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Tesla Model Y (2022 year). Manual in english - page 2

Child Safety Seats

Seating Larger Children

1. Place the child safety seat in Model Y, and fully

extend the seat belt. Route and buckle the seat belt

in accordance with the child safety seat

If a child is too large to fit into a child safety seat, but

manufacturer’s instructions.

too small to safely fit into the standard seat belts, use a

booster seat appropriate for the child’s age and size.

Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to

secure the booster seat.

Installing Child Safety Seats

There are two general methods used to install child

safety seats:

• Seat belt retained - these seats are secured using the

vehicle’s seat belts.

• LATCH retained - these seats attach to anchor bars

built into the second row seats.

Check the child safety seat manufacturer’s instructions

and the table provided in this document to determine

which installation method to use. Some child safety

seats can be installed using either method. Always

follow the child safety seat manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Allow the seat belt to retract, and remove all slack in

the seat belt while firmly pushing the child safety

Installing Seat Belt Retained Child

seat into the Model Y seat.

Seats

3. If the seat belt retained child safety seat has an upper

tether, attach it to the back of the seat (see Attaching

First, make sure that the child safety seat is appropriate

Upper Tether Straps on page 36).

for the weight, height, and age of the child.

Avoid dressing the child in bulky clothing and do not

Installing LATCH (ISOFIX) Child

place any objects between the child and the restraint

system.

Seats

Adjust harnesses for every child, every trip.

Lower LATCH anchors are provided in the second row

outboard seats. The anchors are located between the

To securely hold child safety seats, all passenger seating

seat's back rest and rear cushion. The exact location of

positions are equipped with an automatic locking

each anchor is identified by a child safety seat

retractor (ALR) that, by pulling the seat belt beyond the

identification button, illustrated below. The button is

length needed for a typical adult occupant, locks the

located on the seat, near the associated anchor.

belt into place until the seat belt is unbuckled and the

webbing is fully retracted. The ALR mechanism operates

as a ratchet, winding in slack and preventing the seat

belt from extending any further until it has been

completely rewound. When installing a child safety seat,

engage the belt's automatic locking retractor by pulling

the seat belt webbing until it is fully extended. The ALR

system engages only when the seat belt is at its

maximum extension point.

NOTE: An automatic locking retractor disengages only

when the seat belt is unbuckled and fully retracted. The

belt can then be worn as a normal belt, sliding freely in

and out and locking tight only in an emergency. Once

disengaged, the belt must be fully extended to re-

engage the locking mechanism whenever you install a

child safety seat.

Always follow the detailed instructions provided by the

child safety seat manufacturer. General guidelines are

provided below.

Seating and Safety Restraints

35

Child Safety Seats

In the second row, install LATCH child safety seats in the

outboard seating positions only. Use only a seat belt

retained seat in the center position.

Once installed, test the security of the installation before

seating a child. Attempt to twist the child safety seat

To install a LATCH child safety seat, slide the safety seat

from side to side and try to pull it away from the seat,

latches onto the anchor bars until they click into place.

then check to ensure the anchors remain securely in

Carefully read and follow the instructions provided by

place.

the child safety seat manufacturer.

Attaching Upper Tether Straps

NOTE: Lower LATCH anchors should not be used with

child seats or booster seats that have an integrated

If an upper tether strap is provided, attach its hook to

safety belt in situations where the combined weight of

the anchor point located behind the seat.

the child plus the child restraint is more than 65 lbs (29.5

kg). In these situations, use the safety belt instead.

NOTE: The location of anchor points may not be readily

visible but can be found by identifying a slice in the

seat's material.

WARNING: Tighten upper tether straps according

to the instructions provided by the manufacturer

of the child safety seat.

WARNING: USE ONLY SEAT BELT RETAINED

CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN THE CENTER SEATING

POSITION.

NOTE: If Model Y is equipped with seven seats, the third

row seating positions are not equipped with LATCH

anchors. Use only seat belt retained child safety seats in

a third row seating position.

Make sure the hook is fully seated on the anchor point.

36

Child Safety Seats

For a single-strap tether at an outboard seating position

in the second row, raise the head support (see Head

Supports on page 28) and run the strap under the head

support.

For dual-strap tethers in the second row, position a strap

on each side of the head support.

For a single-strap tether at the center seating position,

raise the head support (see Head Supports on page 28)

and run the strap under the head support.

For dual-strap tethers in the third row (if equipped),

position both straps over the head support.

For a single-strap tether in the third row (if equipped),

position the strap over the head support.

WARNING: Before running a tether strap OVER a

head support, you MUST LOWER the head support

(see Head Supports on page 28).

Seating and Safety Restraints

37

Child Safety Seats

WARNING: Do not use a forward-facing child

safety seat until your child weighs over 20 lbs (9

kg) and can sit independently. Up to the age of

two, a child's spine and neck are not su…ciently

developed to avoid injury in a frontal impact.

WARNING: Do not allow a baby or infant to be

held on a lap. All children should be restrained in

an appropriate child safety seat at all times.

WARNING: To ensure children are safely seated,

follow all instructions provided in this document

and by the manufacturer of the child safety seat.

WARNING: Children should ride in a rear-facing

child safety seat using the seat’s integrated 5-

point harness for as long as possible.

WARNING: Do not use seat belt extenders on a

seat belt that is being used to install a child safety

seat or booster seat.

WARNING: When seating larger children, make

sure the child's head is supported and the child’s

seat belt is properly adjusted and fastened. The

shoulder portion of the belt must be away from

the face and neck, and the lap portion must not be

over the stomach.

WARNING: Never attach two child safety seats to

one anchor point. In a collision, one anchor point

Testing a Child Safety Seat

may be incapable of securing both seats.

Before seating a child, always make sure the child safety

WARNING: Child restraint anchors are designed to

seat is not loose:

withstand only those loads imposed by correctly

fitted child restraints. Under no circumstances are

1. Hold the child safety seat by the belt path and try to

they to be used for adult seat belts, harnesses, or

slide the safety seat from side to side and front to

for attaching other items or equipment to the

vehicle.

back.

2. If the seat moves more than one inch (2.5 cm), it is

WARNING: Always check harnesses and tether

too loose. Tighten the belt or reconnect the LATCH

straps for damage and wear.

retained child safety seat.

WARNING: Never leave a child unattended, even if

3. If you are unable to reduce slack, try a different seat

the child is secured in a child safety seat.

location or try another child safety seat.

WARNING: Never use a child safety seat that has

been involved in a collision. Have the seat

inspected or replaced as described in the child

Child Safety Seat Warnings

safety seat manufacturer’s instructions.

WARNING: Extreme hazard! Do not seat a child on

the front passenger seat even if you are using a

child safety seat. This seat has an airbag in front of

it. Although this airbag is disabled when Model Y

detects a lightweight passenger, do not rely on

technology to protect your child.

WARNING: Seat belt retained child safety seats are

designed to be secured in the vehicle using lap

seat belts or the lap belt portion of a lap-shoulder

seat belt. Children could be endangered in a crash

if their child safety seat is not properly secured.

WARNING: According to collision statistics,

children are safer when properly restrained in the

second row seating positions than in the front

passenger seat.

38

Airbags

Location of Airbags

Airbags are located in the approximate areas shown below. Airbag warning information is printed on the sun visors.

Model Y is equipped with an airbag and lap/shoulder belt at both front seating positions. The airbag is a

supplemental restraint at those seating positions. All occupants, including the driver, should always wear their seat

belts whether or not an airbag is also provided at their seating position to minimize the risk of severe injury or death

in the event of a crash.

1. Knee airbag

2. Front airbags

3. Seat-mounted side airbags

4. Curtain airbags

Opening and Closing

39

Airbags

How Airbags Work

Airbags inflate when sensors detect an impact that exceeds deployment thresholds. These thresholds are designed

to predict the severity of a crash in time for the airbags to help protect the vehicle's occupants. Airbags inflate

instantly with considerable force accompanied by a loud noise. The inflated bag, together with the seat belts, limits

movement of occupants to reduce the risk of injury.

Front airbags are not ordinarily designed to inflate in rear collisions, rollovers, side collisions and when braking

heavily or driving over bumps and potholes. Likewise, front airbags may not inflate in all frontal collisions, such as

minor front collisions, underride collisions, or minor impacts with narrow objects (such as posts or poles). Significant

superficial damage can occur to the vehicle without the airbags inflating and, conversely, a relatively small amount of

structural damage can cause airbags to inflate. Therefore, the external appearance of the vehicle after a collision

does not represent whether or not the front airbags should have inflated.

WARNING: Before modifying your vehicle to accommodate a person with disabilities in a way that may affect

the airbag system, contact Tesla.

Types of Airbags

Model Y has the following types of airbags:

• Front airbags: The front airbags are designed to reduce injuries if larger children or adults are riding in the front

seats. Follow all warnings and instructions related to seating a child on the front passenger seat (if permitted in

your market region).

• Knee airbags: Knee airbags and the front airbags work together. The knee airbags limit the forward motion of the

front seat occupants by restricting leg movement, thereby positioning the occupants so that the front airbags

work more effectively.

• Seat-mounted side airbags: A seat-mounted side airbag in the front seats helps protect the pelvis and the thorax

region of the torso. The seat-mounted side airbags on both the impacted and non-impacted side of the vehicle

will inflate in the event of severe side impact or severe offset frontal impact.

• Curtain airbags: Curtain airbags help protect the head. Curtain airbags on both the impacted and non-impacted

side of the vehicle will inflate only if a severe side impact occurs, or if the vehicle rolls over.

Passenger Front Airbag Status

The status of the passenger front airbag displays in the top corner of the touchscreen:

Before driving with a child seat on the front passenger seat (if legally permitted in your market

region), always double-check the status of the passenger front airbag to confirm that it is OFF.

When the passenger front airbag is OFF, it will not inflate when a collision occurs. This indicator also

displays when the seat is unoccupied.

Before driving with a child seat on the front passenger seat (if legally permitted in your market

region), always double-check the status of the passenger front airbag to confirm that it is OFF.

When the passenger front airbag is OFF, it will not inflate when a collision occurs. This indicator also

displays when the seat is unoccupied.

To protect an adult occupying the front passenger seat, ensure the passenger front airbag is ON.

When the passenger front airbag is ON, it may inflate when a collision occurs.

40

Airbags

Controlling the Passenger Front Airbag

Model Y has an occupancy sensor in the front passenger seat that controls the status of the front airbag.

NOTE: The occupancy classification system (OCS) meets the regulatory requirement of FMVSS 208 and

automatically detects when inflating the passenger front airbag would be unnecessary or potentially harmful.

WARNING: Seating an infant in a rear facing child safety seat on a seat equipped with an operational airbag

can cause serious injury or death.

Object Classification

OCS Passenger

Indicator status

Notes

Airbag Status*

Empty

OFF

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF

Object

OFF or ON

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF or

Depends on material/

PASSENGER AIRBAG ON

contents.

