Are you ready to unlock a small mystery in your Tesla? For many new Tesla owners, or even seasoned ones who haven't needed to access it often, finding and opening the glove box can be a moment of head-scratching. Unlike traditional cars with a physical latch or button, Tesla's minimalistic design means many functions, including opening the glove box, are integrated into its advanced touchscreen system or accessible via voice commands.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every way to open your Tesla's glove box, from the common methods to the more obscure troubleshooting tips. Let's get started!
Step 1: Discovering the Digital Control (The Most Common Method)
The primary way to access your Tesla's glove box is through its central touchscreen display. This is a deliberate design choice by Tesla to keep the interior clean and button-free.
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| How To Open Tesla Glove Box |
1.1 Locating the "Controls" Icon
First things first, make sure your Tesla is powered on. On your large central touchscreen, you'll want to look for the car icon. This icon typically represents the "Controls" menu for your vehicle. Its exact location can vary slightly depending on your Tesla model and software version, but it's usually found in the bottom left corner or as a prominent icon on the main screen.
1.2 Navigating to the "Glovebox" Option
Once you've tapped the car icon to open the Controls menu, a new screen will appear with various settings and options. Look for the "Glovebox" button. It's usually quite clearly labeled.
1.3 The Grand Opening!
Tap the "Glovebox" button. You'll hear a subtle click, and the glove box will automatically pop open a few inches. A light inside the glove box will also illuminate, making it easy to see what's inside.
To close the glove box, simply push it gently upward until it clicks firmly into its closed position. It won't close electronically, so a little manual effort is needed here.
Step 2: The Magic of Voice Commands (Hands-Free Convenience) ️
Tip: Every word counts — don’t skip too much.
Tesla's voice command system is incredibly intuitive and can handle many functions, including opening the glove box. This is a fantastic option when you want to keep your eyes on the road or your hands on the steering wheel.
2.1 Activating Voice Control
To activate voice control, you'll press the microphone button on your steering wheel. On some models (like older Model S/X), it might be the right scroll wheel pressed in, while on others (Model 3/Y), it's a dedicated microphone icon. You'll hear a chime, indicating the system is ready for your command.
2.2 Speaking Your Command
Once you hear the chime, clearly say: "Open glove box."
2.3 Instant Access (or PIN Prompt)
If you don't have a PIN set for your glove box, it will open immediately. If you have set a PIN, the touchscreen will display a keypad for you to enter your 4-digit code.
Pro-tip: If you're a fan of keeping your car clean and minimalist, this is often the most convenient way to access the glove box!
Step 3: Enhancing Security with a Glovebox PIN
For added security, especially if you keep important documents or a Sentry Mode USB drive in your glove box, Tesla allows you to set a 4-digit PIN.
3.1 Setting Up Your PIN
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
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Go to the touchscreen.
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Tap Controls > Safety > Glovebox PIN.
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Follow the on-screen instructions to set your desired 4-digit PIN.
3.2 Accessing a PIN-Protected Glovebox
When a PIN is enabled, every time you try to open the glove box (either via the touchscreen or voice command), you'll be prompted to enter your PIN on the display before it opens.
Remember: The glove box is generally locked when the vehicle is locked using your phone key, key card, or when Valet Mode is active. However, if you lock the vehicle via the touchscreen lock icon, the glove box might not lock. Always verify your security settings if you're concerned about sensitive items.
Step 4: Troubleshooting Common Glove Box Issues ️
While Tesla glove boxes are generally reliable, you might occasionally encounter an issue.
4.1 Glove Box Won't Open
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Check the Touchscreen: Double-check that you're correctly tapping the "Glovebox" button on the Controls menu.
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Voice Command Try: Attempt to open it with a voice command ("Open glove box") to rule out a touchscreen glitch.
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PIN Issue: If you have a PIN enabled, ensure you're entering the correct one. If you've forgotten it, there's a "Forgot PIN?" option on the PIN entry screen where you can reset it by entering your Tesla account credentials.
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Software Glitch: Sometimes, a simple software reboot can resolve minor issues. Try restarting your touchscreen (hold down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the screen goes black, then release). The screen will reboot after a minute or two.
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Manual Release (Model Specific & Advanced): This is not a general user method and should only be attempted if absolutely necessary, as it involves accessing internal components. Some Tesla models have a manual release cable or mechanism hidden behind the side panel of the dashboard on the passenger side. This is typically for service or emergency situations, and attempting it without proper knowledge could cause damage. It's best to contact Tesla Service if other methods fail.
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4.2 Glove Box Won't Stay Closed
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Obstruction: First, carefully check for any items that might be blocking the latch mechanism. Sometimes a misplaced item can prevent it from fully closing.
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Latch Mechanism: The latch mechanism can sometimes become misaligned or stuck. Gently push the glove box closed, ensuring it aligns properly. If the internal "triggers" (small round pins on the sides) don't spring back, they might need to be adjusted or replaced. This is often a warranty item, so contact Tesla Service.
4.3 USB Port Issues
Many Tesla models have a USB-A port inside the glove box, primarily used for Sentry Mode and Dashcam recording.
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Connectivity: If your Sentry Mode isn't recording, ensure your USB drive is fully inserted and formatted correctly (exFAT recommended).
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Accessibility: The port can be a bit tricky to reach in some models. Some owners use a short USB extension cable to make it more accessible.
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Safe Ejection: Always pause Dashcam recording and disable Sentry Mode on the touchscreen before removing the USB drive to prevent data corruption.
Step 5: Understanding Glove Box Locking Behavior
QuickTip: Scan the start and end of paragraphs.
It's helpful to know when your Tesla's glove box automatically locks or unlocks.
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Vehicle Locked Externally: When you lock your Tesla using your phone key, key card, or the mobile app, the glove box will typically lock as well.
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Walk-Away Door Lock: If you have "Walk-Away Door Lock" enabled and you leave the car with your phone key, the glove box will also lock.
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Valet Mode: When Valet Mode is active, the glove box automatically locks, preventing others from accessing its contents.
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Touchscreen Lock Icon: Crucially, if you only lock your Tesla by tapping the lock icon on the touchscreen's status bar, the glove box may not lock. Keep this in mind for security.
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When Driving: The glove box is generally unlocked while driving, unless a PIN is active. It's always a good practice to keep it closed while the vehicle is in motion to prevent injury in case of a sudden stop or collision.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to open a Tesla Model 3 glove box?
To open a Tesla Model 3 glove box, tap the car icon (Controls) on the touchscreen, then tap "Glovebox."
How to open a Tesla Model Y glove box?
Similar to the Model 3, open a Model Y glove box by touching the car icon (Controls) on the touchscreen, then selecting "Glovebox."
How to open a Tesla Model S glove box?
For a Model S, you can open the glove box via the touchscreen (Controls > Glovebox) or by pressing the voice command button on the steering wheel and saying "Open glove box." Older Model S/X (2012-2020) may also have a triangular button to the right of the touchscreen.
How to open a Tesla Model X glove box?
To open a Tesla Model X glove box, use the touchscreen (Controls > Glovebox) or activate voice command and say "Open glove box." Older Model X models might have a physical switch on the side of the touchscreen.
Tip: Review key points when done.
How to open Tesla glove box with voice command?
Press the microphone button on your steering wheel (or right scroll wheel on some models), wait for the chime, and clearly say, "Open glove box."
How to set a PIN for the Tesla glove box?
On your Tesla's touchscreen, go to Controls > Safety > Glovebox PIN and follow the prompts to set your 4-digit PIN.
How to reset a forgotten Tesla glove box PIN?
If you forget your glove box PIN, go to the PIN entry screen, select "Forgot PIN?" (usually a small link at the bottom), and then enter your Tesla account credentials to reset it.
How to troubleshoot a Tesla glove box that won't open?
First, try opening it via both touchscreen and voice command. If it has a PIN, ensure it's correct or reset it. If problems persist, perform a touchscreen reboot or contact Tesla Service.
How to close the Tesla glove box?
To close the Tesla glove box, simply push it upward until it clicks firmly into its latched, closed position. It does not close electronically.
How to access the USB port inside the Tesla glove box?
Once the glove box is open, the USB port (usually a USB-A) is typically located on the top left or right interior wall. You may need to lean in to see it clearly, or use a short extension cable for easier access.
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