Getting ready to drive your Tesla Model Y is an experience unlike any other car. There's no traditional "start" button or ignition key to turn. Instead, it's a seamless blend of technology and intuition. Let's dive into how you power on your Model Y and get ready for the road!
Step 1: Getting Inside and Awakening Your Tesla
Ever wondered if your Tesla is always "on"? Well, in a way, it is! Unlike gasoline cars, a Tesla is always ready to receive commands and perform background functions. The actual "power on" for driving is a quick, intuitive process.
Unlocking Your Model Y
Before you can power on, you need to get inside! There are a few primary ways to unlock your Tesla Model Y:
The Phone Key (Most Common & Convenient):
Ensure your Tesla mobile app is installed on your smartphone and you're logged into your Tesla account.
Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone, and that the Tesla app has permission to use Bluetooth and access your location (set to "Always" for the best experience).
With your phone in your pocket or bag, simply approach your Model Y. The car will detect your phone's Bluetooth signal, and the exterior lights will flash, the mirrors will unfold, and the doors will unlock as you pull a door handle. It's truly a "walk up and go" experience! ♀️
The Key Card (A Reliable Backup):
Your Model Y comes with two sleek key cards. These are excellent backups if your phone battery dies or you prefer a physical key.
To unlock, tap the key card against the B-pillar (the pillar between the front and rear doors) on the driver's side, just below the Autopilot camera. Hold it there for a second or two until you hear a chime or see the lights flash.
The Key Fob (Optional Accessory):
While not standard with all Model Ys, some owners opt for a key fob. This works much like a traditional car key fob.
Simply press the unlock button on the key fob as you approach your vehicle. It also supports automatic locking and unlocking in some regions.
Step 2: The "Power On" Moment - It's Simpler Than You Think! ✨
Once you're inside your Model Y, you'll notice the large touchscreen in the center. This is your command center!
Activating the Drive System
Your Model Y's touchscreen will power on as soon as you open a door. To "power on" the drive system and be ready to shift into gear:
Press the Brake Pedal: This is the key action! Simply press and hold the brake pedal. You'll hear a slight hum, and the car's systems will fully activate. Indicator lights will briefly flash on the touchscreen, then turn off unless there's an active alert (like an unbuckled seatbelt).
That's it! There's no ignition button to push, no key to turn. The car detects your presence and the brake pedal input, and it's ready to go.
Important Notes:
Time Limit with Key Card/Fob: If you've used a key card or key fob to enter, you have two minutes after scanning it to press the brake pedal and "power on" the car. If you wait longer, you'll need to re-authenticate by placing the key card/fob on the card reader in the center console (behind the cup holders).
Automatic Shut-off: When you exit your Model Y, it automatically shifts into Park. If you unbuckle your seatbelt and the vehicle is nearly stationary, it will detect that you're exiting and effectively "power off" for driving, though the touchscreen will remain active for a short period.
Step 3: Shifting into Drive (or Reverse!)
Now that your Model Y is powered on, it's time to select your gear!
Using the Touchscreen for Shifting
Swipe Up for Drive: On the left side of the touchscreen, you'll see a drive mode strip. To engage Drive, simply swipe your finger upwards on this strip.
Swipe Down for Reverse: To engage Reverse, swipe your finger downwards on the drive mode strip.
Press "P" for Park: To engage Park, tap the "P" icon on the drive mode strip. Your Model Y will automatically go into Park when you open the driver's door, but you can manually engage it as well.
It's a smooth, intuitive motion that quickly becomes second nature.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to set up your phone as a key for Tesla Model Y?
To set up your phone as a key, download the Tesla app, log in, enable Bluetooth and location access for the app, then in the app, select "Set Up Phone Key" while in or near your car and follow the prompts.
How to use the Tesla key card to unlock the Model Y?
To unlock your Model Y with the key card, tap the card against the B-pillar on the driver's side, just below the Autopilot camera, and hold it for a second or two.
How to start the Tesla Model Y with a key card?
After unlocking and entering the car with the key card, place the key card on the card reader behind the cup holders in the center console, and then press the brake pedal within two minutes.
How to shift gears in a Tesla Model Y?
To shift gears, press the brake pedal and then swipe up on the touchscreen's drive mode strip for Drive, or swipe down for Reverse.
How to ensure my phone key works reliably?
Ensure your phone's Bluetooth is always on, the Tesla app has "Always" access to your location, and the app is running in the background.
How to add a new key card or key fob to my Model Y?
On the touchscreen, go to Controls > Locks > Keys > Add Key, then scan your new key card or fob on the wireless phone charger. You'll need to scan an already paired key to confirm.
How to know if my Tesla Model Y is "on" and ready to drive?
The touchscreen will be powered on, and once you press the brake pedal, you'll hear a quiet hum, and any initial indicator lights will turn off, indicating it's ready to shift.
How to troubleshoot if my phone key isn't working?
Check your phone's Bluetooth settings, ensure the Tesla app has necessary permissions (Bluetooth, Location: Always), and that you are logged into the app. Sometimes, simply restarting the app or your phone can resolve minor issues.
How to park the Tesla Model Y?
The Model Y automatically shifts into Park when you open the driver's door or you can manually press the 'P' icon on the touchscreen's drive mode strip.
How to get information on new features after a software update?
Information about new features is displayed on the touchscreen after a software update and can be viewed anytime by choosing the Release Notes tab in the Manual app, or by touching Controls > Software > Release Notes.