Rear facing child seat

OFF

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF

20 lbs (9 kg) or less

designed for children up to a

year old

Forward facing child seat

OFF

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF

35 lbs (16 kg) or less

Child in a booster seat

OFF or ON

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF or

20-100 lbs (9-45 kg)*

PASSENGER AIRBAG ON

Large child

OFF or ON

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF or

PASSENGER AIRBAG ON

5th percentile female or

ON

PASSENGER AIRBAG ON

Over approximately 100 lbs

larger (by weight)

(45 kg)

*If the passenger airbag status indicator does not match the situation, do not use the seat. The passenger must

ride in a different seat. Contact Tesla Service.

NOTE: It takes approximately six seconds after you power on Model Y for the occupant classification system (OCS)

to report accurate status of the front passenger airbag. As a result, when you first power on Model Y, even in

situations when it should be OFF because the seat is occupied by a weight of 20 lbs (9 kg) or less, it will take the

touchscreen approximately six seconds to display the status, PASS AIRBAG OFF. If it fails to do so, contact Tesla

Service and do not seat a child in the front passenger seating position.

To make sure the sensing system can correctly detect occupancy status, eliminate the following:

• Objects lodged under the seat.

• Heavy objects sitting on the seat (briefcase, large purse).

• Objects wedged between the seat back and seat cushion.

• Cargo interfering with the seat.

• Aftermarket items attached to, or sitting on or between, the seat and occupant including but not limited to

covers, mats, blankets, etc.

These conditions can interfere with the occupancy sensor. If you have eliminated the above possibilities, and the

airbag status is still incorrect, ask passengers to ride in the rear seats and contact Tesla to have the airbag system

checked.

NOTE: The front passenger occupancy sensor affects the operation of the passenger front airbags only. The side

airbags are not affected.

WARNING: If the front passenger airbag is not turning on or off as expected based on the weight thresholds

previously described, contact Tesla immediately.

Seating and Safety Restraints

41

Airbags

Ensuring Accurate Occupant Classification

To help ensure an occupant in the front passenger seat can be accurately classified, the passenger must:

• Wear a seat belt.

• Sit upright on the center of the seat cushion, with shoulders resting against the seat back and legs extended

comfortably in front with feet on the floor. See Examples of Correct and Incorrect Seating Positions on page 44.

• Remain positioned on the seat cushion and not lift their weight off the seat (for example, by pushing their feet

against the floor or pressing on the center console or armrest to lift up).

• Never wear thick, wet, or bulky clothing (such as ski wear or padded clothing).

In addition to the items listed above, the following situations can interfere with the accuracy of the occupant

classification system:

• Placing a radio transmitter (for example, a hunting radio or walkie-talkie) on the front passenger seat.

• Placing an AC/DC inverter, or a device that is being powered by the inverter (for example, a cell phone, tablet, or

computer) on the front passenger seat cushion.

• Placing liquid (such as a bottled drink) or food containers on a car seat when a child seat is present.

• Incorrectly placing a child safety seat so that the entire lower section is not positioned against the seat cushion.

• Objects lodged under the seat or wedged between the seat back and cushion.

• Heavy objects sitting on the seat (briefcase, large purse).

• Cargo interfering with the seat.

• Aftermarket items attached to or placed between the seat and the occupant, such as covers, mats, blankets, etc.

These conditions can interfere with the occupancy sensor. If you have eliminated the above possibilities, and the

airbag status is still incorrect, instruct passengers to ride in the rear seats and contact Tesla to have the airbag

system checked.

NOTE: Tesla follows NHTSA (National Highway Tra…c Safety Administration) recommendations that all occupants

age 12 and under must ride in a rear seating position.

NOTE: The front passenger occupancy sensor affects the operation of the passenger front airbags only. The side

airbags are not affected.

WARNING: Failure to follow the above instructions can adversely affect the Occupant Classification System

(OCS) which can cause serious injury or death.

WARNING: If the front passenger airbag is not turning on or off as expected, do not seat a passenger in the

front passenger seat. Contact Tesla Service.

WARNING: To ensure accuracy of the occupant detection system, do not make any modifications to the front

passenger seat.

WARNING: Do not use seat covers on Model Y. Doing so could restrict deployment of the seat-mounted side

air bags if a collision occurs. It can also reduce the accuracy of the occupant classification system.

Seating and Safety Restraints

43

Airbags

Examples of Correct and Incorrect

Seating Positions

Correct seating position:

Incorrect seating position - the passenger must not

recline the backrest to a laying down position when the

vehicle is moving:

Incorrect seating position - the passenger's feet must

be on the floor:

Incorrect seating position - the passenger must not

slide forward on the seat cushion:

44

Airbags

WARNING: Airbags inflate with considerable

Inflation Effects

speed and force, which can cause injury. To limit

injuries, ensure that occupants are wearing seat

WARNING: When airbags inflate, a fine powder is

belts and are correctly seated, with the seat

released. This powder can irritate the skin and

positioned as far back as possible. The National

should be thoroughly flushed from the eyes and

Highway Tra…c Safety Administration (NHTSA)

from any cuts or abrasions.

recommends a minimum distance of 10" (25 cm)

between an occupant’s chest and an airbag.

After inflation, the airbags deflate to provide a gradual

cushioning effect for the occupants and to ensure the

WARNING: Children should not be seated on the

driver’s forward vision is not obscured.

front passenger seat unless permitted by

regulations in your market region. Follow all

If airbags have inflated, or if your vehicle has been in a

regulations in your region for the appropriate way

collision, your vehicle requires servicing before it will

to seat a child based on the child's weight, size,

power up. In addition, your airbags, seat belt pre-

and age. The safest place to seat infants and

tensioners and any associated components must be

young children is in a rear seating position. Seating

checked, and if necessary, replaced. Contact Tesla

an infant or child in a rear-facing child restraint

Service immediately.

system on a seat equipped with an operational

airbag can cause serious injury or death.

In a collision, in addition to the airbags inflating:

WARNING: Do not use a rear-facing child safety

seat on a seat with an operational airbag in front

• Doors unlock.

of it. Doing so can cause injury or death if the

• Hazard warning lights turn on.

airbag inflates.

• Interior lights turn on.

WARNING: To ensure correct inflation of the side

airbags, maintain an unobstructed gap between an

• High voltage is disabled.

occupant’s torso and the side of Model Y.

WARNING: Passengers shouldn't lean their heads

NOTE: In some collisions, even if airbags did not inflate,

against doors. Doing so can cause injury if a

high voltage may be disabled and you will be unable to

curtain airbag inflates.

power up and drive. Contact Tesla Service immediately.

WARNING: Do not allow passengers to obstruct

the operation of an airbag by placing feet, knees

Airbag Warning Indicator

or any other part of the body on or near an airbag.

WARNING: Do not attach or place objects on or

The airbag indicator on the touchscreen

near the front airbags, the side of the front seats,

remains lit if the airbag system is

the headliner at the side of the vehicle, or any

malfunctioning. The only time this indicator

other airbag cover that could interfere with

should light up is briefly when Model Y first

inflation of an airbag. Objects can cause serious

powers up, in which case it turns off within

injury if the vehicle is in a collision severe enough

a few seconds. If it remains lit, contact

to cause the airbag to inflate.

Tesla immediately and do not drive.

WARNING: Following inflation, some airbag

components are hot. Do not touch until they have

Airbag Warnings

cooled.

WARNING: All occupants, including the driver,

should always wear their seat belts, whether or not

an airbag is also provided at their seating position,

to minimize the risk of severe injury or death in the

event of a collision.

WARNING: Front seat occupants should not place

their arms over the airbag module, as an inflating

airbag can cause fractures or other injuries.

WARNING: Do not use seat covers on Model Y.

Doing so could restrict deployment of the seat-

mounted side air bags if a collision occurs. It can

also reduce the accuracy of the occupant

detection system, if equipped.

Seating and Safety Restraints

45

Driver Profiles

To use Easy Entry with a driver profile, ensure the Use

Creating a Driver Profile

Easy Entry box is checked.

When you first adjust the driver’s seat, steering wheel

WARNING: Never use Easy Entry to move the

position, or exterior side mirrors, the touchscreen

driver's seat to the full rearward position when a

prompts you to create a driver profile to save these

child safety seat is installed on a rear seat located

adjustments. Your profile also saves various preferences

behind the driver's seat. With reduced clearance,

you make while customizing Model Y. See Using Tesla

the movement of the seat may impact a child's

Profiles on page 46 to learn more about saving profile

legs, cause injury, or dislodge the seat.

settings to the cloud for easy access across multiple

Tesla vehicles.

Selecting Between Driver Profiles

To add a new driver profile, touch the

driver profile icon at the top of the

To adjust Model Y based on a driver’s

Controls screen. Then touch Driver Profile

profile, touch the driver profile icon at the

Settings > Add New Driver, type the

top of the Controls screen. Then choose

driver's name and touch Create Profile.

the driver, and Model Y is adjusted based

Follow the onscreen instructions to save

on the settings that have been saved to the

mirror and steering wheel position to the

chosen driver profile. See Using Tesla

driver profile. Check the Use Easy Entry

Profiles on page 46 to learn more about

checkbox if you want to save (or use

saving profile settings to the cloud for easy

existing) Easy Entry settings in which the

access across multiple Tesla vehicles.

driver's seat and the steering wheel are

automatically adjusted to make it easy to

enter and exit Model Y.

Using Tesla Profiles

NOTE: For quick access, the driver profile icon also

Driver profile settings, such as seat adjustments,

displays at the top of the touchscreen when Model Y is

temperature preferences, navigation Recents and

parked.

Favorites, media settings, and data sharing preferences

can be saved into a Tesla Profile that is synced to every

If you change the position of the driver’s seat, steering

supported vehicle under your Tesla Account. This

wheel, or exterior side mirrors after you have saved or

provides convenient access to your profile settings and

chosen a driver profile, the touchscreen prompts you to

preferences across all your Tesla supported vehicles.

Save the new position or Restore the previously saved

position (other settings are automatically saved). To

To set up your Tesla Profile, navigate to Driver Profile

change a setting without saving or restoring, just ignore

Settings and select your Tesla Account name. You can

the prompt.

choose to set it up as a New Profile or copy the settings

from an existing driver profile that you were previously

NOTE: Valet mode is a built-in driver profile that limits

using.

speed and restricts access to some Model Y features

(see Valet Mode on page 47).

To set up a Tesla Profile for additional drivers, share your

NOTE: To stop automatic adjustments that are in

vehicle with them from the mobile app and navigate to

process based on a driver's profile, touch Stop on the

Security > Add Driver. Their Tesla Profile will appear in

Driver Profile dropdown menu. Automatic adjustments

the Driver Profile settings after accepting the invitation

also stop if you manually adjust a seat, mirror, or the

from their Tesla Account. For more information on

steering wheel.

granting mobile app access, see Granting Access to a

Second Driver on page 164.

