Ever wondered if you could squeeze just one more essential control onto your Tesla app's home screen? The standard four quick-access icons are great, but for those of us who use our Teslas constantly, having a fifth shortcut can be a real game-changer. While the Tesla app officially allows for four customizable quick-access icons, there's a clever "Easter egg" or trick that allows you to add a fifth! It's a bit finicky, but with some patience, you'll be enjoying that extra shortcut in no time.
The Secret to the Fifth Icon: A Step-by-Step Guide
This process involves a specific drag-and-drop technique that "tricks" the app into displaying an additional icon. It might take a few tries, so don't get discouraged if it doesn't work on your first attempt!
Step 1: Prepare Your App for Customization
First things first, make sure your Tesla app is up to date. While this trick has been around for a while, having the latest version ensures compatibility and the smoothest experience.
Open your Tesla App: Launch the Tesla app on your smartphone (iOS or Android).
Navigate to the Quick Controls: You'll see your car's image at the top, and below it, the familiar row of four quick-access icons (e.g., Lock, Climate, Frunk, Trunk).
Initiate Edit Mode: To begin customization, tap and hold any of the existing four quick-access icons. After a moment, a menu will pop up, displaying all available icons you can choose from. This is where the magic begins.
Step 2: The Two-Finger Dance (The Tricky Part!)
This is where the precision comes in. You'll essentially be using two fingers to manipulate the icons.
Select Your Fifth Icon: From the list of available icons that appeared, select the icon you want to be your fifth quick access icon. For example, if you frequently use Sentry Mode, select that icon.
Drag and Hover Over the Fourth Icon: Now, using one finger, drag your chosen icon from the list and hover it directly over the fourth existing quick-access icon on your main screen. Do NOT release your finger yet! It should look like you're trying to replace the fourth icon.
The "Push" with Your Second Finger: While still holding the new icon over the fourth, with your other hand (or another finger on the same hand if you're coordinated!), tap and drag the first quick-access icon slightly to the right. This action essentially "pushes" the hidden fifth slot into view. You might see a subtle shift in the icons.
Release Both Fingers (Almost Simultaneously): Once you've performed the "push" and you feel or see a slight adjustment that suggests a fifth space has appeared, release both fingers. It's often a quick, almost simultaneous release.
If successful, you should now see five quick-access icons displayed prominently on your Tesla app's home screen! If it doesn't work, don't worry, just try again from Step 1. The key is the precise timing and placement of the drag-and-drop.
Step 3: Verify and Enjoy Your New Shortcut
Once you've managed to get all five icons to appear:
Confirm the Icons: Double-check that all five icons are present and correctly arranged.
Test Your New Icon: Tap on your newly added fifth icon to ensure it functions as expected.
App Restart (If Needed): In some rare cases, you might need to close and re-open the Tesla app for the changes to fully stick.
Congratulations! You've successfully unlocked the hidden fifth icon on your Tesla app, making your daily interactions with your vehicle even more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to customize the existing four icons on the Tesla app?
You can customize the existing four icons by tapping and holding any of them until the customization menu appears, then dragging and dropping your desired icons from the list.
How to rearrange icons on the Tesla app?
To rearrange icons, tap and hold any icon until the customization menu appears, then simply drag and drop the icons into your preferred order.
How to revert to the default four icons on the Tesla app?
To revert, you can often drag one of the five icons off the row when in edit mode, and the app will typically default back to four. If not, you might need to reinstall the app (though this is a more drastic step).
How to find the customization menu in the Tesla app?
The customization menu appears when you tap and hold any of the quick-access icons on the main screen of the Tesla app.
How to add specific functions like "Sentry Mode" or "Frunk" to the quick access?
After entering customization mode by long-pressing an icon, drag your desired function (like Sentry Mode or Frunk) from the available list into one of the four (or five) quick-access slots.
How to troubleshoot if the fifth icon trick isn't working?
If it's not working, try:
Rebooting your phone.
Ensuring your Tesla app is updated to the latest version.
Practicing the two-finger drag-and-hover technique a few times. It often requires precise timing.
Trying a different combination of icons for the push.
How to ensure the five icons remain after closing and reopening the app?
Once successfully applied using the trick, the five icons should persist even after closing and reopening the app. If they don't, try repeating the steps carefully.
How to use Apple Shortcuts with the Tesla app for more automation?
The Tesla app integrates with Apple Shortcuts, allowing for advanced automation. Go to the Apple Shortcuts app, create a new shortcut, add an action, and search for "Tesla" to see available actions like opening trunks, setting climate, or enabling Dog Mode.
How to access more Tesla controls beyond the quick icons?
Beyond the quick icons, you can access all Tesla controls by tapping on the vehicle image on the app's main screen, which takes you to a detailed control panel.
How to check for Tesla app updates?
You can check for Tesla app updates through your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS) by searching for "Tesla" and seeing if an "Update" button is available.
For a visual guide on customizing your Tesla app icons, you can check out this video:
