The Ultimate Guide to Driving a Tesla

Discover the essentials of operating a modern EV for the first time

1. Use the key card, fob, or app to access and start the vehicle; 2. Regenerative braking slows the car down automatically; 3. Shift gears using the stick; 4. Adjust settings via the control screen

Unlock your Tesla using the key card, key fob, or Tesla app. Each Tesla comes with three keys: a key card, a separate key fob (available for purchase), and the Tesla app on your phone. Any of these options will unlock your car.

• Many Tesla owners keep the key card in their wallets.
• The key fob, priced at $150, functions like a typical remote key, allowing you to activate alarms, unlock the car, start it remotely, etc.

Initiate the car by pressing the brake pedal. Teslas are fully electric, eliminating the need for a traditional ignition system. Simply press the brake pedal, and the vehicle will start automatically.

• The car operates silently, but the screen indicates its status.
• If the Tesla has customized profiles, they will appear on the screen upon entry.

Shift gears using the right stalk. Familiarize yourself with the different gear settings using the stalk on the right side of the steering wheel. Here's how:

• Reverse: Push the stalk all the way up and release it.
• Neutral: Briefly push up if in drive, or down if in reverse.
• Drive: Push all the way down and release.
• Park: Press the button at the end of the stalk.

Operate the Tesla normally, but be aware of the 'creep' setting. While driving feels standard, note that Teslas do not automatically idle forward when the brake is released. Adjust the 'creep' setting on the touchscreen for this functionality.

• To change the 'creep' setting, go to 'controls' then 'pedals & steering' on the touchscreen and enable it under 'stopping mode.'
• Many Tesla drivers prefer to keep 'creep' off for convenience, but it may require adjustment if you're new to Tesla vehicles.

Utilize regenerative braking by releasing the accelerator slowly. Teslas employ regenerative brakes that harness the car's momentum to recharge the battery while driving. Gradually releasing the accelerator causes the vehicle to decelerate gently, a feature that can be customized or disabled by accessing the controls on the touchscreen.

• Many Tesla drivers opt for one-pedal driving, using the accelerator for both acceleration and braking, reserving the brake pedal for emergencies.

Activate self-driving and autosteering using your manual. Tesla offers various autopilot features like autosteering, auto lane changing, and full self-driving. Consult your manual for instructions on activating these modes through the vehicle's controls, typically found in the 'driving & steering' menu.

• Autosteering assists in maintaining lane position, while auto lane change facilitates safe lane changes when indicating.
• Full self-driving includes automated tasks like turning, accelerating, and parking, while autopilot primarily aids in highway driving.

Power down the car using the stalk and its end button. Shift to park and press the button at the end of the stalk to shut down the vehicle. In some models like the Model Y, it may power off automatically upon exiting with the key fob or card.

• The car also shuts off after 30 minutes in park, even if occupied.

Open the door using the button on the side panel's hand grip. Locate the button on the upper portion of the hand grip and press it while applying gentle pressure to the door to open it.

Adjust seats, mirrors, and steering using the control screen. Access profile settings on the main screen, create a new profile, and make adjustments using the sliders and buttons. Save your changes to apply them.

Activate cruise control with a double tap on the stalk. Quickly tap the stalk down twice to set cruise control on the highway. Increase or decrease speed by moving the stalk accordingly. Cruise control disengages when the brake pedal is pressed.

Open the trunk using the switch under the handle. Press the switch under the rear trunk handle while holding the key card or fob to unlock the trunk. Alternatively, use the trunk button on the fob or the touchscreen/app.

Perform a power cycle if encountering issues or errors. To reboot, shift to park, access 'controls' then 'safety' on the touchscreen, and select 'power off.' Wait for 2 minutes, then press the brake to restart the car. This process resolves software glitches and ensures system functionality.