Easy Entry

NOTE: Some vehicle settings, such as seat, mirror,

steering wheel, and air vent positions are only synced

You can define an Easy Entry setting that moves the

between the same vehicle models. If the seat or steering

steering wheel and driver's seat to make it easy to enter

positions do not restore as expected, touch Controls >

and exit Model Y. Any driver can use the Easy Entry

Service > Seat & Steering Calibration on the affected

setting by associating it with their driver profile. When

vehicles.

the Easy Entry setting is associated with a driver profile,

NOTE: Tesla Profiles are supported on vehicles with

the steering wheel and driver's seat automatically adjust

software versions 2022.24 or higher.

when in Park and the driver's seat belt is unbuckled,

allowing an easy exit from Model Y. When returning to

Your Tesla Profile will be removed from any vehicle not

the vehicle and stepping on the brake pedal, settings

associated with your Tesla Account.

automatically adjust back to the settings used by the

most recent driver profile (or based on the key if it's

linked to a driver profile).

46

Steering Wheel

Adjusting Steering Wheel Position

1. Use the left scroll button to:

◦ Control the volume. Press the scroll button to

mute/unmute the volume, roll the scroll button up

To adjust the steering wheel, touch Controls and touch

to increase the volume or down to decrease the

the Steering icon.

volume.

Use the left scroll button on the steering wheel to move

NOTE: The scroll button adjusts the volume for

the steering wheel to the desired position:

media, navigation instructions or phone calls

based on what is currently in use. As you adjust

• To adjust the height/tilt angle of the steering wheel,

volume, the touchscreen displays the volume level

roll the left scroll button up or down.

and whether you are adjusting volume for media,

navigation or phone calls.

• To move the steering wheel closer to you, or further

away from you, press the left scroll button to the left

◦ Push the scroll button to the right to go to the

or right.

next song, station, or Favorite (depending on

what's playing). Push the scroll button to the left

WARNING: Do not make steering wheel

to return to the previous selection.

adjustments while driving.

◦ Adjust the position of the exterior mirrors (see

Adjusting Exterior Mirrors on page 50).

Adjusting Steering Effort

◦ Adjust the position of the steering wheel (see

Adjusting Steering Wheel Position on page 48).

You can adjust the feel and sensitivity of the steering

system to suit your personal preference:

◦ Adjust the angle of the headlights (see Headlight

Adjustments on page 56).

1. On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Pedals &

2. Use the right scroll button to:

Steering > Steering Mode.

◦ Speak a voice command. Press the button to

2. Choose a steering option:

initiate a voice command (see Voice Commands

◦ Comfort - Reduces the effort required to turn the

on page 150).

steering wheel. In town, Model Y feels easier to

◦ When using Tra…c-Aware Cruise Control, adjust

drive and park.

your set speed and the distance you want to

◦ Standard - Tesla believes that this setting offers

maintain from a vehicle traveling ahead of you

the best handling and response in most

(see Tra…c-Aware Cruise Control on page 88).

conditions.

◦ Sport - Increases the effort required to turn the

NOTE: The arrows associated with the scroll buttons are

steering wheel. When driving at higher speeds,

backlit in low ambient lighting conditions. To turn this

Model Y feels more responsive.

backlighting on or off, touch Controls > Lights >

Steering Wheel Lights.

Scroll Buttons

To restart the touchscreen, press and hold both scroll

buttons until after the touchscreen turns black. See

A scroll button is located on each side of the steering

Restarting the Touchscreen on page 6.

wheel. Use your thumb to press this button to the right

or left. You can also press the button or roll it up or

Heated Steering Wheel

down.

To warm up the steering wheel (if equipped), touch the

fan icon on the touchscreen to display climate controls

(see Adjusting Climate Control Settings on page 130),

then touch the heater icon to display the heaters tab.

Touch the steering wheel icon. When turned on, radiant

heat keeps the steering wheel at a comfortable

temperature.

NOTE: Depending on date of manufacture, your Model Y

may not be equipped with a heated steering wheel.

Horn

To sound the horn, press and hold the center pad on the

steering wheel.

48

Steering Wheel

Driving

49

Mirrors

Driving

51

Starting and Powering Off

Starting

Powering Off

When you open a door to enter Model Y, the

When you finish driving, shift into Park by pressing the

touchscreen powers on and you can operate all controls.

button on the end of the drive stalk. When you leave

To drive Model Y:

Model Y with your phone key and key fob, it powers off

automatically, turning off the touchscreen.

1. Press the brake pedal - Model Y powers on and is

ready to drive.

Model Y also powers off automatically after being in

Park for 30 minutes, even if you are sitting in the driver’s

2. Select a drive mode - move the drive stalk down for

seat.

Drive or up for Reverse (see Shifting on page 53).

Although usually not needed, you can power off Model Y

NOTE: If the PIN to Drive feature is enabled (see PIN to

while sitting in the driver’s seat, provided the vehicle is

Drive on page 152), you must also enter a valid PIN on

not moving. Touch Controls > Safety > Power Off. Model

the touchscreen before you can drive Model Y.

Y automatically powers back on again if you press the

brake pedal or touch the touchscreen.

Everything you need to know when driving Model Y

displays on the touchscreen.

NOTE: Model Y automatically shifts into Park whenever

it determines that you are exiting the vehicle (for

example, the driver's seat belt is unbuckled and the

Drive Disabled - Requires Authentication

vehicle is almost at a standstill). If you shift into Neutral,

Model Y shifts into Park when you open the door to exit.

If Model Y does not detect a key when you press the

To keep Model Y in Neutral, you will need to activate

brake (a key fob or phone key is not detected or two

Transport Mode (see Instructions for Transporters on

minutes have passed since you used the key card), the

page 209).

touchscreen displays a message telling you that driving

requires authentication.

