Tesla MODEL 3 2012 User manual

MODEL 3
OWNER'S MANUAL
Software version: 2022.20
Europe

YOUR OWNER'S MANUAL
For the latest and greatest information that is customized to your vehicle, view the Owner’s Manual on your vehicle’s
touchscreen by touching Controls > Service > Owner's Manual. The information is specific to your vehicle depending on
the features you purchased, vehicle configuration, market region and software version. In contrast, owner information
that is provided by Tesla elsewhere is updated as necessary and may not contain information unique to your vehicle.
RELEASE NOTES
Information about new features is displayed on the touchscreen after a software update, and can be viewed at any time
by touching Controls > Software > Release Notes. If the content in the Owner's Manual on how to use your vehicle
conflicts with information in the Release Notes, the Release Notes take precedence.
ILLUSTRATIONS AND PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
The illustrations provided in this document are for demonstration purposes only. Depending on vehicle options, software
version and market region, the information displayed on the touchscreen in your vehicle may appear slightly dierent.
All specifications and descriptions contained in this document are verified to be accurate at the time of printing.
However, because continuous improvement is a goal at Tesla, we reserve the right to make product modifications at any
time. To communicate any inaccuracies or omissions in this document, please send an email to:
ownersmanualf[email protected]om.
SAFETY INFORMATION
You can find safety information in your Model 3 Owner's Manual on the touchscreen.
For detailed information about your Model 3, go to the Tesla website for your region, log on to your Tesla account, or
sign up to get an account.
If you have any questions or concerns about your Model 3, call Tesla. To find the number for your region, go to
www.tesla.com, select your region at the bottom of the page, then view contact information.
© 2012-2022 TESLA, INC.
All information in this document and all vehicle software is subject to copyright and other intellectual property rights of
Tesla, Inc. and its licensors. This material may not be modified, reproduced or copied, in whole or in part, without the
prior written permission of Tesla, Inc. and its licensors. Additional information is available upon request. Shown here are
trademarks or registered trademarks of Tesla, Inc. in the United States and other countries:

Overview................................................................ 2
Exterior Overview............................................................................2
Interior Overview............................................................................. 3
Touchscreen Overview.................................................................. 4
Opening and Closing.........................................7
Keys.......................................................................................................7
Doors....................................................................................................11
Windows............................................................................................13
Rear Trunk.........................................................................................14
Front Trunk....................................................................................... 16
Interior Storage and Electronics.............................................. 19
Seating and Safety Restraints..................... 23
Front and Rear Seats................................................................... 23
Seat Belts......................................................................................... 27
Child Safety Seats........................................................................ 30
Airbags..............................................................................................43
Driving.................................................................. 47
Driver Profiles................................................................................. 47
Steering Wheel.............................................................................. 49
Mirrors.................................................................................................51
Starting and Powering O.........................................................53
Shifting.............................................................................................. 55
Lights................................................................................................. 57
Car Status........................................................................................ 60
Wipers and Washers....................................................................63
Braking and Stopping................................................................. 64
Traction Control.............................................................................68
Park Assist....................................................................................... 69
Vehicle Hold..................................................................................... 71
Track Mode...................................................................................... 72
Trip Information............................................................................. 74
Getting Maximum Range............................................................75
Rear Facing Camera(s)............................................................... 77
Pedestrian Warning System......................................................78
Towing and Accessories............................................................. 79
Cold Weather Best Practices....................................................87
Autopilot...............................................................91
About Autopilot..............................................................................91
Trac-Aware Cruise Control.................................................... 94
Autosteer......................................................................................... 99
Navigate on Autopilot...............................................................104
Trac Light and Stop Sign Control..................................... 106
Autopark.......................................................................................... 113
Summon........................................................................................... 115
Smart Summon..............................................................................117
Active Safety Features................................. 120
Lane Assist.....................................................................................120
Collision Avoidance Assist........................................................123
Speed Assist.................................................................................. 126
Cabin Camera................................................................................127
Using the Touchscreen..................................128
Controls........................................................................................... 128
Climate Controls.......................................................................... 134
Maps and Navigation..................................................................139
Media................................................................................................145
Entertainment...............................................................................148
Phone and Calendar.................................................................... 151
Voice Commands.........................................................................154
Security Settings..........................................................................156
Dashcam and Sentry Mode......................................................157
HomeLink Universal Transceiver........................................... 160
Connecting to Wi-Fi................................................................... 163
Software Updates........................................................................164
Mobile App.....................................................................................166
Charging.............................................................168
Electric Vehicle Components..................................................168
High Voltage Battery Information.........................................170
Charging Instructions.................................................................172
Maintenance...................................................... 177
Maintenance...................................................................................177
Tire Care and Maintenance...................................................... 179
Cleaning.......................................................................................... 185
Wiper Blades and Washer Jets.............................................. 188
Fluid Reservoirs............................................................................189
Jacking and Lifting...................................................................... 191
Parts and Accessories................................................................192
Specifications...................................................194
Identification Labels...................................................................194
Vehicle Loading............................................................................195
Dimensions.....................................................................................197
Subsystems....................................................................................199
Wheels and Tires........................................................................ 202
Roadside Assistance.................................... 205
Contacting Tesla Roadside Assistance.............................. 205
Emergency Call........................................................................... 207
Instructions for Transporters................................................. 208
Consumer Information.................................. 212
About this Owner Information................................................212
Disclaimers..................................................................................... 213
Reporting Safety Defects.........................................................214
Radio Regulatory Compliance................................................215
Troubleshooting Alerts..............................................................219
Index................................................................... 266
Contents

