Congratulations on your new Tesla Model 3! Get ready to experience a revolutionary way of driving. Unlike traditional cars, a Tesla doesn't have a conventional "ignition" or "start" button. It's designed to be intuitive and ready to go almost instantly. Let's dive into how to power on your Model 3 and get you on the road.
Step 1: Getting Started – Your Tesla's "Keys"
First things first, let's talk about how your Model 3 recognizes you. Tesla uses a few innovative ways to grant you access and allow you to power on your vehicle. Engage with this step by choosing your preferred method of entry!
Sub-heading 1.1: The Phone Key (Your Primary Access)
Your smartphone is your primary key for the Model 3. This is the most convenient way to interact with your car.
Download the Tesla App: If you haven't already, download the official Tesla app from your phone's app store (iOS or Android).
Sign In: Sign in with your Tesla account credentials. This is the same account you used to order your vehicle.
Enable Bluetooth: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone. The Model 3 uses Bluetooth to communicate with your phone.
Set Up Phone Key:
Open the Tesla app.
Select your Model 3.
Look for the "Phone Key" option and tap "Set Up."
Follow the on-screen instructions. You might be prompted to use your key card (see below) to complete the setup.
Once set up, your phone will automatically unlock the car as you approach and lock it as you walk away!
Sub-heading 1.2: The Key Card (Your Reliable Backup)
The key card is a sleek, credit-card-sized key that acts as a backup or for situations where you don't have your phone.
Locating the RFID Reader: To unlock or lock the car with the key card, you'll swipe it on the B-pillar (the pillar between the front and rear doors) where the RFID transmitter is located.
Placing the Card for Driving: If your phone key isn't detected (e.g., low phone battery) and you want to drive, place the key card behind the cup holders in the center console. This allows the car to read it and enable driving.
Sub-heading 1.3: The Key Fob (Optional Accessory)
Some owners purchase a key fob as an additional accessory.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
Approach and Unlock: Similar to the phone key, simply approach the car with the key fob in your pocket or bag. Push in the larger part of the door handle and pull to open the door.
Automatic Locking: The car will automatically lock when you walk away with the key fob.
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| How To Power On Tesla Model 3 |
Step 2: Entering Your Model 3 and Initial Power-Up
Now that you've unlocked your Tesla, it's time to get inside and observe the initial power-up.
Open the Door: Once unlocked, press the wider part of the flush door handle, and it will pop out, allowing you to open the door.
Touchscreen Activation: As soon as you open a door to enter Model 3, the large central touchscreen automatically powers on. This is your command center for virtually all vehicle functions.
Step 3: Ready to Drive – The "Ignition" Moment
Unlike traditional cars with an ignition button or key turn, a Tesla is always "on" in a sense. The crucial step to making it ready to drive is engaging the brake pedal.
Press the Brake Pedal: With your foot on the brake pedal, the Model 3 "powers on" and is ready to drive. You'll notice the driving interface appears on the touchscreen.
PIN to Drive (If Enabled): If you have enabled the "PIN to Drive" feature for added security, you will be prompted to enter your four-digit PIN on the touchscreen before you can shift into a drive mode.
Step 4: Shifting into Drive or Reverse
The Model 3 uses a stalk on the right side of the steering column for gear selection.
For Drive (D): Push the drive stalk down fully.
For Reverse (R): Push the drive stalk up fully.
For Park (P): Press the button on the end of the drive stalk.
For Neutral (N): Gently push the drive stalk up or down to the first detent and hold it for about two seconds.
Step 5: Getting Familiar with the Touchscreen
The touchscreen is central to your Tesla experience. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with its layout.
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
Controls: Access vehicle settings like lights, wipers, mirrors, climate control, and more.
Navigation: Your built-in navigation system is highly integrated and intuitive.
Media: Control your music, podcasts, and other audio.
Camera Views: Access live camera feeds.
Driver Profile: Create and select driver profiles to automatically adjust seats, mirrors, and climate to your preferences.
Step 6: Powering Off (It's Simpler Than You Think)
You don't actively "turn off" a Tesla in the traditional sense.
Shift into Park (P): When you're done driving, shift the vehicle into Park using the button on the end of the drive stalk.
Exit the Vehicle: Simply exit the vehicle with your phone key or key fob. The car will automatically power off and lock after you leave.
Automatic Power Off: The Model 3 will also power off automatically after being in Park for 30 minutes, even if you remain in the driver's seat.
Manual Power Off (Rarely Needed): If you ever need to manually power off the vehicle while sitting inside (e.g., for troubleshooting), touch Controls > Safety > Power Off on the touchscreen. Wait for at least two minutes without interacting with the vehicle, then press the brake pedal or open a door to wake it back up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to turn on a Tesla Model 3 with a dead phone?
If your phone is dead, you can use your key card. Place the key card behind the cup holders in the center console, then press the brake pedal to power on the car.
How to power on a Tesla Model 3 if the touchscreen is unresponsive?
First, try restarting the touchscreen by holding down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the screen turns black and the Tesla logo appears. If that doesn't work, you might need to perform a "power cycle" by shifting into Park, going to Controls > Safety > Power Off on the touchscreen, waiting at least two minutes without interacting with the vehicle, and then pressing the brake pedal or opening a door.
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
How to start driving a Tesla Model 3 for the first time?
After unlocking the car (with phone key, key card, or key fob), simply enter the vehicle, press the brake pedal, and then use the right stalk on the steering column to shift down for Drive or up for Reverse.
How to enable or disable "PIN to Drive" on a Tesla Model 3?
On your touchscreen, navigate to Controls > Safety > PIN to Drive and follow the prompts to set up or disable your PIN.
How to use the key card to power on a Tesla Model 3?
To drive with the key card, place it on the center console's card reader (behind the cup holders) after entering the car, and then press the brake pedal.
How to manually power off a Tesla Model 3?
While in Park, touch Controls > Safety > Power Off on the touchscreen. Remember to wait at least two minutes without touching the car for a complete power-down cycle.
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How to set up a phone key for a Tesla Model 3?
Download the Tesla app, sign in, enable Bluetooth on your phone, and then in the app, select your vehicle and tap "Set Up" next to "Phone Key." You may need to use your physical key card to finalize the setup.
How to shift into neutral in a Tesla Model 3?
Gently push the right-hand drive stalk up or down to the first detent and hold it for approximately two seconds.
How to adjust regenerative braking in a Tesla Model 3?
Regenerative braking settings are typically found under Controls > Driving on your touchscreen. You can usually choose between standard or low settings, or sometimes enable "Hold" mode for stronger regeneration.
How to troubleshoot if my Tesla Model 3 isn't detecting my key?
Ensure your phone's Bluetooth is on and the Tesla app is open. If using a key card, make sure it's placed correctly on the reader. If the issue persists, try restarting your phone or the Tesla's touchscreen.
For a visual guide on driving a Tesla for the first time, you can watch this
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