Power Cycling the Vehicle

If you see this message, place the key card behind the

cup holders where the RFID transmitter can read it. The

You can power cycle Model Y if it demonstrates unusual

two-minute authentication period restarts and you can

behavior or displays a nondescript alert.

start Model Y by pressing the brake pedal.

NOTE: If the touchscreen is unresponsive or

demonstrates unusual behavior, reboot it before you

power cycle the vehicle (see Restarting the Touchscreen

on page 6).

1. Shift into Park.

2. On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Safety > Power

Off.

3. Wait for at least two minutes without interacting with

the vehicle. Do not open the doors, touch the brake

pedal, touch the touchscreen, etc.

4. After two minutes, press the brake pedal or open the

door to wake the vehicle.

A number of factors can affect whether Model Y can

detect a phone key or key fob (for example, the device's

battery is low or dead and is no longer able to

communicate using Bluetooth).

Always keep your phone key, key fob, or a key card with

you. After driving, your key is needed to restart Model Y

after it powers off. And when you leave Model Y, you

must bring your key with you to lock Model Y, either

manually or automatically.

52

Shifting

Model Y automatically shifts into Park when you leave

How to Shift

the driver's seat. To stay in Neutral, use the touchscreen

to engage Transport Mode (see Instructions for

When Model Y is in Park, you must press the brake pedal

Transporters on page 209).

to shift.

Move the drive stalk up or down to shift into different

Drive

drive modes.

Push the drive stalk all the way down and release. You

can shift into Drive when Model Y is stopped or moving

less than 5 mph (8 km/h) in Reverse.

NOTE: When in Drive, push the drive stalk all the way

down and release to enable cruise control (see Tra…c-

Aware Cruise Control on page 88) and push the stalk

down twice in quick succession to enable Autosteer (see

Autosteer on page 93).

Park

Press the end of the drive stalk while Model Y is

stopped.

If you try to shift when it is prohibited by the current

driving speed, a chime sounds and the drive mode does

not change.

Model Y automatically shifts into Park whenever you

connect a charge cable or if two or more of the

following conditions are met simultaneously while

Reverse

traveling slower than approximately 1.5 mph (2 km/h):

Push the drive stalk all the way up and release. You can

• The driver's seat belt is unbuckled.

only shift into Reverse when Model Y is stopped or

moving less than 5 mph (8 km/h).

• The occupancy sensor in the driver's seat does not

detect an occupant.

Neutral

• The driver's door is opened.

To make it convenient to pick up passengers, you can

Neutral allows Model Y to roll freely when you are not

also unlock all doors at any time by shifting into Park

pressing the brake pedal:

then pressing the Park button a second time.

• When in Park, shift into Neutral by briefly pushing the

NOTE: You must press the brake pedal to shift out of

drive stalk either up or down to the first position.

Park.

• When in Drive, shift into Neutral by briefly pushing

NOTE: The above conditions do not reflect a

the drive stalk up to the first position. If Autosteer or

comprehensive list of reasons why Model Y may or may

Tra…c-Aware Cruise Control (if equipped) is active,

not automatically shift into Park and, in certain

you must push the drive stalk up to the first position

scenarios, it is possible for your vehicle to shift into Park

and hold it there for more than 1 second. In doing so,

when only one of the above conditions is true.

Autosteer or Tra…c-Aware Cruise Control is disabled.

CAUTION: Model Y will not shift out of Park if the

• When in Reverse, shift into Neutral by briefly pushing

front trunk is not securely shut or if the charge

the drive stalk down to the first position.

port is unable to determine whether a charging

cable is plugged in. Ensure the front trunk is closed

NOTE: You must press the brake pedal to shift out of

and any charging cables are unplugged, and follow

Neutral if driving slower than approximately 5 mph (8

the directions on the touchscreen to proceed.

km/h).

Driving

53

Lights

CAUTION: The rear tail lights are off when daytime

Controlling Lights

running lights are on. Be sure the rear lights are on

during low rear visibility conditions (for example,

Touch Controls > Lights on the touchscreen to access all

when it is dark, foggy, snowy, or the road is wet,

light controls, both interior and exterior.

etc.). Failure to do so can cause damage or serious

injury.

You can also pull the turn signal stalk toward you to

display a popup that provides quick access to exterior

WARNING: Always ensure that headlights are on

lights. For example, you can turn the headlights on or off

during low visibility conditions. Failure to do so

continuously (overriding the default Auto High Beam

may result in a collision.

setting). The lights popup allows you to adjust all

exterior light settings, including parking lights, fog lights

Fog Lights

(if equipped), etc. The setting you choose is retained for

the current drive only.

A separate control is available to turn on fog lights (if

equipped). When on, fog lights operate whenever low

NOTE: If the touchscreen is already displaying the full

beam headlights are on. When headlights are turned off,

Controls screen for lights, pulling the turn signal stalk

fog lights also turn off.

does not display the quick access popup.

Dome Lights

In addition to the lights you can control from the

touchscreen, Model Y has convenience lights that

Turn the interior dome (map) lights on or off. If set to

operate automatically based on what you are doing. For

AUTO, all interior dome lights turn on when you unlock

example, in low ambient lighting conditions, the interior

Model Y, open a door upon exiting, or shift into Park.

lights, marker lights, tail lights, and puddle lights turn on

when you unlock Model Y, when you open a door, and

when you shift into Park. They turn off after a minute or

two, when you shift or lock Model Y. Use these settings

to control your vehicle's interior and exterior lights:

Headlights

Exterior lights (headlights, tail lights, side marker lights,

parking lights, and license plate lights) are set to AUTO

each time you start Model Y. When set to AUTO, exterior

lights automatically turn on when driving in low lighting

conditions. If you change to a different setting, lights

always revert to AUTO on your next drive.

