Wondering how to keep tabs on your Tesla's mileage? Whether you're tracking for personal records, maintenance, or resale value, knowing how to access this information is key. Let's dive into the various ways you can view your Tesla's mileage, both total and for specific trips!
Step 1: Let's Get Started – Where Do You Want to Look First?
The great thing about Tesla is that you have a few convenient options to check your mileage. Do you prefer using the in-car touchscreen, or are you more of a mobile app person? We'll cover both, so pick whichever suits your current situation!
Step 2: Accessing Total Mileage (Odometer)
The odometer shows the total distance your Tesla has traveled since it was manufactured. This is the official mileage for your vehicle.
2.1: Through Your Tesla's Touchscreen
This is the most common way to view your total mileage directly in your vehicle.
Step 2.1.1: Tap the Car Icon
On your Tesla's touchscreen, locate the car icon (usually at the bottom-left of the screen) and tap it. This opens the "Controls" menu.
Step 2.1.2: Navigate to "Software"
Within the "Controls" menu, look for and tap the "Software" tab.
Step 2.1.3: Find Your Odometer
Underneath the image of your car, you'll see details like the vehicle model, VIN, and most importantly, your total odometer reading. It's usually displayed clearly.
2.2: Through the Tesla Mobile App
For ultimate convenience, you can also check your total mileage right from your smartphone.
Step 2.2.1: Open the Tesla App
Launch the Tesla mobile app on your smartphone and ensure you're logged in.
Step 2.2.2: Scroll Down
Once the app is open and connected to your vehicle, simply scroll down to the very bottom of the main screen. Your vehicle's total odometer reading will be displayed there, along with other details like your car's model and software version.
Step 3: Utilizing Trip Odometers for Specific Journeys
Beyond the total odometer, Teslas offer handy "trip meters" (often called trip odometers) that allow you to track mileage for individual drives or specific periods. This is excellent for monitoring fuel efficiency for a particular journey, tracking mileage for work, or even knowing when to rotate your tires!
3.1: Viewing Trip Information on the Touchscreen
Your Tesla provides two primary trip meters, "Trip A" and "Trip B," plus a "Current Trip" option.
Step 3.1.1: Access the "Trips" Menu
Tap the car icon (Controls) on your touchscreen.
Then, select the "Trips" tab.
Step 3.1.2: Explore Your Trip Meters
Here you'll see "Trip A" and "Trip B." These can be renamed by tapping on their names and reset using the "Reset" button located further down the screen for each trip.
You'll also find the "Current Trip" odometer. This one is unique as it automatically resets after each drive (if the vehicle is left in park for more than a few minutes). It shows distance, time driven, and average energy usage for your current drive.
3.2: Displaying Trip Cards While Driving (Model 3 & Y)
For quick glance access to trip information while on the go, Model 3 and Model Y owners can use "trip cards."
Step 3.2.1: Swipe on the Music Player
On your touchscreen, if you see the mini music player controls, swipe left on them. This will cycle through different cards, including trip cards and tire pressure.
If you don't see the music player, tap the gray music icon in your vehicle's bottom menu to bring it up.
Step 3.2.2: Select Trip Meters for Display
To choose which trip meters appear on these cards, go back to Controls > Trips and tap "Show in Trips Card" for the trip meters you want to see.
Step 4: Understanding Mileage Data and Its Importance
Keeping an eye on your Tesla's mileage isn't just about curiosity; it's vital for several reasons:
Maintenance Schedules: Knowing your total mileage helps you adhere to recommended service intervals for tires, brakes, and other components.
Warranty Information: Vehicle warranties are often tied to mileage limits.
Resale Value: A vehicle's mileage significantly impacts its market value.
Personal Tracking: For those tracking business expenses or personal driving habits, trip meters are invaluable.
Energy Consumption: Trip meters display average energy usage, helping you understand your driving efficiency.
Step 5: What if the Display Changes? Software Updates!
Tesla is known for its over-the-air software updates, which can sometimes alter the interface or introduce new features. If you find the steps above don't perfectly match what you see on your screen, don't worry!
Consult Your Owner's Manual: Your Tesla's digital owner's manual (accessible via the touchscreen) is always the most up-to-date resource for your specific software version.
Check for Updates: Ensure your car's software is up to date by going to Controls > Software. A newer version might have a slightly different layout.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tesla Mileage
Here are 10 common questions related to viewing mileage on your Tesla:
How to check the total mileage on my Tesla?
To check the total mileage (odometer) on your Tesla, go to Controls > Software on your car's touchscreen, or open the Tesla mobile app and scroll to the bottom of the main screen.
How to see the mileage for my current drive on a Tesla?
Your Tesla has a "Current Trip" odometer that shows mileage for your ongoing drive. You can find this under Controls > Trips on the touchscreen.
How to reset a trip meter in my Tesla?
To reset a trip meter (Trip A or Trip B), go to Controls > Trips on your Tesla's touchscreen and tap the "Reset" button associated with the specific trip meter you wish to clear.
How to rename a trip meter in my Tesla?
You can rename "Trip A" or "Trip B" by going to Controls > Trips on the touchscreen and tapping on the existing name of the trip meter.
How to see past trip information on a Tesla?
Tesla's touchscreen under Controls > Trips will show your "Trip A" and "Trip B" which can be manually reset, allowing you to track specific past journeys. The "Current Trip" resets automatically.
How to display mileage on the dashboard while driving in a Model 3 or Y?
In Model 3 and Model Y, you can swipe left on the mini music player controls on your touchscreen to cycle through "trip cards" that can display chosen trip meters.
How to access the odometer through the Tesla app?
Open the Tesla mobile app, and simply scroll down to the very bottom of the main screen where your vehicle is displayed; the odometer reading will be visible there.
How to check energy consumption alongside mileage on my Tesla?
When viewing "Trip A," "Trip B," or "Current Trip" under Controls > Trips, your Tesla will also display average energy usage in Wh/mile or Wh/km.
How to find the VIN and software version with the mileage in Tesla?
Both the total odometer reading in Controls > Software (on the touchscreen) and at the bottom of the main screen in the Tesla mobile app will display your vehicle's VIN and current software version alongside the mileage.
How to troubleshoot if my Tesla mileage isn't displaying correctly?
If you suspect an issue with your mileage display, first check for any pending software updates by going to Controls > Software. If the problem persists, consult your Tesla owner's manual or contact Tesla service.
For more information on managing your Tesla's data, check out this video:
