Concerned about the security of your Tesla? We've all been there – that nagging feeling of "Did I lock the car?" when you're already miles away. Fortunately, the Tesla app is your vigilant companion, providing real-time status updates that can put your mind at ease. Let's dive into how you can use it to confirm your Tesla's locked status, along with other handy security features.
Step 1: Embark on Your Tesla App Journey
First things first, let's make sure you're set up for success!
Sub-heading 1.1: Download and Log In
Are you a Tesla owner but don't have the app yet? Or perhaps you've changed phones? The very first step is to download the Tesla mobile application from your smartphone's app store (available for both iOS and Android). Once downloaded, log in using your Tesla account credentials. This is the same email address and password you used when you ordered your Tesla. Without being logged in, you won't be able to access any real-time vehicle information.
Sub-heading 1.2: Ensure Connectivity
For the app to communicate with your vehicle and provide accurate lock status, both your phone and your Tesla must have an active internet connection. This usually means cellular service for both. If your car is in an underground parking garage with no signal, the app may not be able to update its status. It's always a good idea to have a physical key card or key fob as a backup in such scenarios.
Step 2: Navigating the App to Check Lock Status ️
Once you're logged in and connected, checking your Tesla's lock status is quite straightforward.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Main Dashboard
Upon opening the Tesla app, you'll be greeted by the main dashboard. This screen provides an at-a-glance overview of your vehicle's status. It's designed to be intuitive and show you essential information right away.
Sub-heading 2.2: Identifying the Lock Indicator
Look for the section that displays the status of your vehicle. There will be a clear icon or indicator that represents whether the doors are locked or unlocked. This is typically a visual representation of your car with the doors either shown as closed and secured, or slightly ajar/open.
Locked Icon: If your Tesla is locked, you'll generally see a padlock icon or the image of your Tesla with all doors visually sealed. The text "Locked" might also be displayed.
Unlocked Icon: If your Tesla is unlocked, the icon will typically show the car with open doors or an unlocked padlock. The app might also explicitly state "Unlocked" or "Doors Open." Sometimes, the app may even indicate which specific door or trunk is open.
Sub-heading 2.3: Real-time Updates
The beauty of the Tesla app is its real-time information. As long as both your phone and car have an internet connection, the lock status will update almost instantly if you lock or unlock the car remotely, or if someone manually locks/unlocks it.
Step 3: Taking Action and Enhancing Security
The app isn't just for checking; it's for acting too!
Sub-heading 3.1: Remote Locking and Unlocking
If you discover your Tesla is unlocked when it shouldn't be, you can remotely lock it with a tap of the lock icon within the app. Similarly, you can unlock it if needed. Be mindful that if you unlock it remotely, it won't automatically re-lock itself unless you have "Walk-Away Lock" enabled and your phone key is no longer detected near the vehicle.
Sub-heading 3.2: Notifications and Alerts
The Tesla app offers notifications and alerts that can provide extra peace of mind. You can configure these settings to receive alerts if your vehicle is left unlocked for an extended period, or if a door/trunk/window is left open. This feature is incredibly useful, especially in busy areas or if you're prone to forgetting to double-check.
To enable these, navigate to Controls > Locks > Car Left Open Notifications on your vehicle's touchscreen.
Sub-heading 3.3: Sentry Mode
While not directly related to the lock status indicator, Sentry Mode is a crucial security feature accessible through the app. It uses the car's cameras to monitor suspicious activity around your parked and locked Tesla. If a significant threat is detected, the alarm will activate, and you'll receive an alert on your mobile app, often with recorded video clips (if a USB drive is installed). You can enable Sentry Mode via the touchscreen or the Tesla app.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to configure "Walk-Away Lock" for my Tesla?
To configure "Walk-Away Lock," go to Controls > Locks on your Tesla's touchscreen and ensure the feature is enabled. Your phone key needs to be paired and Bluetooth enabled on your phone.
How to troubleshoot if my Tesla app isn't connecting to my car?
If your app isn't connecting, try signing out and back into the app, power cycling your phone, or deleting and reinstalling the app. Also, ensure Mobile Access is enabled on your car's touchscreen (Controls > Safety > Allow Mobile Access).
How to use a key card to lock/unlock my Tesla?
To use a key card, simply tap it against the card reader located on the driver's side door pillar to lock or unlock your Tesla.
How to check my Tesla's battery charge level on the app?
On the main screen of the Tesla app, you'll see a battery icon and percentage indicating your car's current charge level and estimated range.
How to open the front trunk (frunk) using the Tesla app?
On the main dashboard of the Tesla app, you'll typically find an icon to open the front trunk (often a small car with the front hood slightly ajar).
How to know if Sentry Mode is active via the app?
When Sentry Mode is active, you'll see a red Sentry Mode icon on your car's touchscreen, and the app will indicate its status. You'll also receive notifications if an event occurs.
How to enable mobile access for the Tesla app on my car?
To enable Mobile Access, go to Controls > Safety > Allow Mobile Access on your Tesla's touchscreen. Both your phone and vehicle need to be connected to cellular service.
How to start my Tesla using the mobile app (Keyless Driving)?
Open the Tesla mobile app, navigate to Controls, and then tap Start (or "Keyless Driving"). You'll have a limited time to start driving after enabling this feature.
How to know if a door or trunk is left open on my Tesla?
The Tesla app's main screen will visually indicate if any doors or trunks are open with corresponding icons or messages. You can also receive notifications if "Car Left Open Notifications" are enabled.
How to adjust climate control settings using the Tesla app?
On the main dashboard of the Tesla app, you'll find a section for climate control, allowing you to enable or disable heating/air conditioning and monitor cabin temperature remotely.
You can learn more about how to check if your Tesla is locked and other security features by watching this video:
