20 Tesla Hidden Features You'll Actually Care About
20 Hidden Tesla Features Every Owner Should Know
Introduction to Hidden Features
- Mike Seuss introduces the video, promising to reveal 20 hidden features of Tesla that are beneficial for both new and existing owners.
Sentry Mode Live Feed
- Users can access a live feed from their Tesla's cameras via the Tesla app when Sentry mode is enabled.
- The app allows users to view different camera angles (front, side, rear) and interact with the car remotely.
- Owners can honk the horn or flash lights through the app, enhancing security measures.
Premium Connectivity Hack
- A workaround exists to access streaming services without paying for Tesla's premium connectivity by using a mobile hotspot.
- By connecting the Tesla to a phone’s Wi-Fi hotspot, users can stream music and use internet browsers while driving.
- This method does not provide live traffic visualization or satellite views on maps.
Accessing More Streaming Platforms
- To unlock additional streaming platforms like HBO Max and ESPN, navigate to "abettertheater.com" in the car's browser.
- The site is optimized for viewing on Teslas and provides access to various games as well as music streaming options.
Emergency Charge Port Unlocking
- In case of a stuck charger, there is an emergency release lever located in the trunk area of the vehicle.
- Pulling this lever will unlock the charge port, allowing removal of a stuck charging cable.
Speed Adjustment While in Autopilot
How to Utilize Hidden Features in Your Tesla
Sending Addresses to Your Tesla
- Users can send addresses directly from their mobile devices to their Tesla, which is useful for navigation before entering the car.
- To send an address, open Apple Maps or Google Maps, select a location, and use the share button to send it directly to your Tesla.
- Addresses received via text messages or emails can also be shared with the Tesla by holding down on the address and selecting "Share to Tesla."
- This feature enhances convenience as many users are unaware of its existence.
Extending Sun Visors
- The sun visors in a Tesla can be extended for better sun blockage; simply pull them out for additional coverage.
Engaging the Parking Brake
- Teslas have a hidden parking brake feature that can be engaged by holding down the parking button.
- To disengage, press the brake pedal and shift into drive, neutral, or reverse. This is particularly useful when parking on inclines.
Quick Navigation Options
- Instead of typing home or work addresses into navigation, users can swipe on the navigation input bar to quickly access these locations.
Viewing Range Instead of Battery Percentage
- Users can toggle between viewing battery percentage and remaining range by tapping on the number displayed instead of the battery icon.
Customizing Quick Controls in the Tesla App
- The Tesla app allows customization of quick controls such as unlocking doors or turning on AC. Hold down settings to rearrange them.
Adding a Widget for Faster Access
- Users can add a Tesla widget to their phone's home screen for quicker access to vehicle controls.
- On iPhones, this involves holding down on the screen, selecting "+" at the top, searching for "Tesla," and choosing a widget size.
Battery Percentage and Quick Controls
Accessing Battery and Controls
- The feature displays the battery percentage and current location, along with four quick controls for convenience.
- Users can quickly access functions like locking doors, turning on AC, unlocking charge ports, opening trunks, or honking the horn.
Climate Control Shortcuts
Turning Off Climate Control
- To quickly turn off climate control, simply hold the climate control button instead of navigating through menus.
Light Settings Access
Quick Light Settings Adjustment
- Push the left stalk forward to access light settings without going into car controls; a popup menu appears for adjustments.
Autopilot Features
Managing Autopilot Prompts
- While in autopilot mode, tapping up on one of the scroll wheels dismisses prompts to hold the steering wheel.
- This method is safer than unintentionally disengaging autopilot by turning the wheel while holding it.
Trunk Height Customization
Setting Trunk Height Limit
- Open the trunk to your desired height and press a button to set that limit; this prevents damage in tight spaces.
- Hold the button until you hear a beep to save this height setting for future openings.
Joe Mode for Passenger Comfort
Reducing Chime Volume
- Joe Mode lowers system chimes' volume to avoid disturbing backseat passengers; it's activated via safety settings.
- Named after a user who requested it, this feature enhances passenger comfort during rides.
Swipe Gestures for Convenience
Using Swipe Gestures Effectively
- Swipe gestures allow users to adjust heat/AC settings more easily by moving fingers left or right instead of pressing buttons.
How to Fix Common Tesla Infotainment Issues
Soft Reboot for Infotainment Screen Problems
- Many Tesla owners experience issues such as Bluetooth connectivity problems or a freezing infotainment screen. A simple solution is to perform a soft reboot of the system.
- If your screen is slow, stuttering, or having connection issues with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, a soft reboot can help refresh the system and improve performance.
- To initiate a soft reboot, hold down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel for about 5 seconds.
- After holding the buttons, the screen will turn black; this indicates that the car is rebooting. The process takes approximately 50 seconds before the screen returns.
- Once rebooted, all settings remain intact. This method is an easy fix and should be tried before contacting Tesla support.
Enhancing Your Tesla Experience with Accessories
- In addition to troubleshooting tips, using aftermarket accessories can enhance your Tesla's style, comfort, performance, and usability.
- Accessories like screen protectors, floor mats, and game controllers are available at accessoriesfortesla.com. These items can significantly improve user experience.