1. Exterior lights (Lights on page 57)
2. Autopilot camera (About Autopilot on page 91)
3. Front door handle (Using Exterior Door Handles on page 11)
4. Key card sensor (Keys on page 7), Autopilot camera (About Autopilot on page 91)
5. Rear door handle (Using Exterior Door Handles on page 11)
6. Charge port (Charging Instructions on page 172)
7. Autopilot cameras (About Autopilot on page 91)
8. Exterior mirrors (Mirrors on page 51)
9. Radar sensor, if equipped (hidden from view) (About Autopilot on page 91)
10. Hood/front trunk (Front Trunk on page 16)
11. Tow eye cover (Instructions for Transporters on page 208)
12. Wheels and tires (Wheels and Tires on page 202)
13. Rear view camera (Rear Facing Camera(s) on page 77)
14. Rear trunk (Rear Trunk on page 14)
Exterior Overview
2 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual

NOTE: On RHD (Right Hand Drive) vehicles, the controls illustrated above are arranged similarly, but are mirrored on
the right side of the vehicle.
1. Door open button (Opening Doors from the Interior on page 11)
2. Turn signal stalk (High Beam Headlights on page 58), Turn Signals on page 58, and Windshield Washers on
page 63)
3. Horn (Horn on page 49)
4. Drive stalk (How to Shift on page 55, Trac-Aware Cruise Control on page 94, Autosteer on page 99)
5. Touchscreen (Touchscreen Overview on page 4)
6. Driver dome light (Lights on page 57)
7. Cabin camera (Cabin Camera on page 127)
8. Hazard warning flashers (Hazard Warning Flashers on page 59)
9. Passenger dome light (Lights on page 57)
10. Climate control vent (see Climate Controls on page 134)
11. Power window switches (Windows on page 13)
12. Manual door release (Opening Doors from the Interior on page 11)
13. Left scroll button (Scroll Buttons on page 49)
14. Brake pedal (Braking and Stopping on page 64)
15. Accelerator pedal (Regenerative Braking on page 65)
16. Right scroll button (Scroll Buttons on page 49)
17. Center console (Interior Storage and Electronics on page 19)
18. Glovebox (Glovebox on page 19)
Interior Overview
3Overview

WARNING: Always pay attention to road and trac conditions when driving. To minimize driver distraction and
ensure the safety of vehicle occupants as well as other road users, avoid using the touchscreen to adjust
settings while the vehicle is in motion.
Use the touchscreen to control many features that, in traditional cars, are controlled using physical buttons (for
example, adjusting the cabin heating and air conditioning, headlights, etc.). You also use the touchscreen to control
media, navigate, use entertainment features, and customize Model 3 to suit your preferences. For hands-free access
to common touchscreen controls, use voice commands (see Voice Commands on page 154). The main component
of the touchscreen is the map area. Other main components are shown here:
NOTE: Illustrations are provided to improve conceptual understanding only. Depending on vehicle options, software
version, market region and regional and language settings, the details displayed on the screen will dier.
1. Status bar: This area on the top of the touchscreen displays the time of day, the outside temperature, and the
following icons:
Touch to contact emergency responders and receive public safety information in the event of a
serious accident or injury (see Emergency Call on page 207).
Touch to lock/unlock all doors and trunks.
Touchscreen Overview
4 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual

Displays on the touchscreen status bar only when Model 3 detects a programmed HomeLink
within range, and the touchscreen is not already displaying the HomeLink screen or popup. See
HomeLink Universal Transceiver on page 160.
Displays on the touchscreen status bar only when Model 3 is parked. Add, configure (including
Valet Mode and Use Easy Entry), or quickly switch driver profiles. Driver profiles can also be
accessed from the top of any Controls screen. See Driver Profiles on page 47.
Available when Model 3 is parked, touch to manually turn Sentry Mode on or o. To automatically
turn Sentry Mode on every time you leave your vehicle, enable the setting from Controls > Safety
> Sentry Mode.
NOTE: For some vehicles manufactured after approximately November 1, 2021, the center console
USB ports may only support charging devices. Use the USB port inside the glove box for all other
functions.
Displays when Model 3 is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Displays when Model 3 cellular connectivity is very low or unavailable. Touch this icon for quick
access to Wi-Fi settings.
Status of the front passenger airbag (see Airbags on page 43).
2. Navigation: Change the orientation of the map, find or navigate to a destination, and change navigation settings
(see Maps and Navigation on page 139).
3. Car status: This area dynamically displays the current status of Model 3 as you drive, park, open doors, turn lights
on, etc. Monitor this area when driving as it displays important information such as driving speed and warning
messages (see Car Status on page 60). When the car is in Park, you can open the trunks or charge port door.
When full self-driving is enabled (if equipped), the car status area displays visualizations of the road and your
vehicle's surroundings. You can expand/condense the visualization by dragging the car status area from side to
side. Expanding the visualization displays more details about the roadway and its surroundings, including road
markings, stop lights, and objects (such as trash cans and poles).
4. Controls: Control various features and adjust settings to customize your Model 3 (see Controls on page 128).
5. Climate controls (driver): Use the left and right arrows to decrease/increase cabin temperature. Touch Split on
the popup to display separate controls for the driver and passenger. Touch the temperature icon to customize
climate control settings (see Climate Controls on page 134). The passenger climate controls display when
temperature controls have been Split to provide separate controls for the driver and passenger.
6. My Apps: For one-touch access to frequently used apps and controls, you can choose what displays here. See
Customizing My Apps on page 6.
7. App Launcher: Touch the app launcher to open the app tray. Then touch any app to open it. The app you choose
displays on top of the map. To close an app, drag it downward.
8. Recent App(s): Displays the most recently used app(s). The number of recent apps displayed here depends on
how many apps have been added to My Apps. If you add the maximum number of apps to My Apps, only the
most recent app displays.
9. Volume Control: Controls the volume of media player and phone calls (see Volume Controls on page 145). The
volume of navigation instructions is controlled separately (see Maps and Navigation on page 139).
Touchscreen Overview
5Overview

Popup messages appear at the bottom of the touchscreen. For example, a seat belt reminder appears if a seat belt is
unfastened in an occupied seat, an alert appears to notify you of an incoming phone call, a text message appears
(when applicable), and voice commands appear when in use. If applicable, touch options from these popup
messages (for example, accept/decline a phone call, choose an option from the headlight menu, etc.). To dismiss a
popup message, swipe it downward.
Customizing My Apps
For one-touch access to commonly used apps and controls, you can customize what displays in the My Apps area on
the touchscreen's bottom bar:
1. Enter customization mode by touching and holding any app or control in the My Apps area. If this area is empty,
touch the App Launcher.
2. Simply drag any app or control from the app tray onto the My Apps area in the bottom bar.
NOTE: Seat heaters selected from the app tray appear next to the temperature, instead of in the My Apps area.
NOTE: Controls (for example, wipers, defrosters and seat heaters) appear in the app tray only when you enter
customization mode by touching and holding an app.
NOTE: When you've added the maximum number of apps or controls to My Apps, adding an additional app removes
the rightmost app.
NOTE: Remove an app or control from the My Apps area by touching and holding, then touching its associated "X".
Touchscreen Overview
6 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual

Three Types of Keys
Model 3 supports three types of keys:
• Phone key - You can set up your personal phone as a
"phone key" that communicates with Model 3 using
Bluetooth. A phone key supports automatic locking
and unlocking.
• Key card - Tesla provides a key card that
communicates with Model 3 using short range radio-
frequency identification (RFID) signals. The key card
is used to "authenticate" phone keys to work with
Model 3 and to add or remove other key cards, phone
keys, or key fobs. Unlike the phone key and key fob,
the key card does not support automatic locking and
unlocking. In situations where your phone key has a
dead battery, or is lost or stolen, use your key card to
unlock, drive, and lock Model 3.
• Key fob - The key fob (if equipped) allows you to
press buttons to open the front and rear trunks, and
unlock, lock, and drive Model 3. The key fob also
supports automatic locking and unlocking, if available
in your region (see Passive Locking and Unlocking on
page 9) and can be used as a backup to your
phone key.
Model 3 supports a total of 19 keys, which can include
phone keys, key cards, and up to four key fobs.
CAUTION: Remember to bring a key with you
when you drive. Although you can drive Model 3
away from its key, you will be unable to power it
back on after it powers o.
Phone Key
Using your phone as a key is a convenient way to access
your Model 3. As you approach, your phone's Bluetooth
signal is detected and doors unlock when you press a
door handle. Likewise, when you exit and walk away with
the phone key, doors automatically lock (provided the
Walk-Away Door Lock feature is turned on; see Walk-
Away Door Lock on page 12).
Before you can use a phone to access Model 3, follow
these steps to authenticate it:
1. Download the Tesla mobile app to your phone.
2. Log into the Tesla mobile app using your Tesla
account username and password.
NOTE: You must remain logged in to your Tesla
account to use your phone to access Model 3.
NOTE: If multiple vehicles are linked to your Tesla
account, you must ensure that the vehicle you want
the mobile app to access is currently selected on the
mobile app.
3. Ensure:
◦ Your phone's general Bluetooth settings are
enabled.
◦ Bluetooth is enabled within your phone's settings
for the Tesla mobile app. For example, on your
phone, navigate to Settings, choose the Tesla
mobile app, and ensure the Bluetooth setting is
turned on.
◦ Access to your location is enabled. Open the Tesla
mobile app in your phone's settings and select
Location > Always. For the best experience, keep
the mobile app running in the background.
◦ Allow Mobile Access is enabled on the vehicle
touchscreen (Controls > Safety > Allow Mobile
Access).
NOTE: Model 3 communicates with your phone using
Bluetooth. Keep in mind that your phone must have
enough battery power to run Bluetooth and that
many phones disable Bluetooth when the battery is
low.
4. While sitting inside the vehicle with a key card handy,
open the Tesla mobile app and touch Set Up Phone
Key on the main screen, or navigate to Security > Set
Up Phone Key. Follow the prompts on the mobile app
and vehicle touchscreen to set up your phone key.
To view a list of keys that can currently access Model 3,
or to remove a phone key, touch Controls > Locks (see
Managing Keys on page 10).
Model 3 can connect to three phone keys
simultaneously. Therefore, if more than three phone keys
are detected and you want to authenticate or pair a
dierent phone, move the other connected phone key(s)
out of range or turn o its Bluetooth setting.
Once a phone has been authenticated, it no longer
requires an internet connection to be used as a phone
key for Model 3. However, to use the phone hands-free,
access your phone's contacts, play media from it, etc.,
you must also pair it and connect it as a Bluetooth
device (see Pairing a Bluetooth Phone on page 151).
Key Card
Tesla provides you with two Model 3 key cards, designed
to fit in your wallet.
To use a key card to unlock or lock Model 3, position the
card as shown and tap it against the card reader located
just below the Autopilot camera on the driver's side
door pillar. When Model 3 detects the key card, the
exterior lights flash, the mirrors unfold or fold (if Fold
Mirrors is on), the horn sounds (if Lock Confirmation
Sound is on), and the doors unlock or lock.
NOTE: You may need to physically touch the center
console or driver's side door pillar with the key card, and
you may need to hold it against the transmitter for one
or two seconds.
Keys
7Opening and Closing

Once inside, power up Model 3 by pressing the brake
pedal within two minutes of scanning the key card (see
Starting and Powering O on page 53). If you wait
longer than two minutes, you must re-authenticate by
placing the key card near the card reader located behind
the cup holders on the center console. When your key
card is detected, your two minute authentication period
restarts.
NOTE: If enabled, Walk-Away Door Lock (see Walk-
Away Door Lock on page 12) operates only when you
walk away using a phone key or passive key fob. When
you walk away carrying your key card, Model 3 does not
automatically unlock/lock.
CAUTION: Always carry your key card with you in
your purse or wallet to use as a backup in case
your authenticated phone has a dead battery, or is
lost or stolen.
Key Fob
If you have purchased the key fob accessory, you can
quickly familiarize yourself with this key by thinking of it
as a miniature version of Model 3, with the Tesla badge
representing the front. The key has three buttons that
feel like softer areas on the surface.
1. Front trunk - Double-click to unlatch the front trunk.
2. Lock/Unlock All - Single-click to lock doors and
trunks (all doors and trunks must be closed). Double-
click to unlock doors and trunks.
3. Rear trunk - Double-click to unlatch the rear trunk.
Hold down for one to two seconds to open the
charge port door.
Once inside, power up Model 3 by pressing the brake
pedal within two minutes of pressing the unlock button
on the key fob (see Starting and Powering O on page
53). If you wait longer than two minutes, you must
press the unlock button again, or place the key fob near
the card reader located behind the cup holders on the
center console. When your key fob is detected, the two
minute authentication period restarts.
When approaching or leaving Model 3 carrying the key
fob, you do not need to point the key fob at Model 3 as
you press a button, but you must be within operating
range.
Radio equipment on a similar frequency can aect the
key. If this happens, move the key at least 30 cm away
from other electronic devices (phones, laptops, etc.).
In the event that the key fob's battery is dead, you can
still use it to drive the vehicle by scanning the key fob on
the card reader located on the driver's side door pillar
(like the key card).
Keys
8 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual

Instructions for changing the battery are provided in
Replacing the Key Fob Battery on page 9.
NOTE: You can use the same key fob with multiple
Model 3 vehicles provided you authenticate it (see
Managing Keys on page 10). However, key fob works
with only one Model 3 at a time. Therefore, to use a key
fob for a dierent Model 3, touch its flat side against the
card reader on the driver's side door pillar.
NOTE: Model 3 supports up to four dierent key fobs.
CAUTION: Protect the key from impact, high
temperatures, and damage from liquids. Avoid
contact with solvents, waxes, and abrasive
cleaners.
Passive Locking and Unlocking
Due to market region or vehicle configuration, passive
locking and unlocking may not be available for your
vehicle.
NOTE: Only key fobs with the TESLA logo printed on the
flat side support the passive locking and unlocking
feature. Key fobs with the MODEL 3 logo printed on the
flat side cannot passively lock and unlock Model 3.
Locking and unlocking Model 3 with your key fob is
conveniently hands-free. Although you must be carrying
a paired key fob, there is no need to use it. Model 3 has
sensors around the vehicle that can recognize the
presence of a key fob within a range of approximately
two meters. Therefore, you can keep your key fob in
your pocket or purse and simply pull on the door handle
to unlock. When carrying your key fob with you, you can
also open the trunk without having to use the key by
pressing the rear trunk's exterior door handle. If Walk-
Away Door Lock is enabled, Model 3 automatically locks
when you exit and the key fob is no longer in range (see
Walk-Away Door Lock on page 12). Passive locking
and unlocking is automatically enabled when you pair
your key fob to Model 3.
Although you can use the same key fob with multiple
vehicles, it can only be paired to one vehicle at a time.
To activate a paired key fob to a dierent vehicle, touch
the flat side onto the driver's side door pillar and click
any button on the key fob to confirm.
NOTE: For increased security, passive locking and
unlocking disables after being stationary for five minutes
while within vehicle range when the vehicle is not in use
(for example, you are standing outside your vehicle). In
this situation, you must shake or press a button on the
key fob to re-enable passive locking and unlocking.
Replacing the Key Fob Battery
Under normal use, the accessory key fob has a battery
that lasts for up to one year, depending on key fob
version and selected vehicle settings. When the battery
is low, a message displays on the touchscreen.
To replace the key fob battery:
1. With the key fob placed button side down on a soft
surface, release the bottom cover, using a small flat-
bladed tool.
2. Remove the battery by lifting it away from the
retaining clips.
3. While avoiding touching the battery's flat surfaces,
insert the new battery (type CR2032 ) with the ‘+’
side facing up.
NOTE: Wipe the battery clean before fitting and
avoid touching the battery's flat surfaces. Finger
marks on the flat surfaces of the battery can reduce
battery life.
NOTE: CR2032 batteries can be purchased from any
retailer that sells batteries.
4. Holding the bottom cover at an angle, align the tabs
on the cover with the corresponding slots on the key
fob, then press the cover firmly onto the key fob until
it snaps into place.
Keys
9Opening and Closing

5. Test that the key fob works by unlocking and locking
Model 3.
WARNING: Key fob batteries contain a chemical
burn hazard and should not be ingested. The key
fob contains a coin cell battery. If the coin cell
battery is swallowed, it can cause severe internal
burns within two hours and can lead to death.
Keep new and used batteries away from children. If
the battery compartment does not close securely,
stop using the product and keep it away from
children. If you think batteries might have been
swallowed or placed inside any part of the body,
seek immediate medical attention.
Managing Keys
To display a list of all keys (phone keys, key cards, and
key fobs) that can access your Model 3, touch Controls >
Locks. An icon displays next to each key to indicate
whether the key is a phone key, key card, or key fob. Use
this list to manage keys that have access to your Model
3. To add or delete keys, see Adding and Removing Keys
on page 10.
Model 3 supports up to 19 keys. When you reach this
limit, you must delete a key before adding a new one.
NOTE: You can use the same key for more than one
Model 3. This prevents you from having to deal with
multiple keys when you switch vehicles. If you customize
the name of an authenticated key card or key fob on one
Model 3 (by touching the pencil icon), any other Model 3
to which the key card or key fob is authenticated also
displays the changed name.
Adding and Removing Keys
To add a new key card or key fob:
NOTE: When adding a key fob, ensure it is at room
temperature. Pairing a key fob that is very cold can be
unsuccessful.
1. On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Locks then
touch +in the Keys section.
2. Scan your new key card or key fob on the card reader
located behind the cup holders on the top of the
center console. After the new key card or key fob is
recognized, remove it from the card reader.
3. Scan a key card or key fob that has already been
paired to the vehicle to confirm new key pairing.
4. When complete, the key list includes the new key.
Touch the associated pencil icon to customize the
name of the key.
To add a new phone key, see Phone Key on page 7.
Removing a key:
When you no longer want a key to access Model 3 (for
example, you lost your phone or key card, etc.), follow
these steps to remove it.
1. On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Locks.
2. In the key list, find the key that you would like to
delete and touch its associated trash icon.
3. When prompted, scan an authenticated key card or
key fob on the card reader to confirm the deletion.
When complete, the key list no longer includes the
deleted key.
NOTE: Model 3 requires at least one authenticated key
card or key fob at all times. If only one key card remains
on the key list, you cannot delete it.
Keys
10 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual

Using Exterior Door Handles
Use your thumb to push the wide part of the door
handle. The handle pivots toward you, and you can open
the door by pulling the handle or pulling the edge of the
door.
The handle retracts automatically.
When a door or trunk is open, the
touchscreen displays the Door Open
indicator light.
You can specify that you want to unlock only the driver's
door when you shift into Park by turning on Controls >
Locks > Driver Door Unlock Mode. If o, all doors unlock
when you shift into Park.
NOTE: See Cold Weather Best Practices on page 87 to
ensure door handles function properly in cold weather.
WARNING: While using the door handle, take care
to avoid allowing fingers, jewelry, acrylic nails, etc.
from being pinched by the door or door handle
mechanism. Failure to do so may result in damage
or injury.
Opening Doors from the Interior
Model 3 doors are electrically powered. To open a door
while sitting inside, press the button located at the top
of the interior door handle and push the door open.
NOTE: To prevent children from opening the rear doors,
turn on child locks (see Child Locks on page 12).
To open a front door in the unlikely situation when
Model 3 has no power, pull up the manual door release
located in front of the window switches.
NOTE: Only the front doors are equipped with a manual
door release.
CAUTION: Manual door releases are designed to
be used only in situations when Model 3 has no
power. When Model 3 has power, use the button
located at the top of the interior door handle.
Doors
11Opening and Closing

Interior Locking and Unlocking
While sitting inside Model 3, you can lock and unlock all
doors and trunks by touching the lock icon on the
touchscreen.
The icon changes to indicate whether
doors are locked or unlocked.
You can also unlock the doors by pressing the Park
button on the end of the drive stalk a second time.
Pressing this button once engages Park and pressing it
again unlocks the doors.
Driver Door Unlock Mode
Enabling Controls > Locks > Driver Door Unlock Mode
only unlocks the driver door when you first unlock Model
3.
Walk-Away Door Lock
Doors and trunks can automatically lock when you walk
away carrying your phone key or paired key fob (if
ordered after approximately October 1, 2019). To turn
this feature on or o, touch Controls > Locks > Walk-
Away Door Lock.
When the doors lock, the exterior lights flash once and
the mirrors fold (if Fold Mirrors is on). To also hear a
confirmation sound when Model 3 locks, touch Controls
> Locks > Lock Confirmation Sound.
Model 3 does not automatically lock if:
• You check the Exclude Home checkbox and Model 3
is parked at the location you have designated as
Home. For details on how to designate a location as
Home, see Home, Work, and Favorite Destinations on
page 141.
• A phone key or paired key fob is detected inside
Model 3.
• A door or trunk is not fully closed.
• The phone key's Bluetooth setting is turned o.
• Key fob or phone key remains within range for five
minutes after all doors have been closed.
NOTE: If Model 3 detects an authenticated key for five
minutes after you exit the vehicle and close all doors,
Walk-Away Lock disables and doors do not lock when
you walk away. In this case, you must manually lock your
vehicle until after your next drive.
Drive Away Locking
Model 3 automatically locks all doors (including the
trunks) when your driving speed exceeds 8 km/h.
Child Locks
Model 3 has child locks on the rear doors to prevent
them from being opened using the interior release
buttons. On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Locks >
Child Lock. You can choose Both to engage the child
lock on both rear doors, or you can choose Left or Right
to engage it on just a specific door.
WARNING: It is recommended that you turn on
child locks when children are seated in the rear
seats.
Unlock on Park
When you stop Model 3 and engage Park, you can
choose to unlock all doors. To turn this feature on or o,
touch Controls > Locks > Unlock on Park.
NOTE: If set to OFF, you can unlock all doors by
pressing the Park button a second time after engaging
Park.
Doors
12 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual

Opening and Closing
Press down on a switch to lower the associated window.
Window switches operate at two levels:
• To lower a window fully, press the switch all the way
down and immediately release.
• To lower a window partially, press the switch gently
and release when the window is where you want it.
Similarly, pull a switch to raise the associated window:
• To raise a window fully, pull the switch all the way up
and immediately release.
• To raise a window partially, pull the switch gently and
release when the window is where you want it.
If a window is left open unintentionally, Model 3 can
send a notification to the mobile app (touch Controls >
Locks > Car Left Open Notification, then choose Doors
& Windows).
You can also enable Close Windows on Lock by
touching Controls > Locks > Close Windows on Lock.
When enabled, your vehicle automatically closes the
windows when Model 3 locks.
NOTE: See Cold Weather Best Practices on page 87
for information on preparing windows for cold weather.
CAUTION: To avoid damage, windows
automatically lower slightly when you open or
close a door. If you manually raise a window when
the door is open, ensure it is slightly lowered
before closing the door.
WARNING: Before closing a window, it is the
driver’s responsibility to ensure that all occupants,
especially children, do not have any body parts
extended through the window’s opening. Failure to
do so can cause serious injury.
Locking Rear Windows
To prevent passengers from using the rear window
switches, touch Controls > Locks > Window Lock. To
unlock the rear windows, touch Window Lock again.
WARNING: To ensure safety, it is recommended
that you lock the rear window switches whenever
children are seated in the rear seats.
WARNING: Never leave children unattended in
Model 3.
Calibrating Windows
In the unlikely event that a window behaves
unexpectedly (touches the bright molding, fails to open
or close properly, goes down more than normal when
the door opens, etc.), you can calibrate it to potentially
fix the issue.
To calibrate a window:
1. Close the door with the aected window.
2. Sit in the driver's seat and close the driver door.
3. Using the window's switch on the driver's door, raise
the aected window until it stalls.
4. Using the window's switch on the driver's door, lower
the aected window until it stalls.
5. Repeat step 3 and raise the aected window until it
stalls.
The window should now be calibrated. If the issue
continues after attempting the calibration procedure a
couple times, contact Tesla.
Windows
13Opening and Closing

Opening
To open the rear trunk, ensure Model 3 is in Park, then
do one of the following:
• Touch the associated Open button on the
touchscreen.
• Double-click the rear trunk button on the key fob.
• Touch the rear trunk button on the mobile app.
• Press the switch located under the rear trunk's
exterior handle (a valid key must be detected).
Model 3 must be unlocked or detect a key before you
can use the switch to open the rear trunk.
When a door or trunk is open, the
touchscreen displays the Door Open
indicator light. The image of your Model 3
on the touchscreen also displays the open
trunk.
You can stop a powered trunk (if equipped) while it is
moving by single-clicking the rear trunk button on the
key fob accessory. Then, when you double-click the rear
trunk button, it moves again, but in the opposite
direction (provided it was not almost entirely open or
closed when you stopped it). For example, if you single-
click to stop the powered trunk while it is opening, when
you double-click, it closes.
NOTE: In emergency situations, you can override the
open or close command for the powered trunk (if
equipped) by grabbing hold and stopping it.
WARNING: Before opening or closing the powered
trunk (if equipped), it is important to check that
the surrounding area is free of obstacles (people
and objects). You must proactively monitor the
trunk to ensure that it does not come into contact
with a person or object. Failure to do so may result
in damage or serious injury.
To open the rear trunk from inside the vehicle in the
unlikely situation that Model 3 has no power, see Interior
Emergency Trunk Release on page 15.
Closing
To close the powered trunk (if equipped), do one of the
following:
• Touch the associated Close button on the
touchscreen.
• Press the switch located by the rear trunk's exterior
handle.
• Double-click the rear trunk button on the key fob.
If the powered trunk senses an obstruction when
closing, it stops moving and sounds two chimes.
Remove the obstruction and try closing it again.
WARNING: Before driving, ensure that the trunk is
securely latched in the fully-closed position by
lifting up on the bottom edge and confirming
there is no movement.
Adjusting Opening Height of
Powered Trunk
You can adjust the opening height of the powered trunk
(if equipped) to make it easier to reach or to avoid low-
hanging ceilings or objects (for example, a garage door
or light):
1. Open the trunk, then manually lower or raise it to the
desired opening height.
2. Press and hold the button on the underside of the
trunk for three seconds until you hear a confirmation
chime.
3. Confirm that you have set it to the desired height by
closing the powered trunk, then reopening it.
Accessing the Cargo Area
To access the cargo area inside the rear trunk, pull up
the strap at the rear of the cargo cover. You can then
fold the cargo cover forward or remove it from Model 3.
Rear Trunk
14 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual

Secure all cargo before moving Model 3, and place
heavy cargo in the lower trunk compartment.
Distribute cargo weight between the front and rear
trunks.
CAUTION: Never load more than 130 lbs (60 kg) in
the upper compartment of the rear trunk or more
than 285 lbs (130 kg) in the lower compartment.
Doing so can cause damage.
Interior Emergency Trunk Release
An illuminated mechanical release located inside the
rear trunk allows you to open the rear trunk from the
inside if Model 3 has no electrical power. This mechanical
release also allows a person locked inside to get out.
1. Firmly push the illuminated button in the direction of
the arrow to release the latch.
2. Push the rear trunk open.
NOTE: The button glows for several hours after a brief
exposure to ambient light.
WARNING: Do not allow children to play inside the
trunk or become locked inside. An unrestrained
child could suer serious injury or death in a crash.
A child could suer heat exhaustion if trapped in
the vehicle, especially without climate control on.
Rear Trunk
15Opening and Closing

Opening
To open the front trunk, ensure Model 3 is in Park, and
then do one of the following before pulling the hood
open:
• Touch the associated Open icon on the touchscreen.
• Double-click the front trunk button on the key fob.
• Touch the front trunk button in the mobile app.
When a door or trunk is open, the
touchscreen displays the Door Open
indicator light. The image of your Model 3
on the touchscreen also displays the open
front trunk.
WARNING: Before opening or closing the hood, it
is important to check that the area around the
hood is free of obstacles (people and objects).
Failure to do so may result in damage or serious
injury.
The cargo weight should be distributed between the
front and rear trunks.
CAUTION: Never load more than 55 lbs (25 kg) in
the front trunk. Doing so can cause damage.
Closing
The Model 3 hood is not heavy enough to latch under its
own weight and applying pressure on the front edge or
center of the hood can cause damage.
To properly close the hood:
1. Lower the hood until the striker touches the latches.
2. Place both hands on the front of the hood in the
areas shown (in green), then press down firmly to
engage the latches.
3. Carefully try to lift the front edge of the hood to
ensure that it is fully closed.
CAUTION: To prevent damage:
• Apply pressure only to the green areas shown.
Applying pressure to the red areas can cause
damage.
• Do not close the hood with one hand. Doing so
applies concentrated force in one area and can
result in a dent or crease.
• Do not apply pressure to the front edge of the
hood. Doing so can crease the edge.
• Do not slam or drop the hood.
• To avoid scratches, don't have anything in your
hands (keys). Jewelry can also cause scratches.
WARNING: Before driving, you must ensure that
the hood is securely latched in the fully closed
position by carefully trying to lift the front edge of
the hood upward and confirming there is no
movement.
The front trunk locks when:
• You lock Model 3 using the touchscreen, key or
mobile app.
• You leave Model 3 carrying your key (if Walk-Away
Door Lock on page 12 is turned on).
• Valet mode is active (see Valet Mode on page 47).
Interior Emergency Release
An illuminated interior release button inside the front
trunk allows a person locked inside to get out.
Front Trunk
16 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual

Press the interior release button to open the front trunk,
then push up on the hood.
NOTE: The interior release button glows following a brief
exposure to ambient light.
WARNING: People should never climb inside the
front trunk. Never shut the front trunk when a
person is inside.
WARNING: Care should be taken to ensure that
objects inside the front trunk do not bump against
the release button, causing the hood to
accidentally open.
Opening Hood with No Power
In the unlikely event that Model 3 has no low voltage
power, you will be unable to open the front trunk using
the touchscreen, key fob, or mobile app. To open the
front trunk in this situation:
NOTE: The following steps do not open the front trunk if
Model 3 is locked and has low voltage power.
1. Locate an external low voltage power supply (such as
a portable jump starter).
2. Release the tow eye cover by pressing firmly on the
top right perimeter of the cover until it pivots inward,
then gently pulling the raised section toward you.
NOTE: The tow eye cover is connected to the
vehicle's black negative (-) terminal.
3. Pull the two wires out of the tow eye opening to
expose both terminals.
4. Connect the low voltage power supply's red positive
(+) cable to the red positive (+) terminal.
5. Connect the low voltage power supply's black
negative (-) cable to the black negative (-) terminal.
Front Trunk
17Opening and Closing

NOTE: Applying external low voltage power to these
terminals only releases the hood latches. You cannot
charge the low voltage battery using these terminals.
6. Turn on the external power supply (refer to the
manufacturer’s instructions). The hood latches are
immediately released and you can now open the
hood to access the front trunk area.
7. Disconnect both cables, beginning with the black
negative (-) cable.
8. If pulling the vehicle onto a flatbed truck, do not
replace the tow eye cover yet. If necessary, install the
tow eye cover by inserting the wires into the tow eye
opening and aligning the tow eye cover into position
and snapping it into place.
Front Trunk
18 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual