Congratulations on taking the leap into the future of driving with your Tesla Model Y! Full Self-Driving (FSD) (Supervised) is a revolutionary feature, but it's crucial to understand how to properly activate and use it to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. This guide will walk you through the process, step by step.
Welcome to the Future of Driving!
So, you've got your Model Y, and you're ready to unleash the power of FSD (Supervised). Are you excited to experience your Tesla navigate city streets, manage lane changes, and even park itself? Let's get started! Remember, while FSD (Supervised) is incredibly advanced, it requires your constant supervision and is not fully autonomous. Always be ready to take control.
Step 1: Ensuring FSD (Supervised) Capability and Readiness
Before you can even think about engaging FSD (Supervised), you need to confirm that your Model Y is equipped and ready for it. This involves checking your software, hardware, and account status.
1.1 Confirming FSD (Supervised) Purchase or Subscription
Did you buy it outright? If you purchased FSD (Supervised) outright when you bought your Model Y, it should already be tied to your vehicle.
Considering a Subscription? If not, you can subscribe to FSD (Supervised) monthly.
Via the Tesla App: Open the Tesla app, tap 'Upgrades,' then 'Software Upgrades,' select 'Full Self-Driving (Supervised),' and tap 'Subscribe.'
Via Vehicle Touchscreen: Go to 'Controls' > 'Upgrades' on your Model Y's touchscreen. If eligible, you'll see the FSD (Supervised) subscription option.
Note: You'll need to have Full Self-Driving computer 3.0 or above. You can check this by going to 'Controls' > 'Software' > 'Additional Vehicle Information' or in the Tesla app under 'Vehicle' > 'Specs & Warranty.' If you don't have it, you'll need to schedule a service appointment for installation.
1.2 Software Updates: Staying Current
Always be updated! FSD (Supervised) continuously improves through over-the-air software updates. Ensure your Model Y has the latest version, specifically FSD (Supervised) software version 12.3 or later for certain trial programs.
Connecting to Wi-Fi: To receive updates promptly, keep your Tesla connected to Wi-Fi whenever possible. You'll get a notification on your touchscreen and in the Tesla app when an update is available.
1.3 Camera Calibration and Cleanliness
Clear Vision is Key: FSD (Supervised) heavily relies on your vehicle's cameras. Before every drive, ensure all cameras are clean and free of obstructions (dirt, snow, ice, condensation).
Calibration: If you've had service work or experienced certain conditions, your cameras might need calibration. Your vehicle will usually notify you if this is required.
Step 2: Activating FSD (Supervised) in Your Model Y
Once you're sure your Model Y is ready, it's time to activate FSD (Supervised).
2.1 Enabling FSD (Supervised) Feature
First-Time Activation: On your touchscreen, go to Controls > Autopilot > Full Self-Driving (Supervised). Carefully read and understand the pop-up window, then touch Yes to enable the feature.
Driver Attention: Tesla emphasizes that you must remain attentive and have your hands on the steering wheel at all times. The cabin camera monitors driver attentiveness.
2.2 Engaging FSD (Supervised) While Driving
Gear Stalk Method (Model 3/Y): When driving on a clearly marked road, pull the right-side gear selector stalk down once.
Touchscreen Button (Stockless Vehicles): For vehicles without stalks, a gray steering wheel icon and the "Start FSD" button appear when FSD (Supervised) is available. Touch the "Start FSD" button on the touchscreen.
Visual Confirmation: When FSD (Supervised) is engaged, the steering wheel icon on your display will turn blue, and a blue line representing your driving path will appear.
2.3 Activating FSD (Supervised) from Park
Starting from a standstill: You can also initiate FSD (Supervised) when your Model Y is in Park.
Enable Feature: First, enable this by touching Controls > Start FSD (Supervised) from Park.
Brake Confirmation (Default): If "Brake Confirm" is enabled (which it is by default), you'll need to briefly press the brake pedal to confirm each time you start FSD (Supervised) from Park.
Set a Destination: (Optional) Enter a destination in your navigation system. If you don't, your Model Y will choose the most probable driving path or suggest a destination.
Step 3: Customizing and Supervising FSD (Supervised)
FSD (Supervised) offers some customization options to suit your driving preferences, but remember, your supervision is paramount.
3.1 Adjusting FSD (Supervised) Profile
Chill vs. Hurry: You can adjust the driving style of FSD (Supervised) by going to Controls > Autopilot > Full Self-Driving (Supervised) Profile.
Chill: Provides a more relaxed driving style with minimal lane changes.
Hurry: Drives with more urgency.
On-the-fly Adjustment: While FSD (Supervised) is engaged, you can tilt the right scroll wheel (on the steering wheel) left or right to quickly change the profile.
