So, you're ready to get your Tesla sparkling clean, but you've heard whispers of a "Car Wash Mode." You're in the right place! This guide will walk you through exactly how to engage Car Wash Mode and ensure your precious EV glides through the wash process safely and efficiently. Let's dive in!
The Essential Guide to Tesla Car Wash Mode
Tesla's Car Wash Mode is a brilliant feature designed to protect your vehicle from potential damage during automated car washes. It's not just about putting your car in neutral; it's about a comprehensive preparation that safeguards various sensitive components. Ignoring it can lead to costly repairs, as damage caused by car washes is often not covered by warranty.
Step 1: Get Ready – Pre-Wash Checklist
Before you even think about entering that car wash, let's do a quick pre-flight check. This ensures a smooth experience and minimizes any last-minute fumbling.
Park Your Tesla Securely: Make sure your vehicle is completely stopped and in Park. Car Wash Mode cannot be activated if your Tesla is moving or actively charging.
Close Everything Up Tight: Double-check that all windows are fully closed, the sunroof (if applicable) is shut, and all doors are securely latched.
Clear the Exterior: Remove any loose items from the exterior that could get snagged or damaged, such as phone mounts, dash cams, or temporary license plate holders that might be prone to bending.
Confirm Charge Port Closure: Ensure your charge port is firmly closed and locked. Car Wash Mode will lock it, but a manual check is always a good idea.
Step 2: Activating Car Wash Mode on Your Touchscreen ️
This is where the magic happens! Follow these simple steps on your Tesla's large central touchscreen:
Access the Controls Menu: Tap the car icon at the bottom left of your touchscreen. This will open up the main "Controls" menu.
Navigate to the Service Tab: Within the Controls menu, look for and select the "Service" tab. This is where you'll find various maintenance and vehicle-specific options.
Engage Car Wash Mode: In the Service tab, locate and tap "Car Wash Mode."
Confirm Activation: A prompt will appear, usually detailing what Car Wash Mode does. Tap "Confirm" to activate it. You'll likely see a blue banner appear at the top of your screen indicating that Car Wash Mode is active. This is your visual confirmation that your Tesla is ready for its bath!
What Car Wash Mode Does Automatically:
Closes all windows.
Locks the charge port.
Disables windshield wipers (prevents them from activating unintentionally due to water spray).
Turns off Sentry Mode (to avoid unnecessary alarms).
Disables walk-away door locking.
Turns off parking sensor chimes (no annoying beeps during the wash!).
If your Tesla has air suspension, it may automatically lower to make cleaning the roof easier.
Sets the climate control to recirculate to prevent water intrusion.
Step 3: Enabling Free Roll (For Automatic Conveyor Washes)
If you're going through an automatic car wash with a conveyor belt, this is a crucial additional step to ensure your Tesla can roll freely without applying the parking brake or getting stuck.
Stay Stationary: Your vehicle must be stationary.
Enable Free Roll: While in Car Wash Mode, you'll see an "Enable Free Roll" option on the touchscreen.
Press the Brake and Tap "Enable Free Roll": With your foot firmly on the brake pedal, tap "Enable Free Roll" on the screen. This will shift your Tesla into Neutral and keep it there, preventing unintended braking. Some users also report success by simply shifting the gear stalk to Neutral (N) after activating Car Wash Mode, without necessarily needing to tap "Enable Free Roll" on the screen. Practice whichever method feels more comfortable for you before you're in the car wash line!
Important Note: Failure to enable Free Roll in a conveyor-based car wash can cause the car to unexpectedly apply the parking brake, stopping the conveyor and potentially causing damage or holding up the line. Don't be "that Tesla owner"!
Step 4: Through the Wash and Exiting Car Wash Mode ✨
Once your Tesla is in Car Wash Mode and Free Roll (if needed) is enabled, you're all set! Drive slowly and carefully onto the conveyor belt or into the wash bay, following the car wash attendant's instructions.
Exiting Car Wash Mode: Once your Tesla is completely out of the car wash and off the conveyor belt:
Option 1 (Recommended): Tap the "Exit Car Wash Mode" button on the touchscreen, often visible in the blue banner at the top.
Option 2 (Automatic Deactivation): Simply shift your Tesla into Drive and begin driving. Car Wash Mode will automatically disable once your vehicle's speed exceeds approximately 9-10 mph (15 km/h).
After exiting Car Wash Mode, your Tesla will return to its normal operating settings, re-enabling features like Sentry Mode, auto-wipers, and walk-away door locking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to turn on Car Wash Mode in a Tesla?
To turn on Car Wash Mode, navigate to Controls > Service > Car Wash Mode on your Tesla's touchscreen, then tap "Confirm."
How to enable Free Roll in Tesla's Car Wash Mode?
While in Car Wash Mode, with your foot on the brake pedal, tap "Enable Free Roll" on the touchscreen to allow your car to roll freely in an automatic conveyor wash. Alternatively, some owners find shifting the gear stalk to Neutral also works.
How to exit Car Wash Mode on a Tesla?
You can exit Car Wash Mode by tapping the "Exit Car Wash Mode" button on the touchscreen, or by simply driving your Tesla over 9-10 mph, which will automatically disable the mode.
How to ensure my Tesla's charge port doesn't open in a car wash?
Car Wash Mode automatically locks the charge port to prevent it from opening during the wash.
How to stop Tesla wipers from activating in a car wash?
Car Wash Mode disables automatic windshield wipers, preventing them from turning on due to the water spray.
How to prevent Sentry Mode from triggering in a car wash?
Activating Car Wash Mode automatically disables Sentry Mode, so you won't get unnecessary alerts.
How to avoid parking sensor beeps during a Tesla car wash?
Car Wash Mode silences the parking sensor chimes, ensuring a quieter wash experience.
How to wash a Tesla by hand if I don't want to use an automatic car wash?
For hand washing, you don't strictly need Car Wash Mode, but it can still be beneficial for locking ports and disabling automatic features. Use a clean, soft cloth, mild car shampoo, and rinse thoroughly. Avoid washing in direct sunlight.
How to know if my Tesla's Car Wash Mode is active?
A blue banner will typically appear at the top of your Tesla's touchscreen, indicating that Car Wash Mode is active.
How to avoid damage to my Tesla's mirrors in a car wash?
Car Wash Mode automatically folds in the side mirrors to protect them during the wash. However, some owners prefer to keep them unfolded in touchless washes, stating it's safer for their specific car wash type.
For more visual guidance, check out this video:
