Thinking about adding your new (or new-to-you!) Tesla to your Tesla app? Fantastic! This is a crucial step to unlock the full potential of your vehicle, allowing you to control many features right from your phone. Whether it's pre-conditioning the cabin, checking charging status, or even summoning your car, the Tesla app makes ownership incredibly convenient. Let's get you set up!
Step 1: Prepare for the Digital Embrace
Before diving into the app itself, there are a few important preparatory steps to ensure a smooth addition of your Tesla. Don't skip these, as they'll make the entire process much easier!
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| How To Add Tesla To Tesla App |
A. Confirming Your Tesla Account
First things first, do you have a Tesla Account? If you purchased your Tesla directly from Tesla, you likely already have one. This account is the central hub for all your Tesla products and services.
New Tesla Owners (Direct Purchase): If you ordered your Tesla directly from Tesla, the vehicle is usually automatically added to your Tesla app upon delivery. You'll likely just need to log in to the app.
Used Tesla Owners (Third-Party or Private Sale): If you bought your Tesla used from a third party or a private seller, you'll need to claim ownership of the vehicle. This is a critical distinction from simply adding a driver. Claiming ownership grants you full control and access to all app features, including Supercharging and roadside assistance. If you don't have a Tesla account yet, you'll need to create one.
B. Gathering Essential Information
Have these details handy, especially if you're claiming ownership of a used Tesla:
Your Tesla Account Credentials: Your email and password for the Tesla app.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): This unique 17-character code can usually be found on your vehicle's dashboard (visible through the windshield), on a sticker in the driver's side door jamb, or on your vehicle's registration documents.
Proof of Ownership (for used vehicles): This might include:
Photo of Driver's License/Passport/State ID (for personal identification)
Photo of Registration/Title/Bill of Sale/Temporary Registration (as proof of vehicle ownership)
Business Documents (if your business is the owner, e.g., business card, company license, DBA document)
Access to Wi-Fi and the Vehicle: For the app to communicate effectively with your car during setup, both your phone and the vehicle should have internet connectivity. Make sure your car is connected to Wi-Fi.
C. Update Your Tesla App
Ensure you have the latest version of the Tesla app installed on your smartphone. Outdated app versions might lack certain features or have compatibility issues. Check your app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS) for any pending updates.
QuickTip: Revisit this post tomorrow — it’ll feel new.
Step 2: The Core Process - Adding Your Tesla
The exact steps can vary slightly depending on how you acquired your Tesla.
A. For Tesla Purchased Directly from Tesla (New or Used through Tesla's Certified Used Program)
As mentioned, these vehicles are typically automatically added to your account.
Download and Open the Tesla App: If you haven't already, download the Tesla app from your phone's app store.
Log In: Open the app and log in using your Tesla account credentials.
Confirm Vehicle Presence: Your Tesla should appear on the home screen of the app. If not, proceed to the "Claiming Ownership" section below, or contact Tesla support.
Enable Mobile Access (In-Car): In your Tesla, on the touchscreen, navigate to Controls > Safety > Allow Mobile Access and ensure this setting is enabled.
Bluetooth On: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and that the Tesla app has permission to use Bluetooth in your phone's settings. This is crucial for "Phone Key" functionality.
B. For Tesla Purchased from a Third Party or Private Seller (Used Vehicle - Claiming Ownership)
This is where the "add product" feature comes in! This process essentially transfers the vehicle's ownership to your Tesla account.
Open the Tesla App.
Navigate to "Add Product":
If you do not have any Tesla vehicles in your app: Look for a menu icon (often three lines or dots) in the top-right corner. Tap it, then select "My Products" (or similar, it might just be the main menu) and then "Add Product."
If you already have a Tesla vehicle in your app: Tap the name of your current vehicle in the top-left corner to open the product dropdown. From there, tap "Add Product."
Follow the Prompts: The app will guide you through the process, which will typically involve:
Entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Uploading your personal identification documents.
Uploading your proof of ownership documents.
Submitting owner information.
Wait for Verification: Once you've submitted your request, Tesla will review the documents. This process can take anywhere from 3 to 5 business days, and sometimes longer. You will receive an email confirmation once the ownership transfer is complete.
Enable Mobile Access (In-Car): While you wait for ownership transfer, if you have temporary access, ensure "Allow Mobile Access" is enabled on the car's touchscreen (Controls > Safety > Allow Mobile Access).
Bluetooth On: Make sure your phone's Bluetooth is on and enabled for the Tesla app.
Important Note on Ownership Transfer: It's paramount that if you're buying from a private seller, the previous owner transfers the vehicle out of their account first. This can also be done via their Tesla app under "Remove or Transfer Ownership." If they initiate the transfer, you might receive an email link to accept the transfer. This often streamlines the process.
Step 3: Enjoying Your Connected Tesla Experience ✨
Once your Tesla is successfully added to your app, a world of convenience opens up!
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
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A. Exploring the App's Features
Take some time to explore the various tabs and functions within the Tesla app:
Home Screen: Get a quick overview of your vehicle's status, including charging level, estimated range, and whether it's locked or unlocked.
Controls: Remotely lock/unlock doors, open the front or rear trunk, flash the lights, honk the horn, enable Keyless Driving, vent windows, and even open your garage door if HomeLink is programmed.
Climate: Check the cabin temperature, pre-condition the interior to your desired temperature, turn on/off seat heaters and the steering wheel heater, and enable Dog Mode or Camp Mode.
Security: Manage Sentry Mode, Valet Mode, and Speed Limit Mode. You can also view Dashcam and Sentry Mode clips directly from the app.
Location: See your vehicle's real-time location on a map.
Charging: Monitor charging progress, open/close the charge port, set charge limits, and find nearby Superchargers.
Schedule Service: Easily schedule service appointments for your vehicle.
Upgrade: Purchase software upgrades or accessories.
B. Setting Up Phone Key
One of the most popular features is using your phone as a key.
Ensure your phone's Bluetooth is on.
Open the Tesla app.
Standing near your vehicle, select your vehicle in the app.
Next to "Phone Key," tap the "Set Up" button and follow the prompts. If automatic setup fails, the app will guide you to use your key card for manual setup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓
How to add a second driver to my Tesla app?
You can add up to five additional drivers. In the Tesla app, select your vehicle, tap "Security & Drivers," then "Manage Drivers," and follow the prompts to send an invitation. The new driver will need their own Tesla account.
How to transfer Tesla ownership if I'm selling my car?
As the seller, open the Tesla app, tap the menu (top-right), go to "My Products," then select "Remove or Transfer Ownership." Follow the prompts, providing the buyer's name and email address. Both parties will receive confirmation emails.
Tip: Review key points when done.
How to fix "vehicle not connected" in Tesla app?
Ensure your Tesla has a strong internet connection (LTE or Wi-Fi). Check the "Allow Mobile Access" setting in your car's touchscreen (Controls > Safety > Allow Mobile Access). Also, make sure your phone's Bluetooth is on and the app is updated.
How to add a Tesla to the app without the previous owner transferring it?
You'll need to "claim ownership." Open the Tesla app, tap the menu (top-right) or your current vehicle name (top-left) if you have one, then "Add Product." Provide your VIN and upload proof of ownership documents. This can take 3-5 days for Tesla to process.
How to create a Tesla account?
You can create a Tesla account directly through the Tesla app or on the Tesla website. You'll typically need to provide an email address and set a password.
How to use the Tesla app as a key?
Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone. In the Tesla app, select your vehicle, then tap "Set Up" next to "Phone Key" and follow the on-screen instructions while near your car.
Tip: Read once for gist, twice for details.
How to check my Tesla's VIN in the app?
On the Tesla app's home screen, you can often see your vehicle's VIN listed along with other basic information. You can also find it on the car's touchscreen.
How to know if my Tesla is connected to Wi-Fi?
On your Tesla's touchscreen, tap the Wi-Fi icon (usually at the top of the screen or in the connectivity settings) to see the current Wi-Fi network status.
How to check for Tesla app updates?
Go to your phone's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS) and search for "Tesla." If an update is available, you'll see an "Update" button.
How to troubleshoot if my Tesla app is not working?
First, ensure your app is updated. Try force-closing and reopening the app, or even reinstalling it. Check your phone's internet connection and verify that "Allow Mobile Access" is enabled on your car's touchscreen. If issues persist, contact Tesla support.
You can learn more about how to add a vehicle to your Tesla account in this video:
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