3.2 Setting Max Speed Offset
Speed Control: You can set a percentage offset over the currently detected speed limit that FSD (Supervised) can drive. This is useful if you want it to match the flow of traffic more closely. You are always responsible for the vehicle's speed.
3.3 HOV Lane Usage
High Occupancy Vehicle Lanes: Choose whether FSD (Supervised) uses High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes on your route through the settings.
3.4 Staying Engaged and Ready to Take Over
Crucial Reminder: FSD (Supervised) is a supervised system. It is not fully autonomous.
Hands on the Wheel: Always keep your hands on the steering wheel. Tesla's system monitors torque on the wheel and your attentiveness via the cabin camera.
Be Prepared: Always be ready to take immediate control of the vehicle. If you repeatedly ignore warnings to put your hands on the wheel, FSD (Supervised) may be locked out for the remainder of your trip.
Disengaging FSD (Supervised):
Push the drive stalk up once.
Press the right scroll wheel (for stockless vehicles).
Intervene with the steering wheel (gentle turn).
Gently press the brake pedal.
FSD (Supervised) Features and What to Expect
FSD (Supervised) is designed to handle various driving scenarios:
Route Navigation: Intelligently and accurately completes driving maneuvers for you, including following your navigation route.
Steering & Lane Keeping: Steers within clearly marked lanes.
Lane Changes: Can suggest and perform lane changes.
Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control: Identifies and responds to traffic lights and stop signs, bringing the vehicle to a stop when necessary (under your active supervision).
Autopark: Automatically maneuvers into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces.
Summon & Smart Summon: Allows you to move your vehicle in and out of tight spaces using the Tesla app. Smart Summon navigates more complex environments to come find you.
Limitations and Warnings to Be Aware Of
While powerful, FSD (Supervision) has limitations:
Environmental Conditions: Performance can be affected by heavy rain, snow, fog, faded lane markings, unclear road signs, bright sunlight, or obstructed cameras.
Road Conditions: Sharp curves, significant elevation changes, or excessively rough roads can impact performance.
Urban Areas: While FSD (Supervised) works on city streets, it's designed for use on highways with clear lane markings and no cross-traffic.
Objects in Lane: FSD (Supervised) is not designed to steer around objects partially in a driving lane and may not stop for objects completely blocking the lane. Always be prepared to take action.
Driver Responsibility: You are always responsible for maintaining control and responsibility for your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are 10 common questions about turning on and using FSD (Supervised) in your Tesla Model Y:
How to check if my Model Y has FSD (Supervised) hardware?
Go to Controls > Software > Additional Vehicle Information on your touchscreen or check in the Tesla app under Vehicle > Specs & Warranty. Look for "Full Self-Driving computer."
How to subscribe to FSD (Supervised) in the Tesla app?
Open the Tesla app, go to Upgrades > Software Upgrades, tap the checkbox next to Full Self-Driving (Supervised), and then tap Subscribe.
How to ensure my Tesla Model Y has the latest FSD (Supervised) software?
Keep your vehicle connected to Wi-Fi regularly. Software updates are delivered over-the-air, and you'll receive a notification when one is available.
How to clean Tesla Model Y cameras for optimal FSD (Supervised) performance?
Gently wipe the camera lenses (located on the B-pillars, front windshield, and rear trunk) with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
How to engage FSD (Supervised) while driving a Model Y?
Pull the right-side gear selector stalk down once. For stockless vehicles, touch the "Start FSD" button on the touchscreen.
How to change the FSD (Supervised) driving profile (Chill/Hurry)?
Go to Controls > Autopilot > Full Self-Driving (Supervised) Profile on your touchscreen, or tilt the right scroll wheel on the steering wheel while FSD is engaged.
How to disengage FSD (Supervised) in my Model Y?
Push the drive stalk up once, press the right scroll wheel (for stockless vehicles), gently turn the steering wheel, or lightly press the brake pedal.
How to start FSD (Supervised) from a parked position in my Model Y?
First, ensure Controls > Start FSD (Supervised) from Park is enabled. If "Brake Confirm" is on, briefly press the brake pedal, then select a destination (optional).
How to understand the visual cues for FSD (Supervised) engagement?
A blue steering wheel icon and a blue line on your display indicate that FSD (Supervised) is actively engaged.
How to troubleshoot FSD (Supervised) issues if it's not working as expected?
Ensure cameras are clean, your software is updated, and you're driving in suitable conditions. If issues persist, check your owner's manual for troubleshooting or contact Tesla service.
Watch a demonstration of Tesla's Full Self-Driving in action:
This video provides a visual overview of FSD in a Model Y, which is relevant to understanding how to turn it on and what to expect.
