’s rear seats.
Check the child safety seat manufacturer’s instructions
and the table provided in this document to determine
which installation method to use. Some child safety
seats can be installed using either method. Always
follow the child safety seat manufacturer’s instructions.
Installing Seat Belt Retained Child Seats
First, make sure that the child safety seat is appropriate
for the weight, height, and age of the child.
1. Place the child safety seat in
extend the seat belt. Route and buckle the seat belt
in accordance with the child safety seat
manufacturer’s instructions.
Allow the seat belt to retract, and remove all slack in
2.
the seat belt while firmly pushing the child safety
seat into the Model 3 seat.
If the seat belt retained child safety seat has an upper
3.
tether, attach it to the back of the seat (see Attaching
Upper Tether Straps on page 33).
Model 3, and fully
Avoid dressing the child in bulky clothing and do not
place any objects between the child and the restraint
system.
Adjust harnesses for every child, every trip.
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 and the
webbing is fully retracted. The ALR mechanism operates
as a ratchet, winding in slack and preventing the seat
belt from extending any further until it has been
completely rewound. When installing a child safety seat,
engage the belt's automatic locking retractor by pulling
the seat belt webbing until it is
system engages only when the seat belt is at its
maximum extension point.
NOTE: An automatic locking retractor disengages only
when the seat belt is unbuckled and fully retracted. The
belt can then be worn as a normal belt, sliding freely in
and out and locking tight only in an emergency. Once
disengaged, the belt must be fully extended to reengage the locking mechanism whenever you install a
child safety seat.
fully extended. The ALR
Installing LATCH (ISOFIX) Child Seats
Lower LATCH anchors are provided in the second row
outboard seats. The anchors are located between the
seat's back rest and rear cushion. The exact location of
each anchor is identified by a child safety seat
identification button, illustrated below. The button is
located on the seat back, directly above its associated
anchor.
Always follow the detailed instructions provided by the
child safety seat manufacturer. General guidelines are
provided below.
32 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 35
Child Safety Seats
In the second row, install LATCH child safety seats in the
outboard seating positions only. Use only a seat belt
retained seat in the center position.
To install a LATCH child safety seat, slide the safety seat
latches onto the anchor bars until they click into place.
Carefully read and follow the instructions provided by
the child safety seat manufacturer.
Once installed, test the security of the installation before
seating a child. Attempt to twist the child safety seat
from side to side and try to pull it away from the seat,
then check to ensure the anchors remain securely in
place.
NOTE: Lower LATCH anchors should not be used with
child seats or booster seats that have an integrated
safety belt in situations where the combined weight of
the child plus the child restraint is more than 65 lbs (29.5
kg). In these situations, use the safety belt instead.
Attaching Upper Tether Straps
If an upper tether strap is provided, attach its hook to
the anchor point located on the shelf behind the rear
seats.
NOTE: The location of anchor points may not be readily
visible but can be found by identifying a slice in the
seat's material.
WARNING:
to the instructions provided by the manufacturer
of the child safety seat.
WARNING:
CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN THE CENTER SEATING
POSITION.
Tighten upper tether straps according
USE ONLY SEAT BELT RETAINED
33Seating and Safety Restraints
Page 36
Child Safety Seats
To access an anchor point, press down on the back of its
cover.
For a single-strap tether in the center seating position,
fully lower the head support
page 24) and run the strap over the top center of the
head support.
(see Head Supports on
Testing a Child Safety Seat
Before seating a child, always make sure the child safety
seat is not loose:
For dual-strap tethers, position a strap on each side of
the head support.
For single-strap tethers at the outboard seating
positions, run the strap over the outside-facing side of
the head support (same side of the head support as the
seat belt retraction mechanism).
Hold the child safety seat by the belt path and try to
1.
slide the safety seat from side to side and front to
back.
If the seat moves more than one inch (2.5 cm), it is
2.
too loose. Tighten the belt or reconnect the
retained child safety seat.
If you are unable to reduce slack, try a dierent seat
3.
location or try another child safety seat.
LATCH
Child Safety Seat Warnings
WARNING:
the front passenger seat even if you are using a
child safety seat. This seat has an airbag in front of
it. Although this airbag is disabled when Model 3
detects a lightweight passenger, do not rely on
technology to protect your child.
WARNING:
be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap
belt portion of a lap-shoulder belt. Children could
be endangered in a crash if their child restraints
are not properly secured in the vehicle.
WARNING:
children are safer when properly restrained in the
rear seating positions than in the front seating
positions.
WARNING:
safety seat until your child weighs over 20 lbs (9
kg) and can sit independently. Up to the age of
two, a child's spine and neck are not suciently
developed to avoid injury in a frontal impact.
Extreme hazard! Do not seat a child on
Child restraint systems are designed to
According to collision statistics,
Do not use a forward facing child
34 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 37
WARNING: Do not allow a baby or infant to be
held on a lap. All children should be restrained in
an appropriate child safety seat at all times.
WARNING: To ensure children are safely seated,
follow all instructions provided in this document
and by the manufacturer of the child safety seat.
WARNING: Children should ride in a rear facing
child safety seat using the seat’s integrated 5point harness for as long as possible.
WARNING: Do not use seat belt extenders on a
seat belt that is being used to install a child safety
seat or booster seat.
WARNING: When seating larger children, make
sure the child's head is supported and the child’s
seat belt is properly adjusted and fastened. The
shoulder portion of the belt must be away from
the face and neck, and the lap portion must not be
over the stomach.
WARNING: Never attach two child safety seats to
one anchor point. In a collision, one anchor point
may be incapable of securing both seats.
WARNING: Child restraint anchors are designed to
withstand only those loads imposed by correctly
fitted child restraints. Under no circumstances are
they to be used for adult seat belts, harnesses, or
for attaching other items or equipment to the
vehicle.
WARNING: Always check harnesses and tether
straps for damage and wear.
WARNING: Never leave a child unattended, even if
the child is secured in a child safety seat.
WARNING: Never use a child safety seat that has
been involved in a collision. Have the seat
inspected or replaced as described in the child
safety seat manufacturer’s instructions.
Child Safety Seats
35Seating and Safety Restraints
Page 38
Airbags
Location of Airbags
Airbags are located in the approximate areas shown below. Airbag warning information is printed on the sun visors.
Model 3 is equipped with an airbag and lap/shoulder belt at both front seating positions. The airbag is a
supplemental restraint at those seating positions. All occupants, including the driver, should always wear their seat
belts whether or not an airbag is also provided at their seating position to minimize the risk of severe injury or death
in the event of a crash.
Knee airbag
1.
2. Front airbags
3. Seat-mounted side airbags
Curtain airbags
4.
36 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 39
Airbags
How Airbags Work
Airbags inflate when sensors detect an impact that exceeds deployment thresholds. These thresholds are designed
to predict the severity of a crash in time for the airbags to help protect the vehicle's occupants. Airbags inflate
instantly with considerable force accompanied by a loud noise. The inflated bag, together with the seat belts, limits
movement of occupants to reduce the risk of injury.
Front airbags are not ordinarily designed to inflate in rear collisions, rollovers, side collisions and when braking
heavily or driving over bumps and potholes. Likewise, front airbags may not
minor front collisions, underride collisions, or minor impacts with narrow objects (such as posts or poles). Significant
superficial damage can occur to the vehicle without the airbags inflating and, conversely, a relatively small amount of
structural damage can cause airbags to
does not represent whether or not the front airbags should have inflated.
inflate. Therefore, the external appearance of the vehicle after a collision
inflate in all frontal collisions, such as
WARNING:
the airbag system, contact Tesla.
Before modifying your vehicle to accommodate a person with disabilities in a way that may aect
Types of Airbags
Model 3 has the following types of airbags:
Front airbags: The front airbags are designed to reduce injuries if larger children or adults are riding in the front
•
seats. Follow all warnings and instructions related to seating a child on the front passenger seat (if permitted in
your market region). See Child Safety Seats on page 30.
Knee airbags: Knee airbags and the front airbags work together. The knee airbags limit the forward motion of the
•
front seat occupants by restricting leg movement, thereby positioning the occupants so that the front airbags
work more eectively.
Seat-mounted side airbags: A seat-mounted side airbag in the front seats helps protect the pelvis and the thorax
•
region of the torso. The seat-mounted side airbags on both the impacted and non-impacted side of the vehicle
inflate in the event of severe side impact or severe oset frontal impact.
will
Curtain airbags: Curtain airbags help protect the head. Curtain airbags on both the impacted and non-impacted
•
side of the vehicle will inflate only if a severe side impact occurs, or if the vehicle rolls over.
Passenger Front Airbag Status
The status of the passenger front airbag displays in the top corner of the touchscreen:
Before driving with a child seat on the front passenger seat (if legally permitted in your market
region), always double-check the status of the passenger front airbag to
When the passenger front airbag is OFF, it will not inflate when a collision occurs. This indicator also
displays when the seat is unoccupied.
Before driving with a child seat on the front passenger seat (if legally permitted in your market
region), always double-check the status of the passenger front airbag to confirm that it is OFF.
When the passenger front airbag is OFF, it will not inflate when a collision occurs. This indicator also
displays when the seat is unoccupied.
To protect an adult occupying the front passenger seat, ensure the passenger front airbag is ON.
When the passenger front airbag is ON, it may inflate when a collision occurs.
confirm that it is OFF.
37Seating and Safety Restraints
Page 40
Airbags
Controlling the Passenger Front Airbag
Model 3 has an occupancy sensor in the front passenger seat that controls the status of the front airbag.
NOTE: The occupancy classification system (OCS) meets the regulatory requirement of FMVSS 208 and
automatically detects when
WARNING: Seating an infant in a rear facing child safety seat on a seat equipped with an operational airbag
can cause serious injury or death.
inflating the passenger front airbag would be unnecessary or potentially harmful.
Object Classification OCS Passenger
Airbag Status*
Empty OFF PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF
Object OFF or ON PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF or
Rear facing child seat
designed for children up to a
year old
Forward facing child seat OFF PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF 35 lbs (16 kg) or less
Child in a booster seat OFF or ON PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF or
Large child OFF or ON PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF or
5th percentile female or
larger (by weight)
*If the passenger airbag status indicator does not match the situation, do not use the seat. The passenger must
ride in a dierent seat. Contact Tesla Service.
NOTE: It takes approximately six seconds after you power on Model 3 for the occupant classification system (OCS)
to report accurate status of the front passenger airbag. As a result, when you first power on Model 3, even in
situations when it should be OFF because the seat is occupied by a weight of
touchscreen approximately six seconds to display the status, PASS AIRBAG OFF. If it fails to do so, contact Tesla
Service and do not seat a child in the front passenger seating position.
OFF PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF 20 lbs (9 kg) or less
ON PASSENGER AIRBAG ON Over approximately 100 lbs
Indicator status Notes
Depends on material/
PASSENGER AIRBAG ON
PASSENGER AIRBAG ON
PASSENGER AIRBAG ON
20 lbs (9 kg) or less, it will take the
contents.
20-100 lbs (9-45 kg)*
(45 kg)
To make sure the sensing system can correctly detect occupancy status, eliminate the following:
Objects lodged under the seat.
•
Heavy objects sitting on the seat (briefcase, large purse).
•
Objects wedged between the seat back and seat cushion.
•
Cargo interfering with the seat.
•
Aftermarket items attached to, or sitting on or between, the seat and occupant including but not limited to
•
covers, mats, blankets, etc.
These conditions can interfere with the occupancy sensor. If you have eliminated the above possibilities, and the
airbag status is still incorrect, ask passengers to ride in the rear seats and contact Tesla to have the airbag system
checked.
NOTE: The front passenger occupancy sensor aects the operation of the passenger front airbags only. The side
airbags are not aected.
WARNING:
previously described, contact Tesla immediately.
38 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
If the front passenger airbag is not turning on or o as expected based on the weight thresholds
Page 41
Airbags
WARNING: If seating a child in the front passenger seat is legally permissible in your market region, it is the
driver's responsibility to ensure that the passenger front airbag is OFF. Never seat a child in a rear facing safety
seat in the front passenger seat with an active airbag. DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY to the child can occur. Per
recommendations by the National Highway Trac Safety Administration, all occupants age 12 and under must
ride in the rear seats.
WARNING: Do not use seat covers on 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, if equipped.
39Seating and Safety Restraints
Page 42
Airbags
Ensuring Accurate Occupant Classification
To help ensure an occupant in the front passenger seat can be accurately classified, the passenger must:
• Wear a seat belt.
•
Sit upright on the center of the seat cushion, with shoulders resting against the seat back and legs extended
comfortably in front with feet on the floor. See Examples of Correct and Incorrect Seating Positions on page 41.
• Remain positioned on the seat cushion and not lift their weight o the seat (for example, by pushing their feet
against the
•
Never wear thick, wet, or bulky clothing (such as ski wear or padded clothing).
In addition to the items listed above, the following situations can interfere with the accuracy of the occupant
classification system:
Placing a radio transmitter (for example, a hunting radio or walkie-talkie) on the front passenger seat.
•
• Placing an AC/DC inverter, or a device that is being powered by the inverter (for example, a cell phone, tablet, or
computer) on the front passenger seat cushion.
Placing liquid (such as a bottled drink) or food containers on a car seat when a child seat is present.
•
Incorrectly placing a child safety seat so that the entire lower section is not positioned against the seat cushion.
•
Objects lodged under the seat or wedged between the seat back and cushion.
•
Heavy objects sitting on the seat (briefcase, large purse).
•
Cargo interfering with the seat.
•
Aftermarket items attached to or placed between the seat and the occupant, such as covers, mats, blankets, etc.
•
floor or pressing on the center console or armrest to lift up).
These conditions can interfere with the occupancy sensor. If you have eliminated the above possibilities, and the
airbag status is still incorrect, instruct passengers to ride in the rear seats and contact Tesla to have the airbag
system checked.
NOTE: Tesla follows NHTSA (National Highway Trac Safety Administration) recommendations that all occupants
age 12 and under must ride in a rear seating position.
NOTE: The front passenger occupancy sensor aects the operation of the passenger front airbags only. The side
airbags are not aected.
WARNING:
(OCS) which can cause serious injury or death.
WARNING:
front passenger seat. Contact Tesla Service.
WARNING:
passenger seat.
WARNING:
air bags if a collision occurs. It can also reduce the accuracy of the occupant classification system.
Failure to follow the above instructions can adversely aect the Occupant Classification System
If the front passenger airbag is not turning on or o as expected, do not seat a passenger in the
To ensure accuracy of the occupant detection system, do not make any modifications to the front
Do not use seat covers on Model 3. Doing so could restrict deployment of the seat-mounted side
40 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 43
Examples of Correct and Incorrect Seating Positions
Correct seating position:
Incorrect seating position - the passenger's feet must be
on the floor:
Airbags
Incorrect seating position - the passenger must not
recline the backrest to a laying down position when the
vehicle is moving:
Incorrect seating position - the passenger must not slide
forward on the seat cushion:
41Seating and Safety Restraints
Page 44
Airbags
Inflation Eects
WARNING: When airbags inflate, a fine powder is
released. This powder can irritate the skin and
should be thoroughly flushed from the eyes and
from any cuts or abrasions.
After inflation, the airbags deflate to provide a gradual
cushioning eect for the occupants and to ensure the
driver’s forward vision is not obscured.
If airbags have inflated, or if your vehicle has been in a
collision, your vehicle requires servicing before it will
power up. In addition, your airbags, seat belt pretensioners and any associated components must be
checked, and if necessary, replaced. Contact Tesla
Service immediately.
In a collision, in addition to the airbags inflating:
Doors unlock.
•
• Hazard warning lights turn on.
Interior lights turn on.
•
High voltage is disabled.
•
NOTE: In some collisions, even if airbags did not inflate,
high voltage may be disabled and you will be unable to
power up and drive. Contact Tesla Service immediately.
Airbag Warning Indicator
The airbag indicator on the touchscreen
remains lit if the airbag system is
malfunctioning. The only time this indicator
should light up is
powers up, in which case it turns o within
a few seconds. If it remains lit, contact
Tesla immediately and do not drive.
briefly when Model 3 first
Airbag Warnings
WARNING:
speed and force, which can cause injury. To limit
injuries, ensure that occupants are wearing seat
belts and are correctly seated, with the seat
positioned as far back as possible. The National
Highway Trac Safety Administration (NHTSA)
recommends a minimum distance of 10" (25 cm)
between an occupant’s chest and an airbag.
WARNING:
front passenger seat unless permitted by
regulations in your market region. Follow all
regulations in your region for the appropriate way
to seat a child based on the child's weight, size,
and age. The safest place to seat infants and
young children is in a rear seating position. Seating
an infant or child in a rear-facing child restraint
system on a seat equipped with an operational
airbag can cause serious injury or death.
WARNING:
seat on a seat with an operational airbag in front
of it. Doing so can cause injury or death if the
airbag inflates.
WARNING:
airbags, maintain an unobstructed gap between an
occupant’s torso and the side of Model 3.
WARNING:
against doors. Doing so can cause injury if a
curtain airbag inflates.
WARNING:
the operation of an airbag by placing feet, knees
or any other part of the body on or near an airbag.
WARNING:
near the front airbags, the side of the front seats,
the headliner at the side of the vehicle, or any
other airbag cover that could interfere with
inflation of an airbag. Objects can cause serious
injury if the vehicle is in a collision severe enough
to cause the airbag to inflate.
WARNING:
components are hot. Do not touch until they have
cooled.
Airbags inflate with considerable
Children should not be seated on the
Do not use a rear-facing child safety
To ensure correct inflation of the side
Passengers shouldn't lean their heads
Do not allow passengers to obstruct
Do not attach or place objects on or
Following inflation, some airbag
WARNING:
should always wear their seat belts, whether or not
an airbag is also provided at their seating position,
to minimize the risk of severe injury or death in the
event of a collision.
WARNING:
their arms over the airbag module, as an inflating
airbag can cause fractures or other injuries.
WARNING:
Doing so could restrict deployment of the seatmounted side air bags if a collision occurs. It can
also reduce the accuracy of the occupant
detection system, if equipped.
42 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
All occupants, including the driver,
Front seat occupants should not place
Do not use seat covers on Model 3.
Page 45
Driver Profiles
Creating a Driver Profile
When you first adjust the driver’s seat, steering wheel
position, or exterior side mirrors, the touchscreen
prompts you to create a driver profile to save these
adjustments. Your
you make while customizing Model 3.
NOTE:
For quick access, the driver profile icon also
displays at the top of the touchscreen when Model 3 is
parked.
If you change the position of the driver’s seat, steering
wheel, or exterior side mirrors after you have saved or
chosen a driver profile, the touchscreen prompts you to
Save the new position or Restore the previously saved
position (other settings are automatically saved). To
change a setting without saving or restoring, just ignore
the prompt.
NOTE: Valet mode is a built-in driver profile that limits
speed and restricts access to some Model 3 features
(see Valet Mode on page 43).
NOTE: To stop automatic adjustments that are in
process based on a driver's
Driver Profile dropdown menu. Automatic adjustments
also stop if you manually adjust a seat, mirror, or the
steering wheel.
Easy Entry
You can define an Easy Entry setting that moves the
steering wheel and driver's seat to make it easy to enter
and exit Model 3. Any driver can use the Easy Entry
setting by associating it with their driver's profile. When
the Easy Entry setting is associated with a driver's
profile, the steering wheel and driver's seat
automatically adjust when in Park and the driver's seat
belt is unbuckled, allowing an easy exit from Model 3.