You can also manually turn an individual dome light on

Touch one of these options to temporarily change the

or off by pressing its lens. If you manually turn a dome

exterior light setting:

light on, it turns off when Model Y powers off. If Model Y

was already powered off when you manually turned the

• OFF: Exterior lights turn off until you manually turn

light on, it turns off after 60 minutes.

them back on or until the next time you drive.

NOTE: To control the backlighting on the steering wheel

• PARKING: Only the exterior side marker lights,

buttons, touch Controls > Lights > Steering Wheel

parking lights, tail lights and license plate lights turn

Lights. If on, they turn on whenever headlights are on.

on.

• ON: Exterior lights turn on.

Ambient Lights

When enabled, interior ambient lights turn on whenever

NOTE: Any exterior lights (for example, daytime running

the headlights are on.

lights) that are required to remain on in your market

region will turn on as appropriate when driving, when

Steering Wheel Lights

parked on specific types of roads, etc.

NOTE: Model Y has a series of LED lights along the rim

If you turn on Steering Wheel Lights, the arrows

of the headlights, also referred to as "signature" lights.

associated with the scroll buttons are backlit in low

These lights automatically turn on whenever Model Y is

ambient lighting conditions.

powered on and a drive mode (Drive or Reverse) is

engaged.

Driving

55

Lights

Reading Lights

Low beam headlights are on.

There are two reading lights in the second row seating

area, both above the door and next to the coat hangers

(see Coat Hangers on page 23). Turn an individual

reading light on or off by pressing its lens. The reading

High beam headlights are on and Auto

light will automatically turn off when Model Y powers

High Beam is disabled or currently

off.

unavailable.

High Beam Headlights

Auto High Beam is enabled and high

By default, Auto High Beam is enabled to allow high

beams are on. Model Y is ready to turn off

beam headlights to automatically switch to low beam

the high beams if light is detected.

when there is light detected in front of Model Y (for

example, from an oncoming vehicle). To control this

feature, touch Controls > Lights > Auto High Beam or

touch Auto on the lights popup that displays on the

Auto High Beam is enabled but high beams

touchscreen when you pull the turn signal stalk toward

are not on because light is detected in

you.

front of Model Y. When light is no longer

detected, high beams automatically turn

NOTE: Auto High Beam is automatically enabled when

back on.

Autosteer is engaged for vehicles manufactured after

approximately April 27, 2021. To switch to low beam

WARNING: Auto High Beam is an aid only and is

headlights, push the turn signal stalk forward and

subject to limitations. It is the driver's

release. Auto High Beam is re-enabled every time

responsibility to make sure that the headlights are

Autosteer is activated.

appropriately adjusted for weather conditions and

driving circumstances.

In situations where high beam headlights are off (for

example, lights are turned off, or Auto High Beam is

Headlights After Exit

active and light is detected in front of Model Y) or you

are driving in daylight, you can temporarily turn on high

beams by pulling the turn signal stalk toward you. When

When Headlights after Exit is on, the exterior headlights

you release, high beam headlights turn off (unless of

remain on when you stop driving and park Model Y in

course, Auto High Beam is engaged and light is not

low lighting conditions. They automatically turn off after

detected in front of you). To briefly flash the high beam

one minute or when Model Y locks. When off, headlights

headlights, pull the turn signal stalk towards you and

turn off when you engage Park and open a door.

immediately release.

To turn this feature on or off, touch Controls > Lights >

Headlights after Exit.

Headlight Adjustments

To adjust the angle of the headlights, touch Controls >

Service > Adjust Headlights, then follow the onscreen

instructions. You can choose which headlight you would

like to adjust by selecting it on the touchscreen.

NOTE: Headlights do not require adjustments when

temporarily driving into a region where the tra…c

direction is different (for example, driving in right-hand

tra…c region, and then driving into a region with left-

hand tra…c).

WARNING: Proceed with caution when adjusting

headlights. Tesla has carefully calibrated the

NOTE: Your chosen setting is retained until you manually

position of the headlights to be in an optimum

change it.

position for most driving scenarios. Tesla

The following indicator lights are visible on the

recommends that you do not adjust headlights

touchscreen to show the status of the headlights:

unless you are familiar with how headlights should

be adjusted. Once adjusted, you will be unable to

automatically restore them to their originally

calibrated position. Contact Tesla for assistance

when adjusting headlights.

56

Lights

Turn Signals

The turn signals flash three times or continuously,

depending on how far up or down you move the stalk.

Lightly push the turn signal stalk up or down for a three-

flash sequence. For a continuous signal, push the stalk

fully up or down.

NOTE: Hazard warning flashers operate even when

Model Y cannot detect a key.

NOTE: The hazard warning light button is illuminated

whenever Model Y is powered on.

The turn signals stop operating when canceled by the

steering wheel, by moving the stalk in the opposite

direction, or lightly pushing the stalk in the same

direction once more.

The corresponding turn signal indicator

lights up on the touchscreen when a turn

signal is operating. Model Y also emits a

clicking sound.

The corresponding turn signal indicator

lights up on the touchscreen when a turn

signal is operating. Model Y also emits a

clicking sound.

WARNING: When actively using Tra…c-Aware

Cruise Control, engaging a turn signal can cause

Model Y to accelerate in specific situations (see

Overtake Acceleration on page 91).

WARNING: When actively using Autosteer,

engaging a turn signal can cause Model Y to

change lanes (see Auto Lane Change on page

95).

Hazard Warning Flashers

To turn on the hazard warning flashers, press the button

located above the rear view mirror. All turn signals flash.

Press the button again to turn off the hazard warning

flashers.

Driving

57

Car Status

Overview

Indicator Lights

The touchscreen displays the status of Model Y at all

The following indicator lights illuminate to advise you or

times. What you see depends on whether the vehicle is:

alert you of a specific status or condition.

• Parked (shown below).

A brake system fault is detected or the

brake fluid level is low. See Braking and

• Driving (see Driving Status on page 59).

Stopping on page 62. Contact Tesla

• Charging (see Charging Status on page 170).

immediately.

When Model Y is parked, the status area shows the drive

A brake booster fault has been detected.

mode, estimated range, and an overhead view of the car

See Braking and Stopping on page 62.

with buttons you can touch to open the trunks and

charge port door. When you press the brake, Model Y

powers up and indicator lights flash briefly. Unless an

indicator light applies to the current situation (for

example, a seat belt is not fastened), it should turn off. If

An ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) fault is

an indicator light fails to turn on or off, contact Tesla.

detected. See Braking and Stopping on

page 62. Contact Tesla immediately.

NOTE: The following image is provided for

demonstration purposes only. Depending on vehicle

options, software version, and market region, the

information displayed may be slightly different.

A parking brake fault is detected. Contact

Tesla. See Parking Brake on page 64.

The parking brake is manually applied. See

Parking Brake on page 64.

Tire pressure warning. The pressure of a

tire is out of range. If a fault with the Tire

Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is

detected, the indicator flashes. For a TPMS

fault, contact Tesla. See Tire Care and

Maintenance on page 176.

A seat belt for an occupied seat is not

fastened. See Seat Belts on page 30.

Airbag safety. If this indicator does not

flash on briefly when Model Y prepares to

drive, or if it remains on, contact Tesla

immediately. See Airbag Warning Indicator

on page 45.

Front fog lights are on, if equipped. See

Lights on page 55.

Parking lights are on (side marker lights,

tail lights, and license plate lights) . See

Lights on page 55.

58

Car Status

heat your Battery by turning on climate

Low beam headlights are on.

control with the mobile app. The snowflake

disappears when the Battery is su…ciently

warm.

Vehicle power is currently being limited

because the energy remaining in the

High beam headlights are on and Auto

Battery is low, the vehicle's systems are

High Beam is disabled or currently

being heated or cooled, or an error is

unavailable.

detected by the drive inverter .

Auto High Beam is enabled and high

Driving Status

beams are on. Model Y is ready to turn off

the high beams if light is detected. See

When Model Y is driving (or ready to drive), the

High Beam Headlights on page 56.

touchscreen shows your current driving status and a

real-time visualization of the road as detected by the

Autopilot components (see About Autopilot on page

Auto High Beam is enabled but high beams

85). The visualization automatically zooms in and out

are not on because light is detected in

to better utilize touchscreen space and inform you when

front of Model Y. When light is no longer

a vehicle is detected in your blind spot.

detected, high beams automatically turn

back on. See High Beam Headlights on

NOTE: The following illustration is provided for

page 56.

demonstration purposes only. Depending on vehicle

options, software version, and market region, the

This indicator flashes amber when the

information displayed may be slightly different.

electronic stability control systems are

actively minimizing wheel spin by

controlling brake pressure and motor

power. See Traction Control on page 66.

If this indicator remains on, a fault is

detected and you should immediately

contact Tesla.

Electronic stability control systems are no

longer minimizing wheel spin. On a Rear

Wheel Drive vehicle, the traction control

system has been turned off, or on an All-

Wheel Drive vehicle, Slip Start has been

enabled. See Traction Control on page

66.

Trailer mode (if equipped) is active (see

Towing and Accessories on page 75).

Vehicle Hold is actively applying the

brakes. See Vehicle Hold on page 69.

A door or trunk is open. See Doors on

page 11, Rear Trunk on page 14, or Front

Trunk on page 16.

NOTE: When full self-driving is enabled (if equipped),

A blue snowflake appears when some of

the car status area displays visualizations of the road

the energy stored in the Battery may not

and your vehicle's surroundings. You can expand the

be available due to cold weather

visualization by dragging the car status area from side

conditions. During these cold weather

to side. This displays more details about the roadway

conditions, charging rates may also be

and its surroundings including road markings, stop

limited. If Model Y is plugged in, you can

lights, and objects (such as trash cans and poles).

Driving

59

Wipers and Washers

Wipers

To perform a single wipe with the windshield wipers,

press and immediately release the button on the end of

the turn signal stalk. You can access the wiper settings

from the main Controls screen to adjust the speed of the

wipers:

I - Intermittent, slow

Periodically top up washer fluid (see Topping Up

II - Intermittent, fast

Windshield Washer Fluid on page 187).

III - Continuous, slow

IIII - Continuous, fast

Auto: Model Y detects whether or not it is raining. When

wipers are set to Auto and liquid is detected on the

windshield, Model Y determines the optimal frequency

at which they should wipe. If Model Y does not detect

liquid on the windshield, the wipers do not wipe.

For one-touch access to the wipers, you can add the

wiper control to My Apps. See Customizing My Apps on

page 6.

NOTE: You can also adjust the windshield wiper speed

and frequency using voice commands (see Voice

Commands on page 150).

NOTE: Autopilot requires wