It's exciting that you're looking to maximize your Tesla app's functionality! While the Tesla app generally displays four main shortcut icons, there's a clever, unofficial trick that some users have discovered to get a fifth icon to appear. This isn't a standard feature, but rather a UI manipulation. Let's dive into how you can attempt to achieve this.
The Elusive 5th Icon: A UI Trick
Before we begin, it's important to understand that this method isn't officially supported by Tesla. It relies on a specific interaction with the app's user interface that can be a bit finicky. The success rate can vary depending on your phone model, screen size, and even the responsiveness of your touch. Don't be discouraged if it takes a few tries! Think of it like a secret handshake with your Tesla app.
Step 1: Prepare for the "Magic" ✨
First things first, let's get you ready to perform this little trick.
Sub-heading: Open the Tesla App
Launch the Tesla App on your smartphone. Make sure you're on the main screen where your vehicle is displayed and you can see the four quick access icons at the bottom. These usually include "Unlock," "Frunk," "Trunk," and "Charge Port."
Sub-heading: Understand the Goal
The goal here is to "trick" the app into displaying a fifth icon by manipulating how the icons arrange themselves when you try to customize them. It involves a bit of dexterity and timing.
Step 2: Initiating Customization Mode
This is where the actual interaction begins.
Sub-heading: Enter Edit Mode
Press and hold any of the existing four quick access icons at the bottom of the screen. You'll know you're in the right mode when the icons start to "wiggle" slightly, and an "X" appears on them, indicating they can be rearranged or removed. You might also see a "Customize" or "Edit" option appear. Keep holding down one of the icons.
Step 3: The Two-Finger Dance
This is the most crucial part, requiring simultaneous actions. This particular method seems to be the most commonly cited as successful.
Sub-heading: Drag an Icon to the Edge (First Finger)
While still holding down one icon with your first finger, use your second finger (from the same hand or your other hand, whatever feels most comfortable) to drag another icon from the row.
Now, here's the trick: drag this second icon as far to the right edge of the screen as you possibly can. You want it to be almost entirely off-screen.
Do NOT let go of either finger yet!
Sub-heading: The Moment of Truth (Release)
While holding both icons (one in the edit mode, the other dragged to the far right), release both fingers simultaneously. The idea is that as you release, the app tries to re-render the icon bar, and because one icon was forced so far to the right, it creates space for a fifth.
Sub-heading: If It Doesn't Work Immediately
Don't get frustrated! This is a bit of a knack. If you only see four icons, simply repeat Step 2 and Step 3. Try slightly different timings or dragging the second icon a tiny bit more or less to the right. Some users find it helpful to drag the second icon up slightly while pulling it to the right, almost as if you're trying to lift it out of the row before dragging it off-screen.
Step 4: Customizing Your New Icon (and others)
Once you've successfully got that fifth icon to appear, you're not quite done.
Sub-heading: Select Your Desired Shortcut
With the five icons now visible (and still "wiggling"), tap on the new, fifth icon (or any other icon you wish to change). A menu will pop up, allowing you to select from a variety of available quick actions, such as:
Vent (to crack windows)
Sentry Mode
Dog Mode
Walk Away Lock
Defrost
And many more, depending on your vehicle's features and the app version.
Sub-heading: Arrange and Confirm
You can now rearrange any of the five icons by dragging them to your preferred position.
Once you're happy with your selection and arrangement, tap "Done" or the equivalent option (it might be a checkmark or simply tapping outside the customization area) to save your changes.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Enhanced App!
You've done it! You now have a more personalized and efficient Tesla app experience with that coveted fifth shortcut. This can be incredibly useful for quickly accessing a feature you use frequently, saving you a tap or two in the deeper menus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are 10 common questions related to customizing your Tesla app icons:
How to customize the existing four Tesla app icons?
You can customize the existing four icons by pressing and holding any of them until they "wiggle." Then, tap on the icon you wish to change, and a list of available shortcuts will appear for you to select from.
How to revert to the standard four icons on the Tesla app?
To revert to four icons, simply enter the customization mode (press and hold an icon), and then rearrange your desired four icons. If a fifth icon is present, dragging any icon out of the visible row (up or down) or simply making sure only four are in the main visible area and then tapping "Done" usually removes the extra one.
How to ensure the 5th icon trick works consistently?
Consistency isn't guaranteed as it's an unofficial trick. However, practicing the two-finger drag to the far right edge of the screen and releasing simultaneously tends to yield better results. Screen size and phone responsiveness can also play a role.
How to add shortcuts to the Tesla app that aren't on the quick access bar?
For features not available as quick access icons, you'll need to navigate through the app's main menus. For instance, charging limits are found in the "Charging" section, and climate settings are in the "Climate" section.
How to check for Tesla app updates?
You can check for Tesla app updates in your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS). It's always a good idea to keep your app updated for the latest features and bug fixes.
How to troubleshoot if the Tesla app is not responding?
If the Tesla app is not responding, try force-quitting the app and reopening it. If that doesn't work, clear the app's cache (Android) or reinstall the app. Ensure your phone has a stable internet connection.
How to set up Tesla app widgets on my phone's home screen?
For widgets, press and hold an empty space on your phone's home screen, select "Widgets," and then search for "Tesla" or "Tessie" (if using a third-party app that supports Tesla integration). You can then typically drag and drop the widget onto your home screen and customize its appearance and actions.
How to use Apple Shortcuts with the Tesla app?
For iOS users, the Tesla app supports Apple Shortcuts. You can create custom Siri commands or automations within the Apple Shortcuts app to perform Tesla actions (like "Open Frunk") without opening the Tesla app directly.
How to quickly lock/unlock my Tesla using the app?
The "Unlock" and "Lock" (or a single "Unlock" icon that toggles lock status) are typically among the default quick access icons on the Tesla app's main screen, allowing for quick one-tap operation.
How to find my Tesla's charging status in the app?
The charging status, including battery percentage, estimated range, and charging speed, is prominently displayed on the main screen of the Tesla app when your vehicle is connected and charging.