When returning to the vehicle and stepping on the brake
pedal, settings automatically adjust back to the settings
used by the most recent driver
key if it's linked to a driver profile).
To use Easy Entry with a driver profile, ensure the Use
Easy Entry box is checked.
profile also saves various preferences
To add a new driver profile, touch the
driver profile icon at the top of the
Controls screen. Then touch Driver Profile
Settings > Add New Driver, type the
driver's name and touch Create Profile.
Follow the onscreen instructions
mirror and steering wheel position to the
driver profile. Check the Use Easy Entry
checkbox if you want to save (or use
existing) Easy Entry settings in which the
driver's seat and the steering wheel are
automatically adjusted to make it easy to
enter and exit
Model 3.
profile, touch Stop on the
profile (or based on the
to save
WARNING:
driver's seat to the full rearward position when a
child safety seat is installed on a rear seat located
behind the driver's seat. With reduced clearance,
the movement of the seat may impact a child's
legs, cause injury, or dislodge the seat.
Selecting Between Driver
Never use Easy Entry to move the
Profiles
To adjust Model 3 based on a driver’s
profile, touch the driver profile icon at the
top of the Controls screen. Then choose
the driver, and Model 3 is adjusted based
on the settings that have been saved to the
chosen driver
profile.
Saved Settings
A subset of the settings that you choose to customize
your Model 3 are automatically saved to your driver's
profile. Once saved, a green check mark appears next to
the driver
automatically saved driver profile settings are:
Navigation, temperature, lights and display settings.
•
Autopilot and driving preferences.
•
profile icon on the touchscreen. Examples of
Linking a Driver Profile to a Key
You can link a driver profile to a key (or keys) to allow
Model 3 to automatically select the correct driver profile
when the linked key is detected as you approach the
vehicle and open the driver's door. To link a driver
to a key, first ensure you are using your desired driver
profile. Touch the driver profile icon at the top of the
Controls screen. Follow the onscreen instructions to add
a phone key, key card, or key fob (see
Removing Keys on page 10). When finished, touch the
driver icon to link the key to the desired driver profile.
The name of the driver profile appears under the key to
show that it is linked.
NOTE: Model 3 supports up to 10 driver profiles. You can
link multiple keys to a driver profile, but you cannot link
multiple driver profiles to a single key.
Adding and
profile
Valet Mode
When Model 3 is in Valet mode, the following restrictions
apply:
Speed is limited to 70 mph (113 km/h).
•
Maximum acceleration and power are limited.
•
• Front trunk and glovebox are locked.
• Home and Work locations are not available in the
navigation system.
Voice commands are disabled.
•
43Driving
Page 46
Driver Profiles
• Autopilot convenience features are disabled.
• The Allow Mobile Access setting cannot be changed
HomeLink (if available in your market region) is not
•
accessible.
• Driver Profiles are not accessible.
•
The touchscreen does not display the list of keys that
can access Model 3 (see Managing Keys on page 10).
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are disabled. When Model 3 is in
Valet mode, you cannot pair new Bluetooth devices
or view or delete existing paired devices. However, if
a Bluetooth-paired device or a known Wi-Fi network
is within range,
Starting Valet Mode
With Model 3 in Park, touch the driver profile icon at the
top of the Controls screen, then touch Valet Mode.
The first time you enter Valet mode, the touchscreen
prompts you to create a 4-digit PIN you will use to
cancel Valet mode.
Model 3 connects to it.
When Valet mode is active, the touchscreen displays the
Valet and the Valet mode driver profile displays on
word
the touchscreen.
You can also use the mobile app to start and cancel
Valet mode (provided
the mobile app, you do not need to enter a PIN because
you are already required to log into the app using your
Tesla Account credentials.
NOTE: If the PIN to Drive setting is enabled (see PIN to
Drive on page 146), you must enter the driving PIN
before you can define or enter a Valet PIN. Once in Valet
mode,
to enter the driving PIN.
NOTE: The PIN to Drive setting is not available when
Valet mode is active.
If you forget your valet PIN, reset it from inside Model 3
by entering your Tesla Account credentials (which also
cancels Valet mode). You can also reset your PIN using
the mobile app.
Model 3 can be driven without the valet needing
Model 3 is in Park). When using
Canceling Valet Mode
With Model 3 in Park, touch the Valet Mode driver
profile icon at the top of the Controls screen, and enter
your 4-digit PIN.
When you cancel Valet mode, all settings associated
with the most recently used driver profile and climate
control settings are restored, and all features are
available.
NOTE: You do not need to enter a PIN to cancel Valet
mode from the mobile app.
44 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 47
Steering Wheel
Adjusting Steering Wheel Position
To adjust the steering wheel, touch Controls and touch
the Steering icon.
Use the left scroll button on the steering wheel to move
the
steering wheel to the desired position:
• To adjust the height/tilt angle of the steering wheel,
roll the left scroll button up or down.
•
To move the steering wheel closer to you, or further
away from you, press the left scroll button to the left
or right.
WARNING:
adjustments while driving.
Do not make steering wheel
Adjusting Steering Eort
You can adjust the feel and sensitivity of the steering
system to suit your personal preference:
On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Pedals &
1.
Steering > Steering Mode.
Choose a steering option:
2.
Comfort - Reduces the eort required to turn the
◦
steering wheel. In town, Model 3 feels easier to
drive and park.
Standard - Tesla believes that this setting oers
◦
the best handling and response in most
conditions.
Sport - Increases the eort required to turn the
◦
steering wheel. When driving at higher speeds,
Model 3 feels more responsive.
1. Use the left scroll button to:
◦ Control the volume. Press the scroll button to
mute/unmute the volume, roll the scroll button up
to increase the volume or down to decrease the
volume.
NOTE: The scroll button adjusts the volume for
media, navigation instructions or phone calls
based on what is currently in use. As you adjust
volume, the touchscreen displays the volume level
and whether you are adjusting volume for media,
navigation or phone calls.
◦ Push the scroll button to the right to go to the
next song, station, or Favorite (depending on
what's playing). Push the scroll button to the left
to return to the previous selection.
◦ Adjust the position of the exterior mirrors (see
Adjusting Exterior Mirrors on page 47).
Adjust the position of the steering wheel (see
◦
Adjusting Steering Wheel Position on page 45).
◦ Adjust the angle of the headlights (see Headlight
Adjustments on page 54).
Use the right scroll button to:
2.
Speak a voice command. Press the button to
◦
initiate a voice command (see Voice Commands
on page 144).
When using Trac-Aware Cruise Control, adjust
◦
your set speed and the distance you want to
maintain from a vehicle traveling ahead of you
Trac-Aware Cruise Control on page 82).
(see
NOTE: The arrows associated with the scroll buttons are
backlit in low ambient lighting conditions. To turn this
backlighting on or o, touch Controls > Lights >
Steering Wheel Lights.
Scroll Buttons
A scroll button is located on each side of the steering
wheel. Use your thumb to press this button to the right
or left. You can also press the button or roll it up or
down.
To restart the touchscreen, press and hold both scroll
buttons until after the touchscreen turns black. See
Restarting the Touchscreen on page 49.
Horn
To sound the horn, press and hold the center pad on the
steering wheel.
45Driving
Page 48
Steering Wheel
46 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 49
Mirrors
Adjusting Exterior Mirrors
Adjust the exterior mirrors by touching Controls >
Mirrors. Press the left scroll button on the steering wheel
to choose whether you are adjusting the Left or Right
mirror. Then use the left scroll button as follows to adjust
the selected mirror to its desired position:
To move the mirror up or down, roll the left scroll
•
button up or down.
•
To move the mirror inward or outward, press the left
scroll button to the left or right.
NOTE: Both exterior mirrors have heaters that turn on
and o with the rear window defroster.
Mirror Auto Tilt
Both exterior mirrors can automatically tilt downward
when Model 3 is shifted into Reverse. When you shift
back into another drive mode, the mirrors return to their
normal upward position.
To turn this feature on or o, touch Controls > Mirrors >
Mirror Auto Tilt.
Mirror Auto Fold
Both exterior mirrors can automatically fold inward
whenever you exit and lock Model 3. When you unlock
Model 3, the exterior mirrors then automatically unfold.
To turn this feature on or o, touch Controls > Mirrors >
Mirror Auto Fold.
Mirrors remain folded until your driving speed reaches 31
mph (50 km/h), or until you touch Controls > Unfold
Mirrors. You can also fold/unfold mirrors manually, or
fold mirrors automatically at specific locations. See
Folding Mirrors at Specific Locations on page 47.
NOTE: If you expect ice to accumulate when Model 3 is
parked, turn o Mirror Auto Fold. Accumulation of ice
can prevent exterior side mirrors from folding or
unfolding. See
75 for information on how to ensure your mirrors
function properly in cold weather.
Mirror Auto Dim
When certain environmental conditions are met, the rear
view mirror and exterior side mirrors dim automatically
(for example, in low light conditions or to reduce glare
when driving at night). To enable or disable this feature,
Controls > Mirrors > Mirror Auto Dim.
touch
Availability of this feature depends on market region and
date of manufacture.
Cold Weather Best Practices on page
Folding Mirrors at
Specific
Locations
In addition to having mirrors fold automatically
whenever you park Model 3, you can fold (and unfold)
mirrors anytime your driving speed is less than
(50 km/h). This is useful for parking in tight spaces. To
do so, touch Controls > Fold Mirrors.
When you fold mirrors, a Location Saved popup briefly
displays below the Fold Mirrors control. When Location
Saved is enabled, mirrors automatically fold whenever
you approach the location, saving you from having to
manually fold them each time you arrive at a frequently
visited location (such as narrow garages, tight parking
spaces, etc.). If you do not want the location saved,
simply touch
toggles between Location Saved and Save Location to
allow you to specify whether or not you want mirrors to
automatically fold as you approach your current
location.
NOTE: To save or unsave a location at which the mirrors
fold, Model 3 must be driving at a low speed (less than 3
mph (5 km/h)) or stopped at the location you want your
vehicle to remember.
CAUTION:
you return to a saved location driving faster than 3
mph (5 km/h).
NOTE: When you leave the saved location, mirrors
remain folded until your driving speed reaches 31 mph
(50 km/h), or until you touch Controls > Unfold Mirrors.
When driving at or above this speed threshold, you can
not fold mirrors.
NOTE: You can also override the automatic folding/
unfolding of mirrors at any time (for example, Model 3
has no power) by pushing the mirror assembly away
from you to unfold, or pulling it toward you to fold.
You can integrate auto-folding mirrors with HomeLink
(see HomeLink Universal Transceiver on page 150). To
do so, touch the HomeLink icon on the top of the
Controls screen and enable Auto-Fold Mirrors when
Nearby.
Location Saved to disable it. This popup
Mirrors may not automatically fold if
31 mph
Rear View Mirror
The rear view mirror is adjusted manually. When in Drive
or Neutral, the rear view mirror automatically dims in low
lighting conditions based on the time of day (for
example, when driving at night).
Vanity Mirrors
To expose and illuminate the vanity mirror, fold the sun
visor downwards, then use the tab to lower the mirror
cover. After closing the mirror cover, the light turns
o.
47Driving
Page 50
Mirrors
48 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 51
Starting and Powering O
Starting
When you open a door to enter Model 3, the
touchscreen powers on and you can operate all controls.
To drive Model 3:
1. Press the brake pedal - Model 3 powers on and is
ready to drive.
Select a drive mode - move the drive stalk down for
2.
Drive or up for Reverse (see
NOTE: If the PIN to Drive feature is enabled (see PIN to
Drive on page 146), you must also enter a valid PIN on
the touchscreen before you can drive
Everything you need to know when driving Model 3
displays on the touchscreen.
Drive Disabled - Requires Authentication
If Model 3 does not detect a key when you press the
brake (a key fob or phone key is not detected or two
minutes have passed since you used the key card), the
touchscreen displays a message telling you that driving
requires authentication.
Shifting on page 51).
Model 3.
Powering
When you finish driving, shift into Park by pressing the
button on the end of the drive stalk. When you leave
Model 3 with your phone key and key fob, it powers o
automatically, turning o the touchscreen.
Model 3 also powers o automatically after being in
Park for 30 minutes, even if you are sitting in the driver’s
seat.
Although usually not needed, you can power o Model 3
while sitting in the driver’s seat, provided the vehicle is
not moving. Touch
3 automatically powers back on again if you press the
brake pedal or touch the touchscreen.
NOTE: Model 3 automatically shifts into Park whenever it
determines that you are exiting the vehicle (for example,
the driver's seat belt is unbuckled and the vehicle is
almost at a standstill). If you shift into Neutral,
shifts into Park when you open the door to exit. To keep
Model 3 in Neutral, you will need to activate Transport
Mode (see Instructions for Transporters on page 204).
O
Controls > Safety > Power O. Model
Model 3
Restarting the Touchscreen
If you see this message, place the key card behind the
cup holders where the RFID transmitter can read it. The
two-minute authentication period restarts and you can
Model 3 by pressing the brake pedal.
start
A number of factors can aect whether Model 3 can
detect a phone key or key fob (for example, the device's
battery is low or dead and is no longer able to
communicate using Bluetooth).
Always keep your phone key, key fob, or a key card with
you. After driving, your key is needed to restart Model 3
after it powers o. And when you leave Model 3, you
must bring your key with you to lock Model 3, either
manually or automatically.
You can restart your touchscreen if it is unresponsive or
demonstrates unusual behavior.
WARNING:
vehicle is stopped and in Park. The car status
display, safety warnings, backup camera, etc. will
not be visible during the restart.
Shift into Park.
1.
Hold down both scroll buttons on the steering wheel
2.
until the touchscreen turns black.
After a few seconds, the Tesla logo appears. Wait
3.
approximately 30 seconds for the touchscreen to
restart. If the touchscreen is still unresponsive or
demonstrating unusual behavior after a few minutes,
try power cycling the vehicle. See
Vehicle on page 50.
Only restart the touchscreen while the
Power Cycling the
NOTE: Restarting the touchscreen using the scroll
buttons does not power Model 3 o and on.
49Driving
Page 52
Starting and Powering O
Power Cycling the Vehicle
You can power cycle Model 3 if it demonstrates unusual
behavior or displays a nondescript alert.
Shift into Park.
1.
2. On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Safety > Power
O.
Wait for at least two minutes without interacting with
3.
the vehicle. Do not open the doors, touch the brake
pedal, touch the touchscreen, etc.
4.
After two minutes, press the brake pedal or open the
door to wake the vehicle.
50 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 53
Shifting
How to Shift
When Model 3 is in Park, you must press the brake pedal
to shift.
Move the drive stalk up or down to shift into dierent
drive modes.
Model 3
the driver's seat. To stay in Neutral, use the touchscreen
to engage Transport Mode (see Instructions for
Transporters on page 204).
automatically shifts into Park when you leave
Drive
Push the drive stalk all the way down and release. You
can shift into Drive when Model 3 is stopped or moving
less than
NOTE: When in Drive, push the drive stalk all the way
down and release to enable cruise control (see Trac-
Aware Cruise Control on page 82) and push the stalk
down twice in quick succession to enable Autosteer (see
Autosteer on page 87).
5 mph (8 km/h) in Reverse.
Park
Press the end of the drive stalk while Model 3 is stopped.
If you try to shift when it is prohibited by the current
driving speed, a chime sounds and the drive mode does
not change.
Reverse
Push the drive stalk all the way up and release. You can
only shift into Reverse when Model 3 is stopped or
moving less than 5 mph (8 km/h).
Neutral
Neutral allows Model 3 to roll freely when you are not
pressing the brake pedal:
When in Park, shift into Neutral by briefly pushing the
•
drive stalk either up or down to the first position.
When in Drive, shift into Neutral by briefly pushing
•
the drive stalk up to the first position. If Autosteer or
Trac-Aware Cruise Control (if equipped) is active,
you must push the drive stalk up to the first position
and hold it there for more than 1 second. In doing so,
Autosteer or
When in Reverse, shift into Neutral by briefly pushing
•
the drive stalk down to the first position.
NOTE: You must press the brake pedal to shift out of
Neutral if driving slower than approximately 5 mph (8
km/h).
Trac-Aware Cruise Control is disabled.
Model 3 automatically shifts into Park whenever you
connect a charge cable or if two or more of the
following conditions are met simultaneously while
traveling slower than approximately 1.5 mph (2 km/h):
The driver's seat belt is unbuckled.
•
The occupancy sensor in the driver's seat does not
•
detect an occupant.
The driver's door is opened.
•
To make it convenient to pick up passengers, you can
also unlock all doors at any time by shifting into Park
then pressing the Park button a second time.
NOTE: You must press the brake pedal to shift out of
Park.
NOTE: The above conditions do not reflect a
comprehensive list of reasons why Model 3 may or may
not automatically shift into Park and, in certain
scenarios, it is possible for your vehicle to shift into Park
when only one of the above conditions is true.
WARNING:
are not functioning properly, press and hold the
Park button on the drive stalk to bring the vehicle
to a stop. Do not use this method to stop the
vehicle unless absolutely necessary.
In emergency situations, if the brakes
51Driving
Page 54
Shifting
WARNING: It is the driver's responsibility to always
ensure the vehicle is in Park before exiting. Never
rely on Model 3 to automatically shift into Park for
you; it might not work in all circumstances (for
example, if Creep or a slope causes the vehicle to
travel greater than approximately 1.5 mph (2 km/
h)).
52 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 55
Lights
Controlling Lights
Touch Controls > Lights on the touchscreen to access all
light controls, both interior and exterior.
You can also pull the turn signal stalk toward you to
display a popup that provides quick access to exterior
lights. For example, you can turn the headlights on or
continuously (overriding the default Auto High Beam
setting). The lights popup allows you to adjust all
exterior light settings, including parking lights, fog lights
(if equipped), etc. The setting you choose is retained for
the current drive only.
NOTE: If the touchscreen is already displaying the full
Controls screen for lights, pulling the turn signal stalk
does not display the quick access popup.
In addition to the lights you can control from the
touchscreen, Model 3 has convenience lights that
operate automatically based on what you are doing. For
example, in low ambient lighting conditions, the interior
lights, marker lights, tail lights, and puddle lights turn on
when you unlock
when you shift into Park. They turn o after a minute or
two, when you shift or lock Model 3. Use these settings
to control your vehicle's interior and exterior lights:
Model 3, when you open a door, and
o
CAUTION:
running lights are on. Be sure the rear lights are on
during low rear visibility conditions (for example,
when it is dark, foggy, snowy, or the road is wet,
etc.). Failure to do so can cause damage or serious
injury.
WARNING:
during low visibility conditions. Failure to do so
may result in a collision.
Fog Lights
A separate control is available to turn on fog lights (if
equipped). When on, fog lights operate whenever low
beam headlights are on. When headlights are turned o,
fog lights also turn o.
Dome Lights
Turn the interior dome (map) lights on or o. If set to
AUTO, all interior dome lights turn on when you unlock
Model 3, open a door upon exiting, or shift into Park.
The rear tail lights are o when daytime
Always ensure that headlights are on
Headlights
Exterior lights (headlights, tail lights, side marker lights,
parking lights, and license plate lights) are set to AUTO
each time you start Model 3. When set to AUTO, exterior
lights automatically turn on when driving in low lighting
conditions. If you change to a dierent setting, lights
always revert to AUTO on your next drive.
Touch one of these options to temporarily change the
exterior light setting:
OFF: Exterior lights turn o until you manually turn
•
them back on or until the next time you drive.
PARKING: Only the exterior side marker lights,
•
parking lights, tail lights and license plate lights turn
on.
ON: Exterior lights turn on.
•
NOTE: Any exterior lights (for example, daytime running
lights) that are required to remain on in your market
region will turn on as appropriate when driving, when
parked on
NOTE: Model 3 has a series of LED lights along the rim
of the headlights, also referred to as "signature" lights.
These lights automatically turn on whenever
powered on and a drive mode (Drive or Reverse) is
engaged.
specific types of roads, etc.
Model 3 is
You can also manually turn an individual dome light on
o by pressing its lens. If you manually turn a dome
or
light on, it turns o when Model 3 powers o. If Model 3
was already powered o when you manually turned the
light on, it turns o after 60 minutes.
NOTE: To control the backlighting on the steering wheel
buttons, touch Controls > Lights > Steering Wheel
Lights. If on, they turn on whenever headlights are on.
Ambient Lights
When enabled, interior ambient lights turn on whenever
the headlights are on.
Steering Wheel Lights
If you turn on Steering Wheel Lights, the arrows
associated with the scroll buttons are backlit in low
ambient lighting conditions.
53Driving
Page 56
Lights
High Beam Headlights
By default, Auto High Beam is enabled to allow high
beam headlights to automatically switch to low beam
when there is light detected in front of Model 3 (for
example, from an oncoming vehicle). To control this
feature, touch
touch Auto on the lights popup that displays on the
touchscreen when you pull the turn signal stalk toward
you.
NOTE: Auto High Beam is automatically enabled when
Autosteer is engaged for vehicles manufactured after
approximately April 27, 2021. To switch to low beam
headlights, push the turn signal stalk forward and
release. Auto High Beam is re-enabled every time
Autosteer is activated.
In situations where high beam headlights are o (for
example, lights are turned o, or Auto High Beam is
active and light is detected in front of
are driving in daylight, you can temporarily turn on high
beams by pulling the turn signal stalk toward you. When
you release, high beam headlights turn
course, Auto High Beam is engaged and light is not
detected in front of you). To
headlights, pull the turn signal stalk towards you and
immediately release.
Controls > Lights > Auto High Beam or
Model 3) or you
o (unless of
briefly flash the high beam
Auto High Beam is enabled and high
beams are on.
the high beams if light is detected.
Auto High Beam is enabled but high beams
are not on because light is detected in
front of
detected, high beams automatically turn
back on.
WARNING:
subject to limitations. It is the driver's
responsibility to make sure that the headlights are
appropriately adjusted for weather conditions and
driving circumstances.
Auto High Beam is an aid only and is
Model 3 is ready to turn o
Model 3. When light is no longer
Headlights After Exit
When Headlights after Exit is on, the exterior headlights
remain on when you stop driving and park
low lighting conditions. They automatically turn o after
one minute or when Model 3 locks. When o, headlights
turn o when you engage Park and open a door.
To turn this feature on or o, touch Controls > Lights >
Headlights after Exit.
Model 3 in
NOTE: Your chosen setting is retained until you manually
change it.
The following indicator lights are visible on the
touchscreen to show the status of the headlights:
Low beam headlights are on.
High beam headlights are on and Auto
High Beam is disabled or currently
unavailable.
Headlight Adjustments
To adjust the angle of the headlights, touch Controls >
Service > Adjust Headlights, then follow the onscreen
instructions. You can choose which headlight you would
like to adjust by selecting it on the touchscreen.
NOTE: Headlights do not require adjustments when
temporarily driving into a region where the
direction is dierent (for example, driving in right-hand
trac region, and then driving into a region with lefthand trac).
WARNING:
headlights. Tesla has carefully calibrated the
position of the headlights to be in an optimum
position for most driving scenarios. Tesla
recommends that you do not adjust headlights
unless you are familiar with how headlights should
be adjusted. Once adjusted, you will be unable to
automatically restore them to their originally
calibrated position. Contact Tesla for assistance
when adjusting headlights.
Proceed with caution when adjusting
trac
Turn Signals
The turn signals flash three times or continuously,
depending on how far up or down you move the stalk.
Lightly push the turn signal stalk up or down for a three-
flash sequence. For a continuous signal, push the stalk
fully up or down.
54 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 57
The turn signals stop operating when canceled by the
steering wheel, by moving the stalk in the opposite
direction, or lightly pushing the stalk in the same
direction once more.
Lights
NOTE: Hazard warning flashers operate even when
Model 3 cannot detect a key.
The corresponding turn signal indicator
lights up on the touchscreen when a turn
signal is operating.
clicking sound.
The corresponding turn signal indicator
lights up on the touchscreen when a turn
signal is operating.
clicking sound.
WARNING:
Cruise Control, engaging a turn signal can cause
Model 3 to accelerate in specific situations (see
Overtake Acceleration on page 85).
WARNING:
engaging a turn signal can cause Model 3 to
change lanes (see Auto Lane Change on page
89).
When actively using Trac-Aware
When actively using Autosteer,
Model 3 also emits a
Model 3 also emits a
Hazard Warning Flashers
To turn on the hazard warning flashers, press the button
located above the rear view mirror. All turn signals flash.
Press the button again to turn o the hazard warning
flashers.
55Driving
Page 58
Car Status
Overview
The touchscreen displays the status of Model 3 at all
times. What you see depends on whether the vehicle is:
Parked (shown below).
•
• Driving (see Driving Status on page 57).
• Charging (see Charging Status on page 163).
When Model 3 is parked, the status area shows the drive
mode, estimated range, and an overhead view of the car
with buttons you can touch to open the trunks and
charge port door. When you press the brake, Model 3
powers up and indicator lights flash briefly. Unless an
indicator light applies to the current situation (for
example, a seat belt is not fastened), it should turn o. If
an indicator light fails to turn on or o, contact Tesla.
NOTE: The following image is provided for
demonstration purposes only. Depending on vehicle
options, software version, and market region, the
information displayed may be slightly dierent.
Indicator Lights
The following indicator lights illuminate to advise you or
alert you of a
specific status or condition.
A brake system fault is detected or the
brake fluid level is low. See Braking and
Stopping on page 60. Contact Tesla
immediately.
A brake booster fault has been detected.
See Braking and Stopping on page 60.
An ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) fault is
detected. See Braking and Stopping on
page 60. Contact Tesla immediately.
A parking brake fault is detected. Contact
Tesla. See Parking Brake on page 62.
The parking brake is manually applied. See
Parking Brake on page 62.
Tire pressure warning. The pressure of a
tire is out of range. If a fault with the Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is
detected, the indicator flashes. For a TPMS
fault, contact Tesla. See Tire Care and
Maintenance on page 169.
A seat belt for an occupied seat is not
fastened. See Seat Belts on page 27.
Airbag safety. If this indicator does not
flash on briefly when Model 3 prepares to
drive, or if it remains on, contact Tesla
immediately. See Airbag Warning Indicator
on page 42.
Front fog lights are on, if equipped. See
Lights on page 53.
Parking lights are on (side marker lights,
tail lights, and license plate lights) . See
Lights on page 53.
56 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 59
Car Status
Low beam headlights are on.
High beam headlights are on and Auto
High Beam is disabled or currently
unavailable.
Auto High Beam is enabled and high
beams are on. Model 3 is ready to turn o
the high beams if light is detected. See
High Beam Headlights on page 54.
Auto High Beam is enabled but high beams
are not on because light is detected in
front of Model 3. When light is no longer
detected, high beams automatically turn
back on. See High Beam Headlights on
page 54.
This indicator flashes amber when the
electronic stability control systems are
actively minimizing wheel spin by
controlling brake pressure and motor
power. See Traction Control on page 64.
If this indicator remains on, a fault is
detected and you should immediately
contact Tesla.
Vehicle power is currently being limited
because the energy remaining in the
Battery is low, the vehicle's systems are
being heated or cooled, or an error is
detected by the drive inverter .
Driving Status
When Model 3 is driving (or ready to drive), the
touchscreen shows your current driving status and a
real-time visualization of the road as detected by the
Autopilot components (see
79). The visualization automatically zooms in and out
to better utilize touchscreen space and inform you when
a vehicle is detected in your blind spot.
NOTE: The following illustration is provided for
demonstration purposes only. Depending on vehicle
options, software version, and market region, the
information displayed may be slightly dierent.
About Autopilot on page
Electronic stability control systems are no
longer minimizing wheel spin. On a Rear
Wheel Drive vehicle, the traction control
system has been turned o, or on an AllWheel Drive vehicle, Slip Start has been
enabled. See
64.
Vehicle Hold is actively applying the
brakes. See Vehicle Hold on page 67.
A door or trunk is open. See Doors on
page 11, Rear Trunk on page 14, or Front
Trunk on page 16.
A blue snowflake appears when some of
the energy stored in the Battery may not
be available due to cold weather
conditions. During these cold weather
conditions, charging rates may also be
limited. If
heat your Battery by turning on climate
control with the mobile app. The snowflake
disappears when the Battery is suciently
warm.
Traction Control on page
Model 3 is plugged in, you can
NOTE: When full self-driving is enabled (if equipped),
the car status area displays visualizations of the road
and your vehicle's surroundings. You can expand the
visualization by dragging the car status area from side
to side. This displays more details about the roadway
and its surroundings including road markings, stop
lights, and objects (such as trash cans and poles).
57Driving
Page 60
Car Status
1. The power meter displays real-time power usage.
During acceleration, the bar fills to the right with a
gray color (or white if the display is dark) to
represent power being used. During deceleration
(when Model 3 is moving and you release your foot
from the accelerator pedal), the bar
with a green color to represent power being fed back
to the Battery by regenerative braking (see
Regenerative Braking on page 61).
2.
When Autosteer is available but you haven't activated
it, the icon is gray. When Autosteer is actively
steering Model 3, the icon is blue (see Autosteer on
page 87).
3. Currently selected drive mode: Park, Reverse, Neutral,
or Drive.
4. Driving speed.
5. Other cars detected on the road (as applicable).
Your Model 3. Colored lines radiate from the image of
6.
your
Model 3 as objects are detected (other
motorists, guard rails, etc.). The location of the lines
correspond to the location of the detected object.
The color of the lines (white, yellow, orange, or red)
represents the object's proximity to Model 3, with
white being the farthest and red being very close and
requiring your immediate attention. See Lane Assist
on page 110.
When Autosteer is active and detecting the driving
7.
lane, the lane is highlighted in blue (see Autosteer on
page 87).
NOTE: If Navigate on Autopilot is active, the driving
lane displays as a single blue line in front of Model 3
(see Navigate on Autopilot on page 92).
fills to the left
WARNING:
surrounding trac, some vehicles may not be
displayed. Never rely on the touchscreen to
determine if a vehicle is present (for example, in
your blind spot). Always use your mirrors and
perform shoulder checks.
Although the touchscreen shows
The speed limit that is currently being detected by
8.
Speed Assist (see Speed Assist on page 116).
NOTE: The icon associated with the detected speed
reflects the style of speed limit signs used in
limit
your market region.
Total estimated driving distance (or energy) available.
9.
Touch the displayed value to change how available
energy is displayed. You can toggle between driving
distance and percentage of battery energy remaining.
You can also change how energy is displayed by
touching
Controls on page 118).
NOTE: When anticipating when you need to charge,
use range estimates as a general guideline only.
10. The set cruising speed. When Trac-Aware Cruise
Control is available but you haven't set a cruising
speed, the number is gray
Control on page 82).
Controls > Display > Energy Display (see
(see Trac-Aware Cruise
WARNING:
messages that display at the bottom of the car
status area of the touchscreen. Ignoring these
messages can result in serious injury or death.
Pay attention to important alert
58 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 61
Wipers
To perform a single wipe with the windshield wipers,
press and immediately release the button on the end of
the turn signal stalk. You can access the wiper settings
from the main
wipers:
I - Intermittent, slow
Controls screen to adjust the speed of the
Wipers and Washers
II - Intermittent, fast
III - Continuous, slow
IIII - Continuous, fast
Auto: Model 3 detects whether or not it is raining. When
wipers are set to Auto and liquid is detected on the
windshield,
which they should wipe. If Model 3 does not detect
liquid on the windshield, the wipers do not wipe.
For one-touch access to the wipers, you can add the
wiper control to My Apps. See Customizing My Apps on
page 6.
NOTE: You can also adjust the windshield wiper speed
and frequency using voice commands (see Voice
Commands on page 144).
NOTE: Autopilot requires wipers to be set to AUTO for
vehicles manufactured after approximately April 27,
2021. This setting is automatic and you cannot change it.
Periodically check and clean the edge of the wiper
blades. If a blade is damaged, replace it immediately. For
details on checking and replacing wiper blades, see
Wiper Blades and Washer Jets on page 178.
Model 3 determines the optimal frequency at
CAUTION:
washing Model 3 to avoid the risk of damaging the
wipers.
Ensure the wipers are o before
Periodically top up washer
Windshield Washer Fluid on page 179).
fluid (see Topping Up
CAUTION:
that the hood is fully closed before using the
windshield wipers.
CAUTION:
blades are not frozen or adhered to the windshield.
Remove ice from the windshield before using the
wipers. Ice has sharp edges that can damage the
rubber on the blades.
To avoid damaging the hood, ensure
In harsh climates, ensure that the wiper
Windshield Washers
Fully press and hold the button on the end of the turn
signal stalk to spray washer fluid onto the windshield.
While spraying the windshield, the wipers turn on. After
releasing the button, the wipers perform two additional
wipes then, depending on vehicle and environmental
conditions, a third wipe a few seconds later.
59Driving
Page 62
Braking and Stopping
Braking Systems
WARNING: Properly functioning braking systems
are critical to ensure safety. If you experience a
problem with the brake pedal, brake calipers, or
any component of a Model 3 braking system,
contact Tesla immediately.
Model 3 has an anti-lock braking system (ABS) that
prevents the wheels from locking when you apply
maximum brake pressure. This improves steering control
during heavy braking in most road conditions.
During emergency braking conditions, the ABS
constantly monitors the speed of each wheel and varies
the brake pressure according to the grip available.
The alteration of brake pressure can be felt as a pulsing
sensation through the brake pedal. This demonstrates
that the ABS is operating and is not a cause for concern.
Keep
firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal while
experiencing the pulsing.
The ABS indicator
the touchscreen when you first start Model
3. If this indicator lights up at any other
time, an ABS fault has occurred and the
ABS is not operating. Contact Tesla. The
braking system remains fully operational
and is not
However, braking distances may increase.
Drive cautiously and avoid heavy braking.
If the
indicator at any time other than briefly
when you first start Model 3, a brake
system fault is detected, or the level of the
brake fluid is low. Contact Tesla
immediately. Apply steady pressure and
keep the brakes
a stop when safe to do so.
The
indicator if a brake booster fault is
detected. Apply steady pressure and keep
the brakes firm to stop the vehicle when
safety permits. Hydraulic Boost
Compensation will be active (see
Boost Compensation on page 61).
aected by an ABS failure.
touchscreen displays this red brake
touchscreen displays this yellow brake
briefly flashes yellow on
firm to bring the vehicle to
Hydraulic
WARNING:
the vehicle in front of you and be aware of
hazardous driving conditions. While the ABS can
improve stopping distance, it cannot overcome the
laws of physics. It also does not prevent the
danger of hydroplaning (where a layer of water
prevents direct contact between the tires and the
road).
CAUTION:
Automatic Emergency Braking on page 114) may
intervene to automatically brake in situations
where a collision is considered imminent.
Automatic Emergency Braking is not designed to
prevent a collision. At best, it can minimize the
impact of a frontal collision by attempting to
reduce your driving speed. Depending on
Automatic Emergency Braking to avoid a collision
can result in serious injury or death.
CAUTION:
are not functioning properly, press and hold the
Park button on the drive stalk to bring the vehicle
to a stop. Do not use this method to stop the
vehicle unless absolutely necessary.
Always maintain a safe distance from
Automatic Emergency Braking (see
In emergency situations, if the brakes
Dynamic Brake Lights (if equipped)
If you are driving over 30 mph (50 km/h) and brake
forcefully (or if Automatic Emergency Braking engages),
the brake lights flash quickly to warn other drivers that
Model 3 is rapidly slowing down. If Model 3 stops
completely, the hazard warning lights flash. Flashing
continues until you press the accelerator or manually
press the hazard lights button to turn them o (see
Hazard Warning Flashers on page 55).
NOTE: Dynamic brake lights will not flash while Track
Mode is enabled (see Track Mode on page 68).
NOTE: When towing a trailer (if applicable), the brake
lights on the trailer also operate as described above,
even when the trailer is not equipped with a separate
braking system.
WARNING:
always increase your following distance. Sudden
braking may result in skidding, jack-knifing, and
loss of control.
When towing a trailer (if applicable),
Brake Disc Wiping
Emergency Braking
In an emergency, fully press the brake pedal and
maintain firm pressure, even on low traction surfaces.
The ABS varies the braking pressure to each wheel
according to the amount of traction available. This
prevents wheels from locking and ensures that you stop
as safely as possible.
WARNING:
interrupts operation of the ABS and can increase
braking distance.
60 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so
To ensure brakes remain responsive in cold and wet
weather,
When cold and wet weather is detected, this feature
repeatedly applies an imperceptible amount of brake
force to remove water from the surface of the brake
discs.
Model 3 is equipped with brake disc wiping.
Page 63
Hydraulic Fade Compensation
Model 3 is equipped with hydraulic fade compensation.
This assists in monitoring brake system pressure and
ABS activity for instances of reduced brake
performance. If reduced brake performance is detected
(for example, as a result of brake fade, or cold or wet
conditions), you may hear a sound, feel the brake pedal
pull away from your foot, and notice a strong increase in
braking. Brake as you normally would and continue to
press the brake pedal without releasing or pumping the
brakes.
CAUTION: If brakes are not functioning properly,
stop the vehicle when safety permits and contact
Tesla Service. See Park on page 51 for information
on using the Park button to stop the vehicle in
case of emergency.
WARNING: Always maintain a safe driving distance
from the vehicle in front of you and exercise
caution when driving conditions are hazardous.
Brake disc wiping and hydraulic fade
compensation is not a substitute for adequately
applying the brakes.
Braking and Stopping
NOTE:
If Apply Brakes When Regenerative Braking is
Limited is enabled and applying the brakes, the brake
pedal may move and it may feel stier when pressed.
This is expected and does not change your ability to
slow down Model 3.
The power meter (a thin horizontal line centered at the
top of the touchscreen's car status area) displays realtime power usage:
1.
The left side of the power meter represents power
generated from regenerative braking, or power that is
used to slow down the vehicle. Power being fed back
to the Battery displays in green whereas power used
by the regular braking system displays in gray.
The right side of the power meter shows power that
2.
is used to accelerate the vehicle. During acceleration,
the power meter
represent the amount of power being used.
fills to the right with gray to
Hydraulic Boost Compensation
Model 3 is equipped with a brake booster that activates
the brakes when the brake pedal is pressed. Hydraulic
boost compensation provides mechanical assistance if
the brake booster fails. If a brake booster failure is
detected, the brake pedal feels
may hear a sound when you press the brake pedal. To
Model 3, apply steady force to the brake pedal
stop
without releasing or pumping. Drive cautiously and
maintain a safe distance from other road users—brake
pedal responsiveness and braking performance may be
degraded.
stier to press and you
Regenerative Braking
Whenever Model 3 is moving and your foot is o the
accelerator, regenerative braking slows down the vehicle
and feeds any surplus power back to the Battery. By
anticipating your stops and reducing or removing
pressure from the accelerator pedal to slow down, you
can take advantage of regenerative braking to increase
driving range.
Vehicle deceleration due to regenerative braking may
vary depending on the current state of the Battery. For
example, regenerative braking may be limited if the
Battery is cold or is already fully charged.
To experience the same amount of deceleration
whenever you release the accelerator pedal, regardless
of the state of the Battery, you can choose to have the
regular braking system automatically engage whenever
regenerative braking is limited. Touch
& Steering > Apply Brakes When Regenerative Braking
is Limited.
Controls > Pedals
NOTE: To ensure visibility when the display is dark,
power represented by the gray color displays as white.
NOTE: Installing winter tires with aggressive compound
and tread design may result in temporarily-reduced
regenerative braking power. However, your vehicle is
designed to continuously recalibrate itself, and after
changing tires it will increasingly restore regenerative
braking power after some straight-line accelerations. For
most drivers this occurs after a short period of normal
driving, but drivers who normally accelerate lightly may
need to use slightly harder accelerations while the
recalibration is in progress.
WARNING:
may experience loss of traction during
regenerative braking.
In snowy or icy conditions, Model 3
Stopping Mode
Regenerative braking decelerates Model 3 whenever you
release the accelerator pedal when driving. You can
choose what you want Model 3 to do once the driving
speed has been reduced to a very low speed (almost at
a stop) and both the accelerator pedal and brake pedal
are released. While in Park, touch
Steering > Stopping Mode and choose from these
options:
Creep: When close to, or at, a complete stop, the
•
motor continues to apply torque, moving Model 3
slowly forward (in Drive) or backwards (in Reverse),
similar to a conventional vehicle with an automatic
transmission. In some situations, such as on a steep
hill or driveway, you may need to press the
accelerator pedal to continue moving or to prevent
Model 3 from moving in the opposite direction.
Controls > Pedals &
61Driving
Page 64
Braking and Stopping
WARNING: Never rely on Creep to apply
enough torque to prevent your vehicle from
rolling down a hill. Always press the brake pedal
to remain stopped or the accelerator pedal to
proceed up the hill. Failure to do so can result in
property damage and/or a collision.
•
Hold: Maximizes range and reduces brake wear by
continuing to provide regenerative braking at speeds
lower than with the Creep and Roll settings. When
Model 3 stops, the brakes are automatically applied
without you having to put your foot on the brake
pedal. Whether stopped on a flat surface or a hill,
Vehicle Hold keeps the brake applied, provided your
foot remains
See Vehicle Hold on page 67.
WARNING:
decelerate or fully stop your vehicle. Many
factors can contribute to a longer stopping
distance, including downward slopes, and
reduced or limited regenerative braking (see
Regenerative Braking on page 61). Always be
prepared to use the brake pedal to adequately
decelerate or stop.
Roll: When close to, or at, a complete stop, Model 3
•
becomes free rolling like a vehicle in Neutral.
Therefore, if stopped on a slope, Model 3 will roll
downward. The brake does not engage, and the
motor does not apply torque (until the accelerator
pedal is pressed).
NOTE: If you choose Creep or Roll, you can still use
Vehicle Hold to apply the brakes. However, you will
need to
vehicle is stopped. See Vehicle Hold on page 67.
NOTE: When Model 3 is in Track Mode (see Track
Mode on page 68), Roll is automatically enabled,
regardless of your chosen setting. When no longer in
Track Mode,
setting.
WARNING:
when unsafe to do so. It is your responsibility to
stay alert and be in control of the vehicle at all
times. Failure to do so can result in serious
damage, injury, or death.
WARNING:
and your chosen Stopping Mode to keep you and
your vehicle safe. Various factors such as driving
with a heavy vehicle load, on a steep hill, or on wet
or icy roads aect deceleration rate and the
distance at which Model 3 will come to a stop.
Drive attentively and always stay prepared to use
the brake pedal to stop as appropriate based on
trac and road conditions.
WARNING:
Automatic Emergency Braking do not operate
when driving at very low speeds (see Collision
Avoidance Assist on page 113). Do not rely on
these features to warn you, or to prevent or reduce
the impact of a collision.
o the accelerator and brake pedals.
Never rely on Hold to adequately
briefly press the brake pedal when the
Model 3 reverts back to your chosen
Press the brake pedal if Model 3 moves
Do not rely on regenerative braking
Forward Collision Warning and
Parking Brake
To engage the parking brake, touch Controls > Safety >
Parking Brake. Follow the onscreen instructions. You can
also engage the parking brake by pressing and holding
the button on the end of the drive stalk while in Park.
Use the touchscreen to manually release the parking
brake (which also shifts
1. Touch Controls > Safety.
Press the brake pedal, then touch Parking Brake. If
2.
Model 3 was previously in Park, it shifts into Neutral.
When you manually apply the parking
brake using the touchscreen,
pressing and holding the button on the end
of the drive stalk when in Park, the red
parking brake indicator lights up on the
touchscreen.
If the parking brake experiences an
electrical issue, the amber parking brake
indicator lights up and a fault message
displays on the
NOTE: The parking brake operates on the rear wheels
only, and is independent of the pedal-operated brake
system.
CAUTION:
electrical power, you cannot access the
touchscreen and are therefore unable to release
the parking brake without first jump starting Model
3 (see Instructions for Transporters on page 204).
WARNING:
wheels may not have sucient traction to prevent
Model 3 from sliding down a slope, particularly if
not using winter tires. Avoid parking on hills in
snowy or icy conditions. You are always
responsible for parking safely.
WARNING:
the road is too steep to safely park on, or if the
parking brakes are not properly engaged. These
alerts are for guidance purposes only and are not a
substitute for the driver’s judgment of safe parking
conditions, including specific road or weather
conditions. Do not depend on these alerts to
determine whether or not it is safe to park at any
location. You are always responsible for parking
safely.
In the unlikely event that Model 3 loses
In snowy or icy conditions the rear
Your Model 3 may display an alert if
Model 3 into Neutral):
or by
touchscreen.
62 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 65
Brake Wear
Model 3 brake pads are equipped with wear indicators.
A wear indicator is a thin metal strip attached to the
brake pad that squeals as it rubs against the rotor when
the pad wears down. This squealing sound indicates that
the brake pads have reached the end of their service life
and require replacement. To replace the brake pads,
contact Tesla Service.
Brakes must be periodically inspected visually by
removing the tire and wheel. For detailed specifications
and service limits for rotors and brake pads, see
Subsystems on page 193. Additionally, Tesla
recommends cleaning and lubricating the brake calipers
every year or 12,500 miles (20,000 km) if in an area
where roads are salted during winter months.
Braking and Stopping
WARNING:
damages the braking system and can result in a
braking hazard.
Neglecting to replace worn brake pads
63Driving
Page 66
Traction Control
How It Works
The traction control system constantly monitors the
speed of the front and rear wheels. If Model 3
experiences a loss of traction, the system minimizes
wheel spin by controlling brake pressure and motor
power. By default, the traction control system is on.
Under normal conditions, it should remain on to ensure
maximum safety.
This yellow indicator flashes on the
touchscreen whenever the traction control
system is actively controlling brake
pressure and motor power to minimize
wheel spin. If the indicator stays on, a fault
is detected with the traction control
system. Contact Tesla Service.
WARNING: Traction control cannot prevent
collisions caused by driving dangerously or turning
too sharply at high speeds.
Allowing Wheel Slip
To allow the wheels to spin at a limited speed, you can
enable Slip Start. Slip Start can be enabled at any speed,
however it is less eective at higher speeds.
Under normal conditions, Slip Start should not be
enabled. Enable it only in circumstances where you
deliberately want the wheels to spin, such as:
Starting on a loose surface, such as gravel or snow.
•
Driving in deep snow, sand or mud.
•
Rocking out of a hole or deep rut.
•
To allow the wheels to spin, touch Controls > Pedals &
Steering > Slip Start.
touchscreen displays an alert message
The
when Slip Start is enabled.
Although Slip Start is automatically disabled the next
time you start Model 3, it is strongly recommended that
you disable it immediately after the circumstances that
required you to enable it have passed.
NOTE: Slip Start can not be enabled when you are
actively using cruise control.
64 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 67
Park Assist
How Park Assist Works
Model 3 has several sensors designed to detect the
presence of objects. When driving slowly in Drive or
Reverse (for example, when parking), the vehicle alerts
you if an object is detected in close proximity of your
Model 3. Objects are only detected in your chosen
direction; front objects in Drive, rear objects in Reverse.
WARNING: You may not be alerted if Model 3 rolls
freely in the opposite direction (for example, Park
Assist does not display an alert if Model 3 rolls
backwards down a hill while in Drive).
WARNING:
you if an area you are approaching is free of
objects and/or people. Several external factors can
reduce the performance of Park Assist, causing
either no readings or false readings (see
Limitations and False Warnings on page 66).
Therefore, depending on Park Assist to determine
if Model 3 is approaching an obstruction can result
in damage to the vehicle and/or objects, and can
potentially cause serious injury. Always inspect the
area with your own eyes. When reversing, perform
shoulder checks and use all mirrors. Park assist
does not detect children, pedestrians, bicyclists,
animals, or objects that are moving, protruding,
located too far above or below the sensors, or too
close or too far from the sensors. Park Assist is for
guidance purposes only and is not intended to
replace your own direct visual checks. It is not a
substitute for careful driving.
Never depend on Park Assist to inform
Visual and Audio Feedback
When you shift to Reverse, the Park Assist view displays
on the
proximity to the front and rear of
closes when you shift into Drive unless an object is
detected close to the front of Model 3, in which case the
Park Assist view closes automatically when your driving
speed exceeds
feedback also displays on the touchscreen (see Rear
Facing Camera(s) on page 73). You can manually close
the park assist view on the touchscreen by touching the
X.
touchscreen, showing objects that are in close
Model 3. This view
5 mph (8 km/h). When reversing, visual
The sensors are activated when driving slower than
5 mph (8 km/h).
When driving with the Camera app displayed on the
touchscreen, you can switch to the Park Assist view
when driving at speeds below 5 mph (8 km/h). Touch
the button located in the upper left corner of the
Camera app screen. This is useful if you need assistance
with parallel parking.
If chimes are turned on (see Controlling Audible
Feedback on page 65), an audible beep sounds as you
approach an object.
NOTE: If a sensor is unable to provide feedback, the
touchscreen displays an alert message.
CAUTION:
snow, and ice. Avoid using a high pressure power
washer on the sensors and do not clean a sensor
with a sharp or abrasive object that can scratch or
damage its surface.
CAUTION:
or near the parking sensors.
Keep sensors clean from dirt, debris,
Do not install accessories or stickers on
Controlling Audible Feedback
You can use Park Assist with or without audible
feedback. To turn chimes on or o, touch Controls >
Safety > Park Assist Chimes.
65Driving
Page 68
Park Assist
Limitations and False Warnings
The parking sensors may not function correctly in these
situations:
One or more of the ultrasonic sensors (if equipped)
•
or cameras is damaged, dirty, or obstructed (such as
by mud, ice, or snow, or by a vehicle bra, excessive
paint, or adhesive products such as wraps, stickers,
rubber coating, etc.).
•
The object is located below approximately 8 inches
(20 cm) (such as a curb or low barrier).
CAUTION:
(such as curbs or low barriers) can move into
the blind spot of the sensors. Model 3 cannot
alert you about an object while it is in the blind
spot of the sensors.
• Weather conditions (heavy rain, snow, or fog) are
interfering with sensor operation.
The object is thin (such as a sign post).
•
A sensor’s operating range has been exceeded.
•
The object is sound-absorbing or soft (such as
•
powder snow).
The object is sloped (such as a sloped embankment).
•
Model 3 has been parked in, or being driven in,
•
extremely hot or cold temperatures.
The sensors (if equipped) are aected by other
•
electrical equipment or devices that generate
ultrasonic waves.
You are driving in a location where the sensors' (if
•
equipped) ultrasonic waves are deflected away from
the vehicle (such as driving next to a wall or pillar).
The object is located too close to the bumper.
•
A bumper is misaligned or damaged.
•
An object that is mounted to Model 3 is interfering
•
with and/or obstructing the sensor (such as a bike
rack or bumper sticker).
Model 3 rolls freely in the opposite direction you
•
selected (for example, Park Assist does not display an
alert if
Drive).
Model 3 rolls backwards down a hill while in
Shorter objects that are detected
Other Parking Aids
In addition to Park Assist, when shifted into Reverse, the
backup camera displays a view of the area behind Model
3 (see Rear Facing Camera(s) on page 73).
66 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 69
When Model 3 is stopped, Vehicle Hold can continue to
apply the brakes even after you remove your foot from
the brake pedal. When driving on a hill or on a flat
surface, brake as you normally would. After coming to a
complete stop, simply press the brake pedal again (until
the
touchscreen displays the Vehicle Hold indicator
light) to enable Vehicle Hold. You can then release the
brake pedal and remain stopped, even on a hill.
This indicator displays on the touchscreen
whenever Vehicle Hold is actively braking
Model 3.
To disengage Vehicle Hold, press the accelerator pedal
or press and release the brake pedal.
NOTE: Shifting into Neutral also disengages Vehicle
Hold.
NOTE: After actively braking Model 3 for approximately
ten minutes, Model 3 shifts into Park and Vehicle Hold
cancels. Model 3 also shifts into Park if it detects that
the driver has left the vehicle.
NOTE: When Stopping Mode is set to Hold (see
Stopping Mode on page 61), Vehicle Hold engages
automatically whenever Model 3 stops while in Drive or
Reverse. There is no need to press the brake to engage
it.
Vehicle Hold
67Driving
Page 70
Track Mode
Track Mode, available only on Performance Model 3
vehicles, is designed to modify the stability control,
traction control, regenerative braking, and cooling
systems to increase performance and handling while
driving on closed circuit courses. Track Mode improves
cornering ability by intelligently using the motors, and
regenerative and traditional braking systems. When
enabled, the cooling system runs at an increased level
during and after aggressive driving sessions to allow
your vehicle’s systems to withstand the surplus heat.
NOTE: Track Mode is designed and calibrated for a
Performance
brakes and tires. Vehicles without performance brakes
and tires may experience comparatively lower
performance and endurance.
WARNING:
closed circuit driving courses only. It is the driver’s
responsibility to drive safely and ensure others are
not endangered.
WARNING:
experienced track drivers familiar with the course.
Do not use on public roads. It is the driver’s
responsibility to be in control of the vehicle at all
times, including on the track. Because vehicle
behavior (including traction and stability control)
diers when using Track Mode, always use caution.
Model 3 equipped with performance
Track Mode is designed for use on
Track Mode is designed for use by
Using Track Mode
If you started the Lap Timer, each time you pass the
start/finish location, the timer resets for the next lap.
See Using the Lap Timer on page 69.
You can also view a real-time accelerometer (Gmeter) by swiping the Cards area of the touchscreen.
See
G-Meter on page 69.
When Track Mode is on:
◦
Autopilot features are unavailable.
◦
The Slip Start setting is overridden.
◦ Stopping Mode is set to the Roll setting in which
Model 3 is free-rolling at very low speeds
whenever Drive or Reverse is engaged and both
the accelerator and brake pedal are released. For
details, see
◦ Energy usage increases.
Entertainment features are unavailable.
◦
Use the touchscreen setting to turn Track Mode o at
any time. Powering o Model 3 also turns o Track
Mode (although it may still appear on the
touchscreen if Post-Drive cooling is in progress).
When Track Mode is
previous state and all features return to their normal
operating state.
Stopping Mode on page 61.
o, all settings return to their
Track Mode is always disabled when you start Model 3.
To enable Track Mode for your current drive, shift into
Park and follow these steps:
Touch Controls > Pedals & Steering > Track Mode.
1.
When enabled, TRACK displays on the touchscreen
above the driving speed, and a Track Mode pop up
window appears on the map. The car status area of
the touchscreen displays a color-coded image of your
Model 3 that provides you with important at-a-glance
status information about the Battery, the motors, the
tires and the brakes. See
on page 69.
If desired, customize the Track Mode settings by
2.
touching Track Mode Settings on the Track Mode pop
up window (see Customizing Track Mode on page
68). You can also access the Track Mode settings by
touching
Customize next to the Track Mode setting.
3. If you want to use the Lap Timer, follow the onscreen
instructions to drop a pin on the map to define the
lap's
START on the Lap Timer to begin your driving
session. Once started, the Lap Timer starts counting
when you drive Model 3 past the lap's start/finish
location where you dropped the pin. See Using the
Lap Timer on page 69.
Shift and GO!
4.
Controls > Pedals & Steering, then touching
start/finish location. You will then need to press
Monitoring Vehicle Health
Customizing Track Mode
To customize Track Mode, touch Track Mode Settings on
the Track Mode popup window that appears on the map
when you enable Track Mode. You can also access the
Track Mode settings by touching
Steering, then touching Customize next to the Track
Mode setting. Choose an existing Track Mode setting
from the list of pre-defined profiles provided by Tesla. Or
create a new settings profile by touching Add New
Settings, entering a name for the settings profile, then
adjusting these settings to suit your preferences or
driving scenario, or customize for a specific track:
Handling Balance - Drag the slider to customize the
•
balance of Model 3 in a turn. If Model 3 is too loose,
you can choose a front-biased under-steering setup.
Dicult to get the vehicle through a turn? Try a rearbiased setup to increase rotation. You can select any
value, in 5% increments, between 100/0 (for 100%
front biased used for under-steering) and 0/100 (for
100% rear biased used for over-steering).
• Stability Assist - Drag the slider to choose the level at
which the stability control systems assist in
controlling the vehicle. You can choose any level from
-10 to +10. Choosing +10 engages all stability assist
systems for controllable driving in which stability
systems remain engaged, whereas -10 disables all
stability systems and the stability of the drive rests
solely on the driver. The default setting of 0
Controls > Pedals &
68 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 71
Track Mode
represents a balance which provides some stability
being automatically controlled and leaving some
control up to the driver.
• Regenerative Braking - Drag the slider to choose how
much regenerative braking is available. You can
choose any value, in 5% increments, between 0 and
100%. Tesla recommends the 100% setting to prevent
overheating the brakes.
•
Post-Drive Cooling - Enable if you want the cooling
systems to continue cooling the vehicle's
components even after you leave the vehicle. Cooling
stops automatically when the components are
suciently cool, or when you power Model 3 o and
back on again. Post-Drive Cooling is useful if you
want to quickly cool the components between
driving sessions. If Post-Drive Cooling is set to OFF,
the components eventually cool, but it takes longer.
Save Dashcam for Laps - Enable if you want to save a
•
video and data on a USB
Lap Timer. A USB flash drive must be set up and
inserted as described (see USB Drive Requirements
for Recording Videos on page 21). The USB flash
drive must contain a folder named TeslaTrackMode.
When enabled, Track Mode stores a video and
associated data for each lap. Track Mode also stores
the car status and telemetry data with details about
the vehicle's position, speed, acceleration, use of
accelerator, etc. You can then view the video
recordings and analyze this data, which is saved as
a .CSV
time is being lost or gained.
NOTE: For some vehicles manufactured after
approximately November 1, 2021, the center console
USB ports may only support charging devices. Use
the USB port inside the glove box for all other
functions.
Track Mode allows you to save up to 20 settings profiles.
To delete a chosen profile, touch Delete at the bottom of
the settings screen.
NOTE: You can not change or delete a pre-defined
profile provided by Tesla.
file on the USB flash drive, to determine where
flash drive when using the
Using the Lap Timer
When you enable Track Mode, the map displays a Lap
Timer. Follow the onscreen instructions to place a start/
finish pin on the map. Once the pins are placed, press
START to initiate the driving (lapping) session. When
you drive
Lap Timer automatically starts timing the duration of the
lap, resetting the timer whenever you pass the start/
finish location, and displaying the real-time delta
between the current lap and the fastest lap so far in the
driving session. The map highlights the track in blue.
Model 3 through the start/finish location, the
If
Save Dashcam for Laps is on (see Customizing Track
Mode on page 68), and a properly formatted USB flash
drive is inserted in a front USB port, Track Mode saves a
video of the driving session (as recorded by the front
cameras), along with a .CSV file that provides detailed
information about the lap.
NOTE: To stop the timer at the end of your driving
session, touch STOP on the Lap Timer popup window.
Monitoring Vehicle Health
You can easily monitor the health of Model 3 when using
Track Mode by glancing at the car status area of the
touchscreen. The colors indicate the status of the
various components, allowing you to determine the
current operating state and make decisions accordingly.
The components are displayed in green when operating
within their ideal temperature range. Colors change as
follows:
The Battery displays blue when cold and red when
•
hot.
A brake displays blue when cold and red when hot
•
(an early warning for overheating brakes).
A motor displays blue when it's cold or red when it's
•
hot.
A tire displays blue when under-used or red when the
•
peak grip is exceeded.
NOTE: A component displayed in red may indicate a
need to stop driving and allow the component to cool.
CAUTION:
by using Track Mode is the driver's responsibility.
The vehicle warranty does not cover damage
caused by excessive overuse of vehicle
components. It also does not cover racing,
autocross, or driving in competition.
Any vehicle damage or injuries caused
G-Meter
In Track Mode, a real-time G-Meter displays on the
touchscreen. The G-Meter graphically displays peak
lateral, acceleration, and deceleration values in the form
of a circular meter. The history of your drive is
represented in the shaded area. The G-Meter resets at
the start of each driving session.
NOTE: You can swipe the G-Meter card to display a
dierent card. However, the G-Meter displays as the
default card whenever you engage Track Mode.
At the completion of each lap, the Lap Timer displays
the duration of the lap. It also displays the times
associated with the previous and best laps in the driving
session.
69Driving
Page 72
Trip Information
Displaying Trip Information
Trip information displays on the touchscreen when you
touch Controls > Trips. For the current trip, you can
display distance, duration and average energy usage.
You can also show distance and total and average
energy used since your last charge and for additional
trips.
To name or rename a trip, touch the trip's name, enter a
new name for the trip, then press Save. To reset a
particular trip meter, touch its associated Reset button.
Odometer
To display the odometer, touch Controls > Software or
open the mobile app.
70 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 73
Getting Maximum Range
Factors Aecting Energy
Consumption
While driving:
Elevated driving speed.
•
• Environmental conditions such as cold or hot weather
and wind.
Using climate controls to heat or cool the cabin.
•
• Uphill travel: Driving uphill requires more energy and
depletes range at a faster rate. However, driving
downhill allows your vehicle to regain a portion of its
expended energy through regenerative braking (see
Regenerative Braking on page 61).
• Short trips or stop-and-go trac: It takes energy to
bring the cabin and Battery to a specified
temperature when starting the vehicle. You may see a
higher average consumption when the vehicle is used
for very short trips or in heavy trac.
Heavy cargo load.
•
Windows rolled down.
•
Wheels and tires not maintained.
•
Customized settings or third-party accessories (roof
•
or trunk racks, third-party wheels).
While parked and not plugged in to a charger:
Preconditioning the cabin or using climate controls.
•
Summon.
•
Vehicle infotainment and climate controls system.
•
Sentry mode.
•
Tesla or third-party mobile app requests.
•
Tips to Maximize Range
You can maximize your driving range using the same
driving habits you use to conserve fuel in a gasolinepowered vehicle. To achieve maximum range:
Slow down your driving and avoid frequent and rapid
•
acceleration. Consider using Chill Mode (touch
Controls > Pedals & Steering > Acceleration) and
Speed Assist (see Speed Assist on page 116) to
assist in controlling your acceleration and speed.
If safe to do so, modulate the accelerator pedal
•
instead of using the brake pedal when gradually
slowing down. Whenever Model 3 is moving and you
are not pressing the accelerator pedal, regenerative
braking slows down the vehicle and feeds surplus
energy back to the Battery (see
on page 61).
Regenerative Braking
• Limit the use of resources such as heating and air
conditioning. Using seat and
(if equipped) to keep warm is more ecient than
heating the cabin using climate controls.
• With your vehicle plugged in, use the mobile app to
precondition your vehicle to ensure the cabin is at a
comfortable temperature and windows are defrosted
(if needed) before your drive by touching
On and customizing your preferences (see Mobile
App on page 156).
• Touch Schedule, available on both the charging and
climate control screens, to set a time when you want
your vehicle to be ready to drive (see
Charging and Scheduled Departure on page 165).
Set Stopping Mode to Hold to gain the benefit of
•
regenerative braking at low driving speeds (see
Stopping Mode on page 61).
Ensure the wheels are aligned to specification, the
•
tires are kept at the recommended
(see Tire Care and Maintenance on page 169), and
are rotated when needed (see Maintenance on page
167).
Install aero covers (if equipped) to reduce wind
•
resistance (see Removing and Installing Aero Covers
on page 171).
Lighten your load by removing any unnecessary
•
cargo.
Fully raise all windows.
•
Features such as Sentry Mode and Cabin Overheat
•
Protection can impact range. Disable features when
not needed.
To prevent an excessive amount of energy
•
consumption while the vehicle is idle, keep the
vehicle plugged in when not in use.
Minimize the use of DC chargers (such as
•
Superchargers) for optimal Battery health.
It is normal for estimated range to decrease slightly over
the first few months before leveling o. Over time, you
may see a gradual, but natural, decrease in range at full
charge – this depends on factors such as Supercharging
regularly or the mileage and age of the Battery. Your
Model 3 will inform you in the unlikely event a hardware
issue is causing excessive Battery or range degradation.
The power meter on the touchscreen provides feedback
on energy usage.
You can also display the Energy app to view real-time
and projected energy usage (see Energy App on page
72). With this feedback, you can become familiar with
how driving habits and environmental conditions impact
how much energy
Model 3 is using.
steering wheel heaters
Climate >
Scheduled
inflation pressures
71Driving
Page 74
Getting Maximum Range
Range Assurance
The driving range displayed in Model 3 is an estimate of
the remaining battery energy based on EPA-rated
consumption. It may not account for your personal
driving patterns or external conditions. The displayed
range on the
actual distance driven. To view estimated range based
on your recent energy consumption, open the Energy
app to display the graph.
NOTE: Rated driving range is based on EPA-rated
consumption in the United States, which deviates from
tests advertised and performed in other jurisdictions.
Model 3 helps protect you against running out of energy.
Your vehicle continuously monitors its energy level and
proximity to known charging locations.
touchscreen may decrease faster than the
Chargers in the Navigation search
Touch
bar to toggle between types of chargers,
including Superchargers and destination
charging sites.
• Trip
: You can monitor the amount of energy being
used while navigating to a destination. You can track
actual usage against the initial prediction. The green
line represents the actual usage whereas the gray line
represents predicted usage. To change the zoom
level, touch the zoom icon located in the top right
corner of the chart.
NOTE: The Trip chart displays energy usage only if you
are currently navigating to a destination.
When you are at risk of driving beyond the range of
known charging locations, the touchscreen displays a
message giving you the opportunity to display a list of
charging locations that are within range. When you
select a charging location from the list,
navigation instructions and the turn-by-turn direction list
displays the predicted amount of energy that will remain
when you arrive at the charging destination.
Trip Planner (if available in your market region) routes
you through Supercharger locations to minimize the
amount of time you spend charging and driving. To
enable, touch
Trip Planner on page 133).
Controls > Navigation > Trip Planner (see
Model 3 provides
Energy App
The Energy app provides a visual representation of your
vehicle's real-time and projected energy usage. To use
the Energy app, navigate to
Energy on the touchscreen. Choose from two types of
charts:
Consumption: Display how much energy Model 3 has
•
consumed over the past 5, 15 or 30 miles (10, 25 or
50 km).
Application Launcher >
Touch Instant Range or Average Range to adjust the
projected range estimation. Instant Range uses only
the latest few data points to estimate the projected
range, whereas Average Range uses the past 5, 15 or
30 miles (10, 25 or 50 km) of energy consumption to
provide a more accurate projected range.
72 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 75
Rear Facing Camera(s)
Camera Location
Model 3 is equipped with a rear view camera located
above the rear license plate.
Whenever you shift into Reverse, the touchscreen
displays the view from the camera. Lines show your
driving path based on the position of the steering wheel.
These lines adjust as you move the
steering wheel.
Cleaning a Camera
To ensure a clear picture, the camera lens must be clean
and free of obstructions. Remove any build-up of dirt or
debris by spraying water onto the camera lens with a
spray bottle or pressure washer.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove dirt or debris
by wiping an exposed lens with your hands or a
cloth. This debris can damage the surface of the
lens when rubbed against it during wiping.
CAUTION: Do not use chemical-based or abrasive
cleaners. Doing so can damage the surface of the
lens.
Model 3 also displays images from the side cameras.
Simply swipe up or down to hide or show the side
camera views.
NOTE: Visual feedback from the parking sensors also
appear on the touchscreen (see Park Assist on page 65).
To display the view from the rear view
cameras at any time, open the app
launcher and touch the Camera app.
WARNING:
inform you if the area behind you is free of objects
and/or people. The cameras may not detect
objects or barriers that can potentially cause
damage or injury. In addition, several external
factors can reduce the performance of the
cameras, including a dirty or obstructed lens.
Therefore, depending on the cameras to determine
if Model 3 is approaching an obstruction can result
in damage to the vehicle and/or objects and can
potentially cause serious injury. Always inspect the
area with your own eyes. When reversing, perform
shoulder checks and use all mirrors. Use the
cameras for guidance purposes only. It is not
intended to replace your own direct visual checks
and is not a substitute for careful driving.
Never depend on the cameras to
73Driving
Page 76
Pedestrian Warning System
The Pedestrian Warning System (if equipped) causes
Model 3 to emit sound when driving below
approximately 19 mph (32 km/h) or while driving in
reverse. Electric vehicles operate quietly and this sound
helps to alert pedestrians of your oncoming vehicle. The
sound, which activates whenever
of Park, gets louder as speed increases.
NOTE: The Pedestrian Warning System may not be
available in vehicles manufactured prior to
approximately September 1, 2019.
WARNING: If sound cannot be heard, pedestrians
may not be aware of your oncoming vehicle, which
may increase the likelihood of a collision resulting
in serious injury or death. If the Pedestrian
Warning System is not operating, immediately
contact Tesla.
Model 3 is shifted out
74 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 77
Cold Weather Best Practices
To ensure that Model 3 provides you with the best
ownership experience possible in harsh cold weather
conditions, follow these best practices.
Before Driving
When snow and ice accumulate on your vehicle, moving
parts, such as the door handles, windows, mirrors, and
wipers can freeze in place. To achieve maximum range
and performance, it is helpful to warm the cabin and
Battery before you leave. There are several ways to do
so:
•
Touch Schedule, available on both the charging and
climate control screens, to set a time when you want
your vehicle to be ready to drive (see Scheduled
Charging and Scheduled Departure on page 165).
• On the mobile app, navigate to Climate to customize
the temperature at which you want to heat the cabin.
This also warms the high voltage Battery as needed.
• On the mobile app, navigate to Climate > Defrost Car
to melt snow, ice, and frost on the windshield,
windows, and mirrors. This also warms the high
voltage Battery as needed.
NOTE: Tesla recommends activating climate settings
at least 30-45 minutes before departure (see Climate
Controls on page 124). Preconditioning times
depend on outside temperature and other factors.
The Mobile App will notify you once your vehicle has
reached the desired preconditioning temperature.
In extremely cold weather or icy conditions, it is
•
possible that your charge port latch may freeze in
Some vehicles are equipped with a charge port
place.
inlet heater that turns on when you turn on the rear
defrost in cold weather conditions. You can also thaw
ice on the charge port latch by enabling Defrost Car
on the mobile app.
Warming the Battery using Scheduled Departure or
•
the mobile app before driving can also reduce
charging time at a Supercharger or third party fast
charger, especially if the Supercharger or third party
fast charger is close enough that Trip Planner (if
available in your market region) does not have
sucient time to precondition the Battery (see
Warming the Battery Before Supercharging on page
77).
CAUTION:
damage the paint prior to performing the
procedure, and do not attempt to use tools or
excessive force.
NOTE:
Preemptively applying WD-40 to the door handle
pivot pins can help prevent ice buildup inside your door
handle.
Perform the following to remove ice from the door
handle:
1. If your vehicle is equipped with black door handles,
press the frontmost part of the door handle to
initially try release light or moderate ice buildup.
Forcefully press the rear-most part of the door
2.
handle to try to open the door handle.
Working in a circular pattern around the perimeter of
3.
the door handle, use the bottom of your fist to
forcefully bump the door handle to break and release
the ice buildup.
Aiming for the rearmost end of the wide part of the
4.
door handle, use the bottom of your fist to forcefully
bump the door handle. Increase the intensity of the
bumps as necessary, repeating steps 1 through 3 until
the ice is removed and the door handle can be
opened.
CAUTION:
to cause a dent; the force used should be
similar to knocking on your neighbor’s front
door.
Remove any jewelry or objects that can
Never bump the vehicle so hard as
Removing Ice From Door Handle
In severe winter conditions, ice buildup within the door
handle can prevent the door handle from opening. The
process for freeing a Model 3 door handle is slightly
dierent than other door handles; you can usually
remove the ice with a few forceful bumps to the door
handle using the bottom of your
fist.
75Driving
Page 78
Cold Weather Best Practices
5.
Once the door handle is able to move, open and close
it a few more times to release any remaining ice
buildup. Make sure the door handle is fully pressed in
(retracted) prior to entering the vehicle, and check
that the door is fully closed before driving away.
Applying WD-40 to Door Handle Pivot Pins
In severe winter conditions, applying WD-40 to door
handle pivot pins can help prevent ice buildup that
might immobilize the handle. Consider applying WD-40
to the door handle pivot pins if you are expecting
freezing rain, heavy snow, or icy conditions. Reapply as
needed.
CAUTION:
warnings provided by WD-40 prior to performing
this procedure.
To apply WD-40 to the door handle pivot pin:
Read and observe the instructions and
5.
Remove the towel or other soft material used to prop
the door handle open.
6. Pivot the door handle in and out approximately ten
times.
For a second time, place the end of the straw next to
7.
the pivot pin and spray it for approximately one
second, taking care not to accidentally spray other
components.
NOTE: Rest the end of the straw on the top of the
spring around the pivot pin to better aim the spray.
Remove the towel or other soft material used to prop
8.
the door handle open.
Pivot the door handle in and out approximately ten
9.
times.
Perform this procedure on the other three door
10.
handles.
Windows
On the mobile app, navigate to Climate > Defrost as
Open the door handle and prop it open using a
1.
folded towel or other soft material.
Attach the provided straw to the nozzle of the
2.
WD-40 bottle.
Put on eye protection.
3.
Place the end of the straw next to the pivot pin and
4.
spray it for approximately one second, taking care
not to accidentally spray other components.
NOTE: Rest the end of the straw on the top of the
spring around the pivot pin to better aim the spray.
WARNING:
when performing this step.
76 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Make sure eye protection is worn
•
mentioned previously.
and passenger windows to melt ice that could
prevent windows from moving.
Model 3 automatically makes a slight adjustment to
•
the position of the windows to make it easier to open
doors in cold temperature.
Use the mobile app to schedule a service
•
appointment for Tesla to provide hydrophobic
coating to your windows for a nominal fee.
Your vehicle heats the driver
Mirrors
If ice buildup is expected when parking, turn o AutoFold Mirrors. Touch Controls > Auto-Fold. Ice can
prevent exterior side mirrors from folding or unfolding.
NOTE: Side mirrors automatically heat as needed during
preconditioning, or when the rear defroster is turned on.
Page 79
Cold Weather Best Practices
Wipers
If you expect snow or ice to build up when parked, touch
Controls > Service > Wiper Service Mode. This raises
wipers against the windshield so they can defrost when
the windshield defrosts (see
page 59). You can also turn on wiper defrosters (if
equipped). See Climate Controls on page 124.
Wipers and Washers on
Tires and Tire Chains
•
Use winter tires to increase traction in snowy or icy
conditions. You can purchase winter tires on http://
www.tesla.com (see Seasonal Tire Types on page
173).
Tire chains provide additional traction when driving in
•
snowy or icy conditions. Check local regulations to
determine if tire chains are recommended or required
during winter months. See
174 for more information.
Your vehicle’s tire pressures will drop in cold ambient
temperatures. If the TPMS indicator light appears, inflate
the tires before driving. The tires will lose one PSI for
every 10° F (6° C) drop in outside temperature (see Tire
Care and Maintenance on page 169). Proper tire
pressures help protect tires from potholes and improve
range when properly inflated.
Using Tire Chains on page
While Driving
Cold weather can increase energy consumption because
more power is required for driving, cabin and Battery
heating. Follow these suggestions to reduce energy
consumption:
Use seat heaters to keep warm. Seat heaters use less
•
energy than the cabin heater. Lowering the cabin
temperature and using seat heaters reduces energy
consumption (see
Slow down your driving and avoid frequent and rapid
•
acceleration.
Climate Controls on page 124).
Blue
Snowflake Icon
A blue snowflake icon appears on your
touchscreen when some of the stored energy in
the Battery is unavailable because the Battery is
cold. This portion of unavailable energy displays
in blue on the Battery meter. Regenerative
braking, acceleration, and charging rates may be
limited. The
when the Battery is suciently warm.
snowflake icon no longer displays
Warming the Battery Before Supercharging
By using Trip Planner (if available in your market region)
to navigate to a Supercharger, Model 3 pre-heats the
Battery to ensure when you arrive at the Supercharger,
the Battery temperature is optimal and ready to charge.
This reduces the amount of time it takes to charge. See
(see
Trip Planner on page 133).
NOTE: Tesla recommends using Trip Planner to navigate
to a Supercharger for at least 30-45 minutes before
arrival to ensure optimal Battery temperature and
charging conditions. If the drive to the Supercharger is
less than 30-45 minutes, consider preconditioning the
Battery prior to driving (see
Before Driving on page 75).
Autopilot
To ensure optimal Autopilot performance, keep the
sensors free of snow, ice, mud, and dirt (see About
Autopilot on page 79).
After Driving
Leave Model 3 plugged in when not in use. This uses the
charging system, rather than the Battery itself, to keep
the Battery warm (see High Voltage Battery Information
on page 160).
Scheduled Departure
Regenerative Braking
Regenerative braking can be limited if the Battery is too
cold. As you continue to drive, the Battery warms up
and regenerative power increases (see Regenerative
Braking on page 61).
NOTE: Limited regenerative braking can be avoided if
you allow enough time to precondition your vehicle or if
you use Schedule to precondition Model 3 before your
departure time (see Scheduled Charging and Scheduled
Departure on page 165).
NOTE: Installing winter tires can result in temporarily
reduced regenerative braking power but after a short
period of driving, Model 3 recalibrates to correct this.
When parked, plug in Model 3 and use the Schedule
settings, available on both the charging and climate
control screens, to set a time when you want to
precondition
Scheduled Departure on page 165). Your vehicle
determines the appropriate time to begin charging so it
is complete during o-peak hours and the cabin and
Battery are warm by your set departure time. For more
information, see
Departure on page 165.
Model 3 (see Scheduled Charging and
Scheduled Charging and Scheduled
77Driving
Page 80
Cold Weather Best Practices
Charge Port
• If your charge port latch freezes in place and a
charging cable becomes stuck in the charge port, try
manually releasing the charge cable. See Manually
Releasing Charge Cable on page 166.
• Use the mobile app to precondition your vehicle to
help thaw ice on the charge port latch so that the
charge cable can be removed or inserted (see Mobile
App on page 156).
NOTE: You can also prevent the occurrence of a charge
port latch freezing in place by using the Schedule
settings (see Scheduled Charging and Scheduled
Departure on page 165).
NOTE: If your charge port latch is frozen in place, it may
not lock the charging cable in place when inserted, but it
can still charge at a slow AC rate even if the latch is not
engaged.
Storage
If you leave Model 3 parked for an extended period of
time, plug the vehicle into a charger to prevent normal
range loss and to keep the Battery at an optimal
temperature. Your vehicle is safe to stay plugged in for
any length of time.
When not in use, Model 3 enters a sleep mode to
conserve energy. Reduce the number of times you check
your vehicle’s status on the mobile app, as this
automatically wakes up your vehicle and starts normal
energy consumption.
78 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 81
About Autopilot
How It Works
Your Model 3 includes the following components that actively monitor the surrounding area:
1.
A camera is mounted above the rear license plate.
Ultrasonic sensors (if equipped) are located in the front and rear bumpers.
2.
A camera is mounted in each door pillar.
3.
Three cameras are mounted to the windshield above the rear view mirror.
4.
A camera is mounted to each front fender.
5.
Radar (if equipped) is mounted behind the front bumper.
6.
Model 3 is also equipped with high precision electronically-assisted braking and steering systems.
In addition, the cabin camera can determine driver inattentiveness and provide alerts when Autopilot is engaged. By
default, data from the camera does not leave the vehicle itself. In other words, data is not saved or transmitted
unless you enable data sharing. To enable data sharing, touch Controls > Software > Data Sharing > Allow Cabin
Camera Analytics. Cabin Camera Analytics helps Tesla continue to develop even safer vehicles in the future. See
Cabin Camera on page 117.
NOTE: Ensure all cameras and sensors (if equipped) are clean before each drive. See Cleaning Cameras and Sensors
on page 81 for more information. Dirty cameras and sensors, as well as environmental conditions such as rain and
faded lane markings, can
aect Autopilot performance.
79Autopilot
Page 82
About Autopilot
Active Safety Features
These Active Safety features are designed to increase
your safety:
Lane Assist (see Lane Assist on page 110)
•
• Collision Avoidance Assist (see Collision Avoidance
Assist on page 113)
Speed Assist (see Speed Assist on page 116)
•
• Cabin Camera (see Cabin Camera on page 117)
You can enable/disable some of these features and in
some cases, control how they work. To access settings
for these features, touch
Controls > Autopilot.
Autopilot Features
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with all features listed
below, or a feature may not operate exactly as
described.
These Autopilot convenience features are designed to
reduce driver workload:
Trac-Aware Cruise Control (see Trac-Aware
•
Cruise Control on page 82)
Autosteer (see Autosteer on page 87)
•
Auto Lane Change (see Auto Lane Change on page
•
89)
Autopark (see Autopark on page 102)
•
Summon (see Summon on page 104)
•
Smart Summon (Smart Summon on page 107)
•
Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning (see Stop Light
•
and Stop Sign Warning on page 90)
Navigate on Autopilot (see Navigate on Autopilot on
•
page 92)
Trac Light and Stop Sign Control (see Trac Light
•
and Stop Sign Control on page 95)
You can enable/disable some of these features and in
some cases, control how they work. To access settings
associated with these features, touch
Autopilot.
Controls >
Drive to Calibrate Cameras
Model 3 must maneuver with precision when Autopilot
features are being used. Therefore, before some features
can be used for the first time or after some types of
service repairs, cameras must complete a self-calibration
process. For your convenience, the touchscreen displays
a progress indicator.
When calibration is complete, Autopilot features are
available for use. Calibration typically completes after
driving
depending on road and environmental conditions. For
example, calibration completes quicker when driving on
a straight road with multiple lanes (such as a controlledaccess highway), with highly-visible lane markings (in
the driving lane as well as the adjacent lanes). Contact
Tesla only if your
calibration process after driving 100 miles (160 km) in
the described conditions.
If a camera has shifted from its calibrated position (for
example, the camera or windshield was replaced), you
must clear the calibration. To do so, touch Controls >
Service > Camera Calibration > Clear Calibration. When
the calibration is cleared, Model 3 repeats the calibration
process. While this helps re-calibrate the cameras in
many cases, Clear Calibration may not resolve all
camera and sensor concerns.
NOTE: To calibrate, cameras require highly-visible lane
markings in both the driving lane and adjacent lanes (at
least two lanes over on each side of the vehicle). For
best results, drive in the middle lane of a multi-lane
highway (ideally with at least five lanes) that has clear
lane markings and minimal trac.
NOTE: If you attempt to use a feature that is not
available until the calibration process is complete, the
feature is disabled and the touchscreen displays a
message.
NOTE: Model 3 must repeat the calibration process if the
cameras are serviced by Tesla, and in some cases, after a
software update.
20-25 miles (32-40 km), but the distance varies
Model 3 has not completed the
Limitations
Many factors can impact the performance of Autopilot
components, causing them to be unable to function as
intended. These include (but are not limited to):
Poor visibility (due to heavy rain, snow, fog, etc.).
•
Bright light (due to oncoming headlights, direct
•
sunlight, etc.).
• Damage or obstructions caused by mud, ice, snow,
etc.
Interference or obstruction by object(s) mounted
•
onto the vehicle (such as a bike rack).
• Obstruction caused by applying excessive paint or
adhesive products (such as wraps, stickers, rubber
coating, etc.) onto the vehicle.
• Narrow or winding roads.
• A damaged or misaligned body panel.
• Use of gray or aftermarket glass.
Interference from other equipment that generates
•
ultrasonic waves.
• Extremely hot or cold temperatures.
80 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 83
CAUTION: If a windshield replacement is needed,
take your vehicle to Tesla Service. This ensures
appropriate handling and mounting of the
camera(s). Failure to do so can cause one or more
Autopilot features to malfunction.
WARNING: The list above does not represent an
exhaustive list of situations that may interfere with
proper operation of Autopilot components. Never
depend on these components to keep you safe. It
is the driver's responsibility to stay alert, drive
safely, and be in control of the vehicle at all times.
WARNING: Advanced safety features may not be
available during the calibration period.
WARNING: Re-calibrating the cameras or sensors
on the touchscreen is not a substitute for checking
the physical positioning and condition of these
components. Walk around your vehicle and inspect
the cameras and sensors for physical damage.
Incorrectly calibrated or positioned cameras and
sensors may limit or disable the use of safety
features. Contact Tesla if you suspect lingering
issues.
Cleaning Cameras and Sensors
About Autopilot
To ensure the various Autopilot components can provide
information that is as accurate as possible, keep them
clean and free of obstructions, condensation, or damage
Cleaning on page 175).
(see
Condensation can form inside the camera enclosures,
especially if you park your vehicle outside in cold or wet
conditions. The
that a camera is blocked and that some or all Autopilot
features may be temporarily restricted until the camera
vision is clear. To proactively dry the condensation,
precondition the cabin by setting it to a warm
temperature, turning the windshield defroster on, and
directing the front air vents toward the door pillars (see
Mobile App on page 156).
CAUTION:
hands or a cloth in an attempt to remove dirt or
debris. The debris can damage the surface of the
lens when wiped.
CAUTION:
cleaners. Doing so can damage surfaces.
CAUTION:
equipped) or camera lens with a sharp or abrasive
object that can scratch or damage its surface.
touchscreen may display an alert stating
Do not wipe an exposed lens with your
Do not use chemical-based or abrasive
Do not clean an ultrasonic sensor (if
81Autopilot
Page 84
Trac-Aware Cruise Control
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with Trac-Aware
Cruise Control, or the feature may not operate exactly as
described. If your vehicle is not equipped, refer to the
owner's manual on your vehicle's touchscreen for
instructions on how to use Cruise Control.
NOTE: Trac-Aware Cruise Control is a BETA feature.
Trac-Aware Cruise Control determines when there is a
vehicle in front of you in the same lane. If the area in
front of Model 3 is clear, Trac-Aware Cruise Control
maintains a set driving speed. When a vehicle is
detected,
slow down Model 3 as needed to maintain a selected
time-based distance from the vehicle in front, up to the
set speed.
eliminate the need to watch the road in front of you and
to manually apply the brakes when needed.
Trac-Aware Cruise Control is primarily intended for
driving on dry, straight roads, such as highways.
Trac-Aware Cruise Control is designed to
Trac-Aware Cruise Control does not
CAUTION:
clean before each drive. Dirty cameras and
sensors, as well as environmental conditions such
as rain and faded lane markings, can aect
Autopilot performance.
WARNING:
designed for your driving comfort and
convenience and is not a collision warning or
avoidance system. It is your responsibility to stay
alert, drive safely, and be in control of the vehicle
at all times. Never depend on Trac-Aware Cruise
Control to adequately slow down Model 3. Always
watch the road in front of you and be prepared to
take corrective action at all times. Failure to do so
can result in serious injury or death.
WARNING:
is capable of detecting pedestrians and cyclists,
never depend on Trac-Aware Cruise Control to
adequately slow Model 3 down for them. Always
watch the road in front of you and be prepared to
take corrective action at all times. Failure to do so
can result in serious injury or death.
WARNING:
Control on winding roads with sharp curves, on icy
or slippery road surfaces, or when weather
conditions (such as heavy rain, snow, fog, etc.)
make it inappropriate to drive at a consistent
speed. Trac-Aware Cruise Control does not
adapt driving speed based on road and driving
conditions.
Ensure all cameras and sensors are
Trac-Aware Cruise Control is
Although Trac-Aware Cruise Control
Do not use Trac-Aware Cruise
To Use Trac-Aware Cruise Control
To initiate Trac-Aware Cruise Control when no vehicle
is detected ahead of you, you must be driving at least
18 mph (30 km/h), unless certain vehicle and
environmental conditions are met, in which case, you
may be able to initiate it at lower speeds. If a vehicle is
detected ahead of you, you can initiate
Cruise Control at any speed, even when stationary,
provided Model 3 is at least 5 feet (150 cm) behind the
detected vehicle and certain vehicle and environmental
conditions are met.
NOTE: The maximum cruising speed is 90 mph (150
km/h). It is the driver's responsibility to cruise at a safe
speed based on road conditions and speed limits.
When Trac-Aware Cruise Control is
available but not engaged, the touchscreen
displays the cruising speed in gray. The
number shown represents the cruising
speed that will be set when you engage
Trac-Aware Cruise Control.
When Trac-Aware Cruise Control is
actively cruising at a set cruising speed,
the cruising speed is highlighted with blue
text.
1.
You can choose whether Trac-Aware Cruise Control
engages at the currently detected speed limit or your
current driving speed. Touch Controls > Autopilot >
Set Speed and choose either Speed Limit or Current
Speed. If you choose to engage Trac-Aware Cruise
Control at the currently detected speed limit, you can
specify an
choose a Fixed oset, in which the cruising speed
adjusts by a specific number of mph (km/h) on all
roads, or a
speed is adjusted as a percentage of the road's
detected speed limit.
To engage Trac-Aware Cruise Control when it is
2.
available (the car status area of the touchscreen
displays the gray cruising speed icon), move the drive
stalk down once, then release the accelerator pedal
to allow
cruising speed.
NOTE: Moving the drive stalk down twice in quick
succession engages Autosteer (assuming it has been
enabled), which includes
functionality, as described in Autosteer on page
87).
To change your speed while using Trac-Aware
3.
Cruise Control, you can roll the right scroll wheel on
the steering wheel up or down. You can also change
the cruising speed to the current speed limit
(including any oset you've specified), by either long
oset. Touch Set Speed Oset. You can
Percentage oset, in which the cruising
WARNING:
there may be situations where the cruising
speed may not change when the speed limit
changes.
WARNING:
Control or Speed Assist to determine an
accurate or appropriate cruising speed. It is the
driver's responsibility to cruise at a safe speed
based on road conditions and applicable speed
limits.
Trac-Aware Cruise Control to maintain the
When cruising at the speed limit,
Do not rely on Trac-Aware Cruise
Trac-Aware Cruise Control
Trac-Aware
82 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 85
Trac-Aware Cruise Control
pressing the drive stalk down, or touching the speed
limit sign on the touchscreen. For more details, see
Changing the Cruising Speed on page 83.
4. To cancel Trac-Aware Cruise Control, push the drive
stalk up once or press the brake pedal. See Canceling
and Resuming on page 85 for more information.
Set Trac-Aware Cruise Control
Chime
If you want a chime to sound when you engage or
cancel Trac-Aware Cruise Control, touch Controls >
Autopilot > Trac-Aware Cruise Control Chime.
NOTE: Model 3 must be in Park.
Changing the Cruising Speed
Roll the right scroll wheel up to increase, or down to
decrease, the set speed. Slowly rolling the scroll wheel
changes the set speed in 1 mph (1 km/h) increments and
quickly rolling the scroll wheel changes the set speed to
the closest 5 mph (5 km/h) increment.
With Trac-Aware Cruise Control engaged and cruising
at a set speed, you can also change the cruising speed
to the current speed limit (including any oset you've
specified), by either pushing the drive stalk downward
briefly holding, or touching and briefly holding the
and
speed limit sign on the touchscreen, until you see the
cruising speed change.
Cruising at the Set Speed
Trac-Aware Cruise Control maintains your set cruising
speed whenever a vehicle is not detected in front of
Model 3. When cruising behind a detected vehicle,
Trac-Aware Cruise Control accelerates and decelerates
Model 3 as needed to maintain a chosen following
distance (see Adjust the Following Distance on page
84), up to the set speed.
Trac-Aware Cruise Control also adjusts the cruising
speed when entering and exiting curves.
You can manually accelerate at any time when cruising
at a set speed, but when you release the accelerator,
Trac-Aware Cruise Control resumes cruising at the set
speed.
NOTE: When Trac-Aware Cruise Control is actively
slowing down Model 3 to maintain the selected distance
from the vehicle ahead, brake lights turn on to alert
other road users that you are slowing down. You may
notice slight movement of the brake pedal. However,
when
Trac-Aware Cruise Control is accelerating Model
3, the accelerator pedal does not move.
WARNING:
occasionally cause Model 3 to brake when not
required or when you are not expecting it. This can
be caused by closely following a vehicle ahead,
detecting vehicles or objects in adjacent lanes
(especially on curves), etc.
WARNING:
onboard GPS (Global Positioning System), you
may experience situations in which Model 3 slows
down, especially near exits or o-ramps where a
curve is detected and/or you are navigating to a
destination and not following the route.
WARNING:
detect all objects and, especially when cruising
over 50 mph (80 km/h), may not brake/decelerate
when a vehicle or object is only partially in the
driving lane or when a vehicle you are following
moves out of your driving path and a stationary or
slow-moving vehicle or object is in front of you.
Always pay attention to the road ahead and stay
prepared to take immediate corrective action.
Depending on Trac-Aware Cruise Control to
avoid a collision can result in serious injury or
death. In addition, Trac-Aware Cruise Control
may react to vehicles or objects that either do not
exist, or are not in your lane of travel, causing
Model 3 to slow down unnecessarily or
inappropriately.
Trac-Aware Cruise Control may
Due to limitations inherent in the
Trac-Aware Cruise Control may not
NOTE: It may take a few seconds for Model 3 to reach
the new cruising speed, assuming Model 3 is not cruising
behind a vehicle that is driving slower than your set
speed.
83Autopilot
Page 86
Trac-Aware Cruise Control
WARNING: Trac-Aware Cruise Control may be
unable to provide adequate speed control because
of limited braking capability and hills. It can also
misjudge the distance from a vehicle ahead.
Driving downhill can increase driving speed,
causing Model 3 to exceed your set speed (and
potentially the road's speed limit). Never depend
on Trac-Aware Cruise Control to slow down
Model 3 enough to prevent a collision. Always keep
your eyes on the road when driving and be
prepared to take corrective action as needed.
Depending on Trac-Aware Cruise Control to
reduce your driving speed enough to prevent a
collision can result in serious injury or death.
HOLD State
When following a vehicle, Trac-Aware Cruise Control
remains active at low speeds, even when Model 3 comes
to a full stop. When the vehicle is moving again, Trac-
Aware Cruise Control resumes operating at the set
speed. However, under the following circumstances,
Trac-Aware Cruise Control goes into a HOLD state, in
which case, you need to
pedal to resume cruising. When the
active, the touchscreen displays the HOLD icon and a
message that indicates that you need to resume cruise
control. The following circumstances can cause Trac-
Aware Cruise Control to go into the HOLD state:
briefly press the accelerator
HOLD status is
NOTE:
The on-board Global Positioning System (GPS)
determines if you are driving in a region with right or left
hand trac. In situations where GPS data is unavailable
(for example, if there is inadequate signal), engaging the
turn signal near an exit does not cause Trac-Aware
Cruise Control to slow down Model 3.
When enabled while on a highway interchange or o-
ramp, Trac-Aware Cruise Control may reduce your set
speed in
25 mph (40 km/h) – to better match the reported
speeds of other Tesla vehicles that have driven at that
specific location. To override this and continue cruising
at your set speed, tap the accelerator pedal. The new set
speed is maintained for the duration of the interchange
or
Aware Cruise Control). After the interchange or o-
ramp, the set speed may revert or change as necessary
based on the new location. For example, if you merged
onto a
back to what it was before driving on the interchange.
5 mph (5 km/h) increments – to as slow as
o-ramp (unless you override it or cancel Trac-
dierent highway, the set cruising speed reverts
WARNING:
insucient data), Trac-Aware Cruise Control may
not automatically reduce the set speed on the
highway interchange or o-ramp. Do not rely on
Trac-Aware Cruise Control to determine an
appropriate driving speed. Tesla recommends
driving at a speed that is safe for road conditions
and within posted speed limits.
In some cases (such as having
Model 3 has been at a standstill for 5 minutes.
•
Model 3 detects a pedestrian (the HOLD state may
•
clear when the pedestrian is no longer detected).
Model 3 suddenly loses visibility of the vehicle in
•
front of you.
An obstacle is detected in front of Model 3.
•
Cruising Near or On Exits
When cruising near an exit on a controlled-access
highway and engaging the turn signal toward the o-
ramp, Trac-Aware Cruise Control assumes you are
exiting and begins to slow down Model 3. If you do not
drive onto the
resumes cruising at the set speed. In a region with right
hand trac, this occurs only when you engage the right
turn signal when driving in the right-most lane within
164 feet (50 meters) of an exit. Likewise in regions with
left hand
driving in the left-most lane within 164 feet (50 meters)
of an exit.
When cruising onto an on-ramp to a controlled-access
highway, Trac-Aware Cruise Control automatically
adjusts the set cruising speed to the speed limit of the
highway, plus any oset you have specified.
o-ramp, Trac-Aware Cruise Control
trac; when engaging the left turn signal when
Adjust the Following Distance
To adjust the following distance you want to maintain
between Model 3 and a vehicle traveling ahead of you,
press the steering wheel's right scroll button to the left
or right. Choose a setting from 1 (the closest following
distance) to 7 (the longest following distance). Each
setting corresponds to a time-based distance that
represents how long it takes for
location, to reach the location of the rear bumper of the
vehicle ahead of you.
Model 3, from its current
84 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
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Trac-Aware Cruise Control
As you adjust the following distance, the touchscreen
displays the current setting.
NOTE: Your setting is retained until you manually
change it.
NOTE: The closest following distance(s) may be
unavailable for vehicles manufactured after
approximately April 27, 2021.
WARNING:
determine and maintain a safe following distance
at all times. Do not rely on Trac-Aware Cruise
Control to maintain an accurate or appropriate
following distance.
WARNING:
Control to adequately slow down Model 3 to avoid
a collision. Always watch the road in front of you
and stay prepared to take immediate corrective
action.
It is the driver's responsibility to
Never depend on Trac-Aware Cruise
Overtake Acceleration
When following a vehicle with Trac-Aware Cruise
Control active, engaging the turn signal (to indicate a
move into the passing lane) accelerates Model 3 towards
the vehicle ahead. By momentarily holding the turn
stalk up or down, you can quickly accelerate up to
signal
your set speed without having to press the accelerator
pedal. The turn signal causes acceleration only when all
of the following conditions are met:
NOTE:
Overtake Acceleration occurs when you hold the
turn signal in the momentary position (partially
engaged). When you release the turn signal, Model 3
stops accelerating (in the same way as when you release
the accelerator pedal) and resumes the set speed.
WARNING: Overtake Acceleration can cancel for
many unforeseen reasons in addition to those
listed above (for example, lack of GPS data). Stay
alert and never depend on Overtake Acceleration
to increase your driving speed.
WARNING: Overtake Acceleration increases your
driving speed whenever the appropriate turn
signal is engaged, and accelerates Model 3 closer
to the vehicle ahead. Although Trac-Aware
Cruise Control continues to maintain distance from
the vehicle ahead, it is important to be aware that
your selected following distance is reduced when
Overtake Acceleration is active, particularly in
cases where it may not be your intention to
overtake the vehicle you are following.
Canceling and Resuming
To manually cancel Trac-Aware Cruise Control, press
the brake pedal or
The cruising speed icon on the touchscreen turns gray
to indicate that Trac-Aware Cruise Control is no longer
active.
WARNING:
than one second. Doing so cancels Trac-Aware
Cruise Control and shifts Model 3 into Neutral.
briefly move the drive stalk up once.
Do not hold the drive stalk up for more
Trac-Aware Cruise Control is operating and detects
•
a vehicle in front of you.
No obstacles or vehicles are detected in the target
•
lane.
Model 3 is traveling below the set speed, but over
•
45 mph (72 km/h).
Overtake Acceleration is intended as an aid when
passing a vehicle ahead of you. When the turn signal is
engaged,
maintain distance from the vehicle ahead, but allows you
to drive slightly closer than your selected distance.
Acceleration cancels when one of the conditions
happen:
You reach your set cruising speed.
•
Changing lanes takes too long.
•
• Model 3 gets too close to the vehicle ahead.
OR
• You disengage the turn signal.
Trac-Aware Cruise Control continues to
To resume cruising, move the drive stalk fully down once
then release.
85Autopilot
Page 88
Trac-Aware Cruise Control
NOTE: When Trac-Aware Cruise Control cancels,
Model 3 does not coast. Instead, regenerative braking
slows down Model 3 in the same way as when you move
your foot
Trac-Aware Cruise Control (see Regenerative Braking
on page 61).
o the accelerator when driving without
WARNING:
or may not be available, in the following situations:
Trac-Aware Cruise Control cancels,
Summary of Cruise Indicators
Trac-Aware Cruise Control is available
but is not actively controlling your speed
until you activate it. The number shown in
gray is the cruising speed that will be set
when you engage Trac-Aware Cruise
Control.
Trac-Aware Cruise Control is actively
cruising and is either maintaining the set
speed (no vehicle in front) or is
maintaining a chosen following distance
from a vehicle ahead (up to the set speed).
Model 3 has fully stopped but is in a HOLD
state. If safe, press the accelerator pedal to
resume cruising at the set speed.
Limitations
Trac-Aware Cruise Control is particularly unlikely to
operate as intended in the following types of situations:
You press the brake pedal.
•
Your driving speed exceeds the maximum cruising
•
speed of
You shift Model 3.
•
A door is opened.
•
A camera or sensor is obstructed. This could be
•
caused by dirt, mud, ice, snow, fog, etc.
The traction control setting is manually disabled or is
•
repeatedly engaging to prevent wheels from slipping.
The wheels are spinning while at a standstill.
•
The Trac-Aware Cruise Control system is failing or
•
requires service.
When Trac-Aware Cruise Control is unavailable or
cancels, Model 3 no longer drives consistently at a set
speed and no longer maintains a
the vehicle ahead.
90 mph (150 km/h).
specified distance from
WARNING:
unexpectedly at any time for unforeseen reasons.
Always watch the road in front of you and stay
prepared to take appropriate action. It is the
driver's responsibility to be in control of Model 3 at
all times.
Trac-Aware Cruise Control can cancel
The road has sharp curves.
•
Visibility is poor (due to heavy rain, snow, fog, etc.).
•
Bright light (such as from oncoming headlights or
•
direct sunlight) is interfering with the view of the
camera(s).
A camera or sensor is obstructed (fogged over, dirty,
•
covered by a sticker, etc.).
WARNING:
exhaustive list of situations that may interfere with
proper operation of Trac-Aware Cruise Control.
The list above does not represent an
86 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 89
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with Autosteer, or the
feature may not operate exactly as described.
NOTE: Autosteer is a BETA feature.
Autosteer builds upon Trac-Aware Cruise Control (see
Trac-Aware Cruise Control on page 82), intelligently
keeping Model 3 in its driving lane when cruising at a set
speed.
to move Model 3 into an adjacent lane (see Auto Lane
Change on page 89). Autosteer detects lane markings
and the presence of vehicles and objects to
3.
When full self-driving is enabled (if equipped), the car
status area displays visualizations of the road and your
vehicle's surroundings. You can expand the visualization
by dragging the car status area from side to side. This
displays more details about the roadway and its
surroundings, such as road markings, stop lights, and
objects (such as trash cans and poles).
Autosteer also allows you to use the turn signals
steer Model
CAUTION:
clean. Dirty cameras and sensors, as well as
environmental conditions such as rain and faded
lane markings, aect performance.
WARNING:
must keep your hands on the steering wheel at all
times.
WARNING:
controlled-access highways with a fully attentive
driver. When using Autosteer, hold the steering
wheel and be mindful of road conditions and
surrounding trac. Do not use Autosteer in
construction zones, or in areas where bicyclists or
pedestrians may be present. Never depend on
Autosteer to determine an appropriate driving
path. Always be prepared to take immediate
action. Failure to follow these instructions could
cause damage, serious injury or death.
Ensure all cameras and sensors are
Autosteer is a hands-on feature. You
Autosteer is intended for use on
Operating Autosteer
Before you can operate Autosteer, you must enable it by
touching Controls > Autopilot > Autosteer (Beta).
To indicate that Autosteer is available (but
not actively steering
corner of the touchscreen displays a gray
Autosteer icon next to the driving gear.
To initiate Autosteer, move the drive stalk fully down
twice in quick succession.
Model 3), the top
Autosteer
To indicate that Autosteer is now actively
steering
the Autosteer icon in blue. When Autosteer
is able to detect lane markings, it also
displays the driving lane in blue.
Autosteer briefly displays a message on the touchscreen
reminding you to pay attention to the road and be ready
to take over at any time.
The speed at which you can initiate Autosteer can vary
depending on various conditions and whether or not a
vehicle is detected ahead of you. When no vehicle is
detected ahead of you, you must be driving at least
18 mph (30 km/h), unless certain vehicle and
environmental conditions are met, in which case, you
may be able to initiate it at lower speeds. When a
vehicle is detected ahead of you, you can initiate
Autosteer at any speed, even when stationary, provided
Model 3 is at least 5 feet (150 cm) behind the detected
vehicle.
NOTE: The maximum cruising speed is 90 mph (150
km/h). It is the driver's responsibility to cruise at a safe
speed based on road conditions and speed limits.
NOTE: Auto High Beam is automatically enabled when
Autosteer is engaged and the maximum cruising speed
may be limited to a lower speed
manufactured after approximately April 27, 2021.
CAUTION:
3 detects lights from an emergency vehicle when
using Autosteer at night on a high speed road, the
driving speed is automatically reduced and the
touchscreen displays a message informing you of
the slowdown. You will also hear a chime and see a
reminder to keep your hands on the steering
wheel. When the light detections pass by or cease
to appear, Autopilot resumes your cruising speed.
Alternatively, you may tap the accelerator to
resume your cruising speed.
WARNING:
determine the presence of emergency vehicles.
Model 3 may not detect lights from emergency
vehicles in all situations. Keep your eyes on your
driving path and always be prepared to take
immediate action.
Model 3, the touchscreen displays
for vehicles
If available in your market region, Model
Never depend on Autopilot features to
87Autopilot
Page 90
Autosteer
In situations where Autosteer is temporarily unavailable,
the Autosteer icon disappears. For example, your driving
speed is not within the speed required for Autosteer to
operate. Autosteer may also be unavailable if it is not
receiving adequate data from the camera(s).
If unable to detect lane markings, Autosteer may
determine the driving lane based on a vehicle you are
following.
In most cases, Autosteer attempts to center Model 3 in
the driving lane. However, there may be situations in
which Autosteer may steer
is oset from the center of the lane (for example,
detection of guard rails).
WARNING:
not, steer Model 3 around objects partially in a
driving lane and in some cases, may not stop for
objects that are completely blocking the driving
lane. Always watch the road in front of you and
stay prepared to take immediate action. It is the
driver's responsibility to be in control of Model 3 at
all times.
Autosteer is not designed to, and will
Model 3 in a driving path that
Restricted Speed
On a controlled-access highway, the cruising speed
reflects the speed limit, taking into consideration any
oset you've specified using Speed Assist. However, if
you choose to use Autosteer on residential roads, a road
without a center divider, or a road where access is not
limited, Autosteer may limit the maximum allowed
cruising speed and the
indicating that speed is restricted. The restricted speed
will be the speed limit of the road plus 5 mph (10 km/h).
In situations where the speed limit cannot be detected
when Autosteer is engaged, Autosteer reduces your
driving speed and limits the set cruising speed to 45
mph (70 km/h). Although you can manually accelerate
to exceed the limited speed, Model 3 may not brake for
detected obstacles. Autosteer slows down to the limited
speed when you release the accelerator pedal. When
you leave the road, or disengage Autosteer by using the
steering wheel, you can increase your set speed again, if
desired.
touchscreen displays a message
Autosteer detects your hands by recognizing slight
resistance as the
manually turning the steering wheel very lightly (without
enough force to take over steering). Autosteer also
qualifies your hands as being detected if you engage a
turn signal or use a button or scroll wheel on the
steering wheel.
NOTE: When your hands are detected, the message
disappears and Autosteer resumes normal operation.
Autosteer requires that you pay attention to your
surroundings and remain prepared to take control at any
time. If Autosteer still does not detect your hands on the
steering wheel, the flashing light on the car status
section of the touchscreen increases in frequency and a
chime sounds.
If you repeatedly ignore Autosteer's prompts to apply
slight force to the
the rest of the drive and displays the following message
requesting you to drive manually. If you don't resume
manual steering, Autosteer sounds a continuous chime,
turns on the warning
complete stop.
For the rest of the drive, you must steer manually.
Autosteer is available again on your next drive (after you
stop and shift
steering wheel turns, or from you
steering wheel, Autosteer disables for
flashers, and slows the vehicle to a
Autosteer unavailable for the rest of this
drive. Hold steering wheel to drive
manually.
Model 3 into Park).
Take Over Immediately
In situations where Autosteer is unable to steer Model 3,
Autosteer sounds a warning chime and displays the
following message on the touchscreen:
Take over immediately
Hold Steering Wheel
When you see this message, TAKE OVER STEERING
Autosteer determines how best to steer Model 3. When
active, Autosteer requires you to hold the steering
wheel. If it does not detect your hands on the steering
wheel for a period of time, a flashing blue light appears
at the top of the car status section of the touchscreen
and the following message displays:
Apply slight turning force to steering
wheel
88 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
IMMEDIATELY.
Canceling Autosteer
Autosteer cancels when:
• You press the brake pedal.
• You start steering manually.
You exceed the maximum speed at which Autosteer
•
operates – 90 mph (150 km/h).
Page 91
Autosteer
• You move the drive stalk upwards.
• A door is opened.
An Automatic Emergency Braking event occurs (see
•
Collision Avoidance Assist on page 113).
When Autosteer cancels, it sounds a chime and the
Autosteer icon either turns gray to indicate that
Autosteer is no longer active, or disappears to indicate
that it is not currently available.
NOTE: If Autosteer cancels because you started steering
manually, Trac-Aware Cruise Control remains active.
Disengage
would, by pressing the brake pedal moving the drive
stalk upward.
NOTE: If you move the drive stalk upward and hold it up
for more than one second,
after canceling Autosteer.
To disable Autosteer so it is no longer available, touch
Controls > Autopilot > Autosteer (Beta).
Trac-Aware Cruise Control as you normally
Model 3 shifts into Neutral
Auto Lane Change
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with Auto Lane
Change, or the feature may not operate exactly as
described.
When Autosteer is active, engage a turn signal to move
Model 3 into an adjacent lane (moving the steering
wheel would cancel Autosteer).
WARNING:
determine an appropriate driving path. Drive
attentively by watching the road and trac ahead
of you, checking the surrounding area, and
monitoring the touchscreen for warnings. Always
be prepared to take immediate action.
WARNING:
where trac conditions are constantly changing
and where bicycles and pedestrians are present.
WARNING:
depends on the ability of the camera(s) to
recognize lane markings.
WARNING:
winding roads with sharp curves, on icy or slippery
roads, or when weather conditions (such as heavy
rain, snow, fog, etc.) may be obstructing the view
from the camera(s) or sensors.
WARNING:
instructions can result in property damage, serious
injury or death.
Never depend on Auto Lane Change to
Do not use Auto Lane Change on roads
The performance of Auto Lane Change
Do not use Auto Lane Change on
Failure to follow all warnings and
Operating Auto Lane Change
Auto Lane Change is available whenever Autosteer is
active. To change lanes using Auto Lane Change:
Perform visual checks to make sure it is safe and
1.
appropriate to move into the target lane.
Engage the appropriate turn signal, keeping your
2.
hands on the steering wheel.
If needed, cancel the turn signal once you are in the
3.
target lane.
WARNING:
determine whether a lane change is safe and
appropriate. Therefore, before initiating a lane
change, always check blind spots, lane markings,
and the surrounding roadway to confirm it is safe
and appropriate to move into the target lane.
It is the driver's responsibility to
NOTE: The minimum speed at which Auto Lane Change
operates may vary depending on region, adjacent lane
speeds, and other factors. Always be ready to manually
steer and change lanes as necessary.
Auto Lane Change moves Model 3 into the adjacent lane
in the direction indicated by the turn signal, provided
the following conditions are met:
The turn signal is engaged.
•
Model 3 does not detect a vehicle in its blind spot, or
•
a vehicle or obstacle up to the center of the target
lane.
• Lane markings indicate that a lane change is
permitted.
Midway through the lane change, Model 3 must
•
detect the target lane's outside lane marking. If this
lane marking is not detected, the lane change is
aborted and Model 3 returns to its original driving
lane.
The view of the camera(s) is not obstructed.
•
89Autopilot
Page 92
Autosteer
When an automatic lane change is in progress, Overtake
Acceleration is activated, allowing Model 3 to accelerate
closer to a vehicle in front (see Overtake Acceleration on
page 85).
NOTE: Auto Lane Change moves Model 3 one lane at a
time. Moving into an additional lane requires you to
engage the turn signal a second time after the
change is complete.
When using Auto Lane Change, it is important to
monitor its performance by watching the driving path in
front of you and the surrounding area. Stay prepared to
take over steering at any time. As you are crossing over
into the adjacent lane, the
location in the lane that Model 3 is moving into.
In situations where Auto Lane Change is unable to
operate at optimal performance, or cannot operate due
to inadequate data, the
warnings. Therefore, when using Auto Lane Change,
always pay attention to the touchscreen and be
prepared to manually steer Model 3.
touchscreen displays the
touchscreen displays a series of
first lane
Adjacent Lane Speed
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with Adjacent Lane
Speed, or the feature may not operate exactly as
described.
When moving significantly faster than vehicles in
adjacent lanes, Model 3 automatically reduces the
driving speed. This is especially helpful in heavy trac
situations or when vehicles are constantly merging into
dierent lanes. When Model 3 detects other vehicles
driving significantly slower, the touchscreen highlights
the adjacent lanes with arrows and detected vehicles in
gray, and Model 3 reduces the driving speed as
appropriate. To temporarily override this feature, press
the accelerator pedal.
The visual and audible warnings cancel after a few
seconds, or when you press the brake pedal, whichever
comes
Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning provides warnings
only. It does not slow down or stop Model 3 at red trac
lights, stop signs, road markings, etc. If equipped with
Trac Light and Stop Sign Control, you can enable this
feature to automatically stop Model 3 at trac lights
and stop signs (see Trac Light and Stop Sign Control
on page 95).
first.
CAUTION: Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning
requires on-board maps to know that a particular
stop light or stop sign exists at a location. In some
cases, map data is inaccurate or outdated and may
not include all stop lights or stop signs. Therefore,
Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning may not detect
all stop lights and stop signs.
WARNING: The Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning
feature does not apply the brakes or decelerate
Model 3 and may not detect all stop lights and
stop signs. Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning is
designed for guidance purposes only and is not a
substitute for attentive driving and sound
judgment. Keep your eyes on the road when
driving and never depend on Stop Light and Stop
Sign Warning to warn you of a stop light or stop
sign.
WARNING: Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning is
designed to warn you only when approaching a
visible red stop sign, solid red or later portion of a
yellow trac light. It may not warn you of
intersections with flashing lights and it does not
warn you of yield signs or temporary stop and
yield signs (such as those used in construction
areas). Additionally, Stop Light and Stop Sign
Warning does not warn you of approaching stop
lights or stop signs when you are pressing the
accelerator pedal or brake pedal (which disables
Autosteer).
WARNING:
determine a safe driving speed; you are
responsible for driving safely and according to
trac laws in your market region.
Never depend on Autopilot to
Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with Stop Light and
Stop Sign Warning, or the feature may not operate
exactly as described.
While Autosteer is in use, Model 3 displays a warning on
the touchscreen and sounds a chime if it detects that
you are likely to run through a red stop light or stop
sign. If this happens,
ACTION!
90 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
TAKE IMMEDIATE CORRECTIVE
Limitations
Autosteer and its associated functions are particularly
unlikely to operate as intended when:
Autosteer is unable to accurately determine lane
•
markings. For example, lane markings are excessively
worn, have visible previous markings, have been
adjusted due to road construction, are changing
quickly (lanes branching
merging), objects or landscape features are casting
strong shadows on the lane markings, or the road
surface contains pavement seams or other highcontrast lines.
Visibility is poor (heavy rain, snow, fog, etc.) or
•
weather conditions are interfering with sensor
operation.
• A camera(s) or sensor(s) is obstructed, covered, or
damaged.
o, crossing over, or
Page 93
• Driving on hills.
• Approaching a toll booth.
Driving on a road that has sharp curves or is
•
excessively rough.
• Bright light (such as direct sunlight) is interfering
with the view of the camera(s).
•
The sensors (if equipped) are aected by other
electrical equipment or devices that generate
ultrasonic waves.
•
A vehicle is detected in your blind spot when you
engage the turn signal.
Model 3 is being driven very close to a vehicle in front
•
of it, which is blocking the view of the camera(s).
Autosteer
WARNING:
impair the operation of Autosteer. Always keep this
in mind and remember that as a result, Autosteer
may not steer Model 3 appropriately. Always drive
attentively and be prepared to take immediate
action.
Many unforeseen circumstances can
91Autopilot
Page 94
Navigate on Autopilot
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with Navigate on
Autopilot, or the feature may not operate exactly as
described.
NOTE: Navigate on Autopilot is a BETA feature.
When using Autosteer on a controlled-access highway
(a main highway on which road users enter and exit
using on-ramps and
guides Model 3 to o-ramps and interchanges based on
your navigation route. Along the highway portion of a
navigation route, Navigate on Autopilot also changes
lanes to prepare for exits (route-based lane changes)
and to minimize the driving time to your destination
(speed-based lane changes).
WARNING:
driving autonomous. You must pay attention to the
road, keep your hands on the steering wheel at all
times, and remain aware of your navigation route.
WARNING:
extra careful around blind corners, interchanges,
and on-ramps and o-ramps - obstacles can
appear quickly and at any time.
WARNING:
recognize or detect oncoming vehicles, stationary
objects, and special-use lanes such as those used
exclusively for bikes, carpools, emergency vehicles,
etc. Remain alert at all times and be prepared to
take immediate action. Failure to do so can cause
damage, injury or death.
o-ramps). Navigate on Autopilot
Navigate on Autopilot does not make
As is the case with normal driving, be
Navigate on Autopilot may not
Enabling and Customizing Navigate on Autopilot
change lanes to achieve the set cruising speed. The
Mild setting is more conservative about lane changes
and may result in a slightly longer driving time
whereas Mad Max is designed to allow you to reach
your destination in the shortest driving time possible,
but changes lanes only when safe to do so.
•
Exit Passing Lane: Choose whether you want
Navigate on Autopilot to maneuver out of a passing
lane when navigating to a destination.
NOTE: In addition to route-based and speed-based
lane changes, Navigate on Autopilot requests a lane
change out of a passing lane as a reminder to stay in
a slower lane when you are not passing other
vehicles. Choose
in a passing lane except when needed to stay on the
navigation route.
• Require Lane Change Confirmation (if equipped): By
default, Navigate on Autopilot requires your
confirmation before proceeding with a lane change
by engaging the appropriate turn signal. However, if
you want Navigate on Autopilot to change lanes
without requiring this confirmation, turn this setting
o. When you turn the setting o, you can specify if
or how you want to be notified of lane changes (O,
Chime, Vibrate, or Both).
WARNING:
Confirmation, Navigate on Autopilot notifies
you of upcoming lane changes and o-ramps,
but it remains your responsibility to monitor the
environment and maintain control of Model 3 at
all times. Lane changes can occur quickly and
suddenly. Always keep your hands on the wheel
and your eyes on the driving path in front of
you.
NO to disable this and keep Model 3
If you turn o Require Lane Change
To enable Navigate on Autopilot, touch Controls >
Autopilot > Navigate on Autopilot (Beta). Then, to
customize how you want Navigate on Autopilot to
operate, touch Customize Navigate on Autopilot:
Enable At Start Of Every Trip: Choose whether or not
•
you want to automatically enable Navigate on
Autopilot for every navigation route. When enabled,
the Navigate on Autopilot button on the turn-by-turn
direction list is already enabled at the start of every
trip.
Speed Based Lane Changes: Navigate on Autopilot is
•
designed to perform both route-based and speedbased lane changes. Route-based lane changes are
designed to keep you on your navigation route (for
example, moving you into an adjacent lane to prepare
for an upcoming
lane changes are designed to maintain a driving
speed (not to exceed your cruising speed) that allows
you to minimize the time it takes to reach your
destination (for example, moving into an adjacent
lane to pass a vehicle in front of you). Speed-based
lanes changes are optional. You can use this setting
to disable speed-based lane changes or to specify
how aggressively you want Navigate on Autopilot to
o-ramp) whereas speed-based
NOTE: The touchscreen displays route-based lane
changes at the top of the map's turn-by-turn direction
list to notify you that an upcoming lane change is
needed to stay on the navigation route.
Operating Navigate on Autopilot
Once enabled, the Navigate on Autopilot button appears
on the map’s turn-by-turn direction list whenever a
navigation route is active and the route includes at least
one controlled-access highway. When enabled, the
Navigate on Autopilot button is blue and the turn-byturn direction displays the Autosteer icon next to the
maneuvers (such as
Autopilot will handle.
NOTE: If Enable At Start Of Every Trip is turned o, you
must touch the Navigate on Autopilot button to enable
it for each navigation route.
o-ramps) that Navigate on
92 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 95
Navigate on Autopilot
Navigate on Autopilot activates and deactivates as
appropriate, based on the type of road you are driving
on. For example, if Autosteer is active and Navigate on
Autopilot is enabled, Navigate on Autopilot
automatically becomes active when you reach a
controlled-access highway on your navigation route.
Whenever Navigate on Autopilot is active, the
touchscreen displays the driving lane as a single blue
line in front of
Model 3:
WARNING:
attempt to exit at an o-ramp or change lanes,
even when an exit or lane change is determined by
the navigation route. Always remain alert and be
prepared to manually steer onto an o-ramp, or
make a lane change to prepare for, or to exit at, an
o-ramp or interchange.
You can cancel Navigate on Autopilot at any time by
touching Navigate on Autopilot on the map’s turn-by-
turn direction list (Model 3 reverts back to Autosteer), or
by canceling Autosteer entirely (see Canceling
Autosteer on page 88).
Navigate on Autopilot may not always
Lane Changes
Navigate on Autopilot changes lanes to either prepare
Model 3 for an upcoming o-ramp, to increase your
driving speed (not to exceed your set cruising speed), or
to move
actively passing other road users. A message displays at
the top of the map's turn-by-turn direction list to notify
you when an upcoming lane change is required to stay
on your navigation route. The touchscreen displays the
upcoming driving path:
Model 3 out of a passing lane when you are not
When Navigate on Autopilot is active and you approach
an o-ramp or interchange along your navigation route,
the appropriate turn signal engages and Autosteer
maneuvers
When you leave a controlled-access highway (for
example, you take an exit or you enter a section of the
navigation route that is no longer supported), Navigate
on Autopilot reverts back to Autosteer— a chime sounds
and the
blue (instead of the single blue in front of Model 3).
NOTE: When determining navigation routes, and
maneuvers at interchanges, Navigate on Autopilot
considers whether or not you want to use High
Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes. Therefore, ensure the
Use HOV Lanes setting is appropriate for your
circumstances (see
If the setting is o, Navigate on Autopilot never uses a
HOV lane, regardless of time of day. If the setting is on,
Navigate on Autopilot uses HOV lanes, whenever
applicable.
Model 3 onto the o-ramp or interchange.
WARNING:
Autopilot to determine an appropriate lane at an
o-ramp. Stay alert and perform visual checks to
ensure that the driving lane is safe and
appropriate.
touchscreen displays the driving lane lines in
WARNING:
deactivates, Autosteer remains active. Always be
prepared to take appropriate action.
Never depend on Navigate on
Maps and Navigation on page 129).
When Navigate on Autopilot
If Require Lane Change Confirmation is turned o,
Navigate on Autopilot engages the appropriate turn
signal, checks for vehicles and objects, and when
appropriate, maneuvers Model 3 into the adjacent lane.
If Require Lane Change Confirmation is turned on, you
must engage the appropriate turn signal to confirm that
you want Navigate on Autopilot to proceed with the
lane change. If you do not
within three seconds, a chime sounds to remind you that
Navigate on Autopilot requires your confirmation to
change lanes.
NOTE: If you ignore a route-based lane change
suggestion (for example, you are driving in the left lane
while approaching an o-ramp on the right side of the
highway), Navigate on Autopilot is unable to maneuver
onto the
your destination.
o-ramp and as a result, you are re-routed to
confirm the lane change
93Autopilot
Page 96
Navigate on Autopilot
WARNING: Navigate on Autopilot may not always
attempt to exit at an o-ramp or change lanes,
even when an exit or lane change is determined by
the navigation route. Always remain alert and be
prepared to manually steer onto an o-ramp, or
make a lane change to prepare for, or to exit at, an
o-ramp or interchange.
Be Ready to Assist
When attempting to change lanes or maneuver Model 3,
or when approaching construction zones, Navigate on
Autopilot may be unable to determine the appropriate
driving lane (for example, complex clover leafs and
multi-lane
alert indicating that Navigate on Autopilot is trying to
maneuver and may require assistance. When you see the
message, be prepared to take immediate action to
ensure that it is safe and appropriate to complete the
lane change or maneuver.
o-ramps) and the touchscreen displays an
94 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
Page 97
Trac Light and Stop Sign Control
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with Trac Light and
Stop Sign Control, or the feature may not operate
exactly as described.
NOTE: Trac Light and Stop Sign Control is a BETA
feature and works best on roads that are frequently
driven by Tesla vehicles. Trac Light and Stop Sign
Control attempts to stop at all trac lights and may also
stop at green lights.
Trac Light and Stop Sign Control is designed to
recognize and respond to
slowing Model 3 to a stop when using Trac-Aware
cruise control or Autosteer. This feature uses the
vehicle's forward-facing cameras, in addition to GPS
data, and slows the car for all detected
including green, blinking yellow, and o lights in addition
to stop signs and some road markings. As Model 3
approaches an intersection, the touchscreen displays a
notification indicating the intention to slow down. You
must confirm that you want to continue or Model 3
stops at the red line displayed on the touchscreen's
driving visualization.
WARNING:
when and where Trac Light and Stop Sign
Control will stop or continue through an
intersection or road marking. From a driver's
perspective, the behavior of Trac Light and Stop
Sign Control may appear inconsistent. Always pay
attention to the roadway and be prepared to take
immediate action. It is the driver's responsibility to
determine whether to stop or continue through an
intersection. Never depend on Trac Light and
Stop Sign Control to determine when it is safe
and/or appropriate to stop or continue through an
intersection.
NEVER make assumptions and predict
trac lights and stop signs,
trac lights,
Before Using
Before using Trac Light and Stop Sign Control, you
must:
Ensure that forward-facing cameras are unobstructed
•
(see Cleaning Cameras and Sensors on page 81) and
calibrated (see
80). Trac Light and Stop Sign Control depends on
the ability of the cameras to detect trac lights, stop
signs, and road markings.
• Ensure that the latest version of maps has been
downloaded to
Stop Sign Control primarily uses visual data received
from the vehicle's cameras, greater accuracy is
achieved when using the most recent map data. To
check which version of maps is currently
downloaded, touch
vehicle information. You must connect to a Wi-Fi
network to receive updated maps (see Map Updates
on page 134).
Drive to Calibrate Cameras on page
Model 3. Although Trac Light and
Controls > Software > Additional
• Enable the feature. With the vehicle in Park, touch
Controls > Autopilot > Trac Light and Stop Sign
Control. Once enabled, Trac Light and Stop Sign
Control operates whenever Trac-Aware Cruise
Control or Autosteer is active.
How it Works
When Trac Light and Stop Sign Control is enabled and
you are using Autosteer or
the touchscreen displays a popup message to inform
you that an upcoming trac light, stop sign, or road
marking has been detected. As it approaches the stop
location,
green, Model 3 slows down and displays a red line to
indicate where
the intersection—even if the trac light is green —you
must press down on the drive stalk or briefly press the
accelerator pedal to give the vehicle permission to
proceed. When you've
proceed, the red stop line turns gray and Model 3
continues through the intersection and resumes your set
cruising speed.
NOTE: If Model 3 is approaching a green light and
detects that a vehicle in front of you is continuing
through the intersection, Model 3 continues through the
intersection without requiring your confirmation,
provided you are not in a turning lane and your hands
are detected on the steering wheel.
NOTE: If, after you press down on the drive stalk or
briefly press the accelerator pedal to confirm that you
want to continue through the intersection, the
signal changes before you enter the intersection (for
example, the light changes from green to yellow or from
yellow to red), Model 3 may determine that it is not
appropriate to proceed. Therefore, Model 3 stops and
you must press the accelerator to proceed. At all times,
it is your responsibility to ensure the vehicle stops or
accelerates appropriately and safely.
Trac Light and Stop Sign Control is designed to
operate as described only when the following conditions
are met:
• Autosteer or Trac-Aware Cruise Control is engaged.
•
even at an intersection where the trac light is
Model 3 will stop. To continue through
WARNING:
DOES NOT turn Model 3 through an intersection.
When in a turning lane, Model 3 stops at the red
stop line. To proceed, press down on the drive
stalk or briefly press the accelerator pedal—Model
3 continues straight through the intersection (even
when in a turning lane), so you MUST manually
steer Model 3 through the intersection (which
cancels Autosteer).
The cameras can detect an upcoming trac light,
stop sign or road marking (for example, cameras are
unobstructed and have a clear line-of-sight to the
trac light, stop sign, or road marking).
Trac Light and Stop Sign Control
Trac-Aware Cruise Control,
confirmed that you want to
trac
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Trac Light and Stop Sign Control
• The touchscreen on Model 3 is displaying an
upcoming trac light in "bold" format. Model 3 does
not acknowledge trac lights that the touchscreen
shows as faded. If a trac light is not directly ahead
of the camera (for example, it is located at an angle
of the camera's view, or located in an adjacent lane)
the
touchscreen displays it as faded and Model 3
does not slow down and stop for it.
WARNING: If the touchscreen is not displaying a
red stop line at an upcoming intersection, Model 3
does not slow down or stop. It is the driver's
responsibility to pay attention to upcoming
intersections and monitor trac conditions to
determine when and if the vehicle should stop and
then to take appropriate action as needed.
WARNING: Never depend on Trac Light and
Stop Sign Control to determine whether to stop at,
or proceed through, an intersection. Drive
attentively by watching the road and paying
attention to the roadway, upcoming intersections,
trac conditions, crosswalks, and other road users.
It is always the driver's responsibility to determine
whether to stop or proceed. Be prepared to take
immediate action. Failure to do so can result in
injury or death.
WARNING: In some situations, Trac Light and
Stop Sign Control may inaccurately detect a trac
light or stop sign, causing Model 3 to slow down
unexpectedly. Be prepared to take immediate
action at all times.
WARNING: You must press down on the drive stalk
or briefly press the accelerator pedal to confirm
that you want to proceed through an intersection,
regardless of the status of the trac light. If you
do not confirm, Model 3 stops at the red stop line
displayed on the touchscreen, even if stopping
may be inappropriate. Stopping at a green light
may confuse other drivers and may result in a
collision, injury or death. Therefore, always pay
attention to upcoming intersections and be
prepared to manually brake or accelerate in
response to surroundings.
WARNING: Never assume that your ability to see a
trac light, stop sign, or road marking (especially
at a complex intersection, or an intersection in
which a trac light or sign is partially obstructed,
etc.) means that Model 3 can also see it and
respond appropriately.
WARNING: Even the most recent map data does
not include all trac lights and stop signs.
Therefore, Trac Light and Stop Sign Control
relies heavily on the ability of the cameras to
detect trac lights, stop signs, road markings, etc.
As a result, Model 3 may ignore an intersection
that is blocked from the camera's view (for
example, obstructed by a tree or a large vehicle or
object, or located near a steep hill or sharp curve).
WARNING: Trac Light and Stop Sign Control is
not a substitute for attentive driving and sound
judgment.
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Trac Light and Stop Sign Control
Trac Lights
When driving with Autosteer or Trac-Aware Cruise Control engaged, and Trac Light and Stop Sign Control
enabled, Model 3 is designed to respond as follows when approaching intersections controlled by a trac light:
Type of Trac Light Vehicle Intended Response
At a solid green trac light, or at a trac light that is currently o (not
illuminated), Model 3 slows down.
If you are following a car in front of you that continues through the intersection,
the touchscreen displays a green stop line and provided your hands are detected
on the
touchscreen displays a red stop line and you must confirm that you want to
continue through the intersection by pressing down on the drive stalk or briefly
pressing the accelerator pedal. If you don’t confirm, Model 3 stops at the red stop
line.
NOTE: Model 3 resumes the set cruising speed when it continues through the
intersection, taking into consideration the speed of a vehicle in front of you.
steering wheel, Model 3 also continues. If a car is not in front of you, the
Model 3 slows down and comes to a complete stop at the red stop line displayed
on the touchscreen. When you want to continue through the intersection (for
example, the light turns green again, or once Model 3 has come to a complete
stop), you must press down on the drive stalk or briefly press the accelerator
pedal.
Model 3 slows down and comes to a complete stop at the red stop line displayed
on the touchscreen. When you want to proceed through the intersection (for
example, the light turns green again), you must press down on the drive stalk or
briefly press the accelerator pedal.
NOTE: If the trac light changes after you've confirmed that you want to proceed
(for example, a green
continuing, especially if Model 3 determines that it can safely stop before entering
the intersection.
NOTE: Model 3 is not designed to proceed through an intersection when the trac
light is red or if the light turns yellow in situations when there is adequate distance
to safely stop before entering the intersection.
NOTE: You can take over driving at any time by manually braking to cancel
Autosteer or
Trac-aware Cruise Control.
trac light turns yellow), Model 3 may stop instead of
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Trac Light and Stop Sign Control
Type of Trac Light Vehicle Intended Response
Model 3 slows down. To proceed, you must press down on the drive stalk or briefly
press the accelerator pedal. If you don’t, Model 3 stops at the red stop line
displayed on the touchscreen.
NOTE: To prevent Model 3 from stopping, and to minimize how much it slows down
as it approaches, you can confirm that you want to proceed by pressing down on
the drive stalk or briefly pressing the accelerator pedal at any time after the
touchscreen displays the red stop line. Model 3 resumes your set cruising speed
immediately after you confirm (taking into consideration the speed of a vehicle in
front of you).
WARNING: Approach attentively and be prepared to press the brake pedal to
slow down or stop.
Model 3 slows down and comes to a complete stop at the red stop line displayed
on the touchscreen. When you want to proceed through the intersection (for
example, trac laws and conditions indicate it is safe and legal to proceed), you
must press down on the drive stalk or briefly press the accelerator pedal.
98 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual
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