At Tesla, technology doesn't always have to be complex or create a "wow" effect. There are also very basic functions that are nonetheless incredibly helpful and can make your everyday life much easier. We'd like to introduce you to five of them in this article.
Turning off Tesla Model 3
Once you have parked your Tesla, you have the option to control the car via Vehicle —> Security -> Switching off the system saves energy, as most systems shut down immediately. Of course, this isn't strictly necessary; the Tesla will automatically enter this sleep mode after a while. However, completely switching off the Model 3 isn't possible; this would require disconnecting the 12V battery.
Tesla Model 3: How to turn on the steering wheel heating
No one likes cold fingers, especially while driving. A heated steering wheel can therefore be very comfortable, particularly in winter. If your Tesla is equipped with one, you can activate the heating as follows: Tap the fan icon on the central display to access the climate menu. Then select the heating icon and finally the steering wheel icon.
Tesla Model 3: Display mileage
Anyone accustomed to seeing an odometer on the dashboard of other car brands will be surprised by Tesla's. Both the total mileage and the current trip odometer are somewhat hidden. You'll find the former under Vehicle —> Software or if you scroll all the way down in the Tesla app.
The current trip odometer reading can be found under Vehicle —> Trips. There you will also find other counters, such as the kilometers driven since the last charging session.
Tesla: Car Wash Mode
Taking a Tesla through a car wash can quickly become stressful. Windows closed, wipers off, putting the car in neutral, and much more – it's easy to forget something. Luckily, Tesla has a car wash mode.
Once under vehicle —> Service —> With car wash mode activated, the car automatically performs all necessary preparations. Briefly tap the brake and select "Free Roll" to engage neutral. The car wash mode will deactivate as soon as you exceed 16 km/h or press "Exit".
Tesla: Setting the cruise control distance
Adaptive cruise control is now standard equipment in every Tesla vehicle. It automatically maintains the speed and a safe distance to the vehicle in front.
As the driver, you can influence this distance: By pressing the right scroll wheel on the steering wheel to the left or right, you can choose between seven different levels. It's worth noting that this is not an absolute distance in meters, but rather a time interval to the next vehicle.
Source of featured image: Jeffrey Correa via Unsplash
