Want to know if that sleek Tesla you're eyeing, or even your current one, is equipped with the highly sought-after Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability? It's a common question, as Tesla's self-driving features can be a bit nuanced. Don't worry, we'll walk through exactly how to confirm FSD status, step by step, and clarify some key differences along the way. Let's dive in!
A Comprehensive Guide: Unmasking Your Tesla's FSD Status
Understanding whether a Tesla has FSD isn't always as straightforward as checking a badge. It involves looking at both the software and, in some cases, the hardware of the vehicle. Here's how to figure it out:
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| How To Know If Tesla Has Fsd |
Step 1: Engage with Your Tesla's Touchscreen (The Easiest Method!)
This is the most direct and reliable way to ascertain FSD capability. So, hop into your Tesla and let's get started!
Sub-heading 1.1: Navigating to the Software Menu
Turn on your Tesla's touchscreen. It's the large display dominating your dashboard.
Locate and tap the "Car" icon (usually in the bottom left corner) to bring up the main settings and control panel.
On the left-hand side menu, look for and tap on "Software". This section provides crucial information about your car's software version and included features.
Sub-heading 1.2: Identifying FSD Capability
Once you're in the "Software" menu, carefully examine the displayed information.
Look for "Full Self-Driving Capability - Included Package": If you see this exact phrase, congratulations! Your Tesla has FSD. This indicates that the FSD package has been purchased and is active on the vehicle.
Beware of "Autopilot Computer: Full Self-Driving Computer": This phrase only means your car has the necessary hardware to support FSD, not that the FSD software package itself is enabled or purchased. It's an important distinction! Many Teslas built after mid-2019 come with the FSD computer (Hardware 3.0 or later), but FSD software is a separate, often costly, upgrade or subscription.
Check for an "Autopilot" section: In some cases, within the "Software" or "Controls" menu, there might be a dedicated "Autopilot" section. If FSD is available, you may see options related to it, or even an "opt into Full Self Driving" button if it's the first time it's being enabled.
Tip: Each paragraph has one main idea — find it.
Step 2: Leverage the Tesla Mobile App
The Tesla mobile app is a powerful tool for owners, and it can also tell you about your car's FSD status.
Sub-heading 2.1: Accessing Vehicle Information
Open the Tesla app on your smartphone.
Select the specific Tesla vehicle you want to check if you have multiple vehicles linked to your account.
Scroll to the very bottom of the main screen.
Sub-heading 2.2: Locating FSD Details in the App
At the bottom of the app's main vehicle screen, you'll see your software version and, if you have FSD purchased or subscribed, it will indicate its presence.
Similar to the in-car display, look for clear indications of "Full Self-Driving Capability."
Important Note: The app might not display the specific FSD software version unless you are actively subscribed or have purchased FSD outright. If you're seeing only your general software version (e.g., "V12 (2024.x.x)"), it might not have FSD enabled.
Step 3: Understanding Hardware Versions (And Why They Matter Less Now)
While earlier Teslas had various hardware versions (HW1, HW2, HW2.5), most Teslas capable of FSD today come with Hardware 3.0 (HW3) or the newer Hardware 4.0 (HW4). All Teslas with HW3 or HW4 are capable of running FSD.
Sub-heading 3.1: Checking Your Hardware Version
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
Inside your car, navigate to Controls > Software > Additional Vehicle Information.
Look for "Autopilot Computer." It will typically say "Tesla FSD Chip" followed by a version number (e.g., HW3 or HW4).
Sub-heading 3.2: The Hardware vs. Software Distinction
Having HW3 or HW4 doesn't automatically mean FSD is active. It simply means the car has the brains to run FSD.
The actual FSD software package (which enables the advanced features) is a separate purchase or subscription. Tesla has made commitments to upgrade HW2/2.5 cars to HW3 if the owner purchased FSD. However, upgrading from HW3 to HW4 is currently not offered by Tesla due to significant wiring and sensor differences.
Step 4: Decoding FSD's Features (What You Should Expect)
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If your Tesla does have FSD, here are some of the key features you should be able to access (often referred to as "Full Self-Driving (Supervised)" as it still requires active driver supervision):
Navigate on Autopilot: This allows the car to navigate itself from on-ramp to off-ramp on highways, including automatic lane changes, taking exits, and merging.
Auto Lane Change: When Autopilot is engaged, the car can automatically change lanes to follow your navigation route or to pass slower vehicles.
Autopark: Your Tesla will automatically detect and maneuver into parallel and perpendicular parking spots.
Summon: This feature allows you to move your car short distances using the Tesla app, typically for pulling it out of tight parking spots.
Smart Summon: An enhancement of Summon, enabling your car to navigate through parking lots and retrieve itself from a parking space to your location.
Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control: The car will recognize and react to traffic lights and stop signs, bringing the car to a stop as needed (still requiring driver confirmation in some instances).
Automatic City Driving: This is the core of FSD, allowing the car to navigate city streets, make turns, and generally handle complex urban driving scenarios. This feature is continuously evolving with software updates.
Related FAQ Questions
How to check if a used Tesla has FSD?
The most reliable way is to check the car's touchscreen under "Controls" > "Software." Look for "Full Self-Driving Capability - Included Package." You can also ask the seller to show you their Tesla app, or check for the feature yourself in person.
How to purchase FSD for my Tesla after delivery?
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
You can typically purchase FSD as an upgrade through your Tesla app. Go to "Upgrades" > "Software Upgrades." You'll see the option for Full Self-Driving Capability.
How to differentiate between Full Self-Driving and Enhanced Autopilot?
Enhanced Autopilot (EAP) includes features like Navigate on Autopilot, Auto Lane Change, Autopark, Summon, and Smart Summon. FSD includes all EAP features and adds Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control, and Automatic City Driving. Tesla's offerings have evolved, but FSD is the more comprehensive package for city driving.
How to know which FSD hardware version my Tesla has?
Go to "Controls" > "Software" > "Additional Vehicle Information" on your Tesla's touchscreen. Look for "Autopilot Computer." It will show your hardware version (e.g., HW3, HW4).
How to determine if my Tesla is eligible for a FSD trial?
Tesla occasionally offers 30-day FSD trials, especially for new and existing owners with eligible vehicles (typically those with HW3 or later and running software version 12.3 or later). You'll usually receive a notification in your Tesla app or on your car's touchscreen if you're eligible.
How to tell if a Tesla's FSD subscription is active?
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
If you're subscribed to FSD, it will be active on your car. You can typically see the FSD features enabled in your car's Autopilot settings. The Tesla app might also indicate an active subscription under the "Upgrades" or "Manage" section.
How to transfer FSD to a new Tesla?
Historically, FSD was not transferable between vehicles except for limited promotional periods. Tesla has recently had a limited-time FSD transfer program (e.g., from April 24, 2025, onwards for new vehicle deliveries). This process typically involves ordering a new Tesla without FSD and then initiating the transfer through the Tesla app, ensuring both vehicles are on the same account.
How to check for the latest FSD software update?
Connect your Tesla to Wi-Fi. On the touchscreen, go to "Controls" > "Software." If an update is available, it will show "Update available." You can also set your "Software Update Preference" to "ADVANCED" to receive updates sooner.
How to know if a Tesla VIN indicates FSD?
A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) itself does not directly indicate if a Tesla has FSD. The VIN provides details about the model, year, and manufacturing plant, but FSD is a software option that can be added or subscribed to after manufacturing. You need to check the car's software or ownership records.
How to use the Tesla app to check FSD status?
Open the Tesla app, select your car, and scroll to the bottom of the main screen. If FSD is enabled, it should be clearly indicated alongside your software version. If you don't see it, it likely means the feature is not active on that vehicle.
For a visual guide on how to find which version of FSD you're on, check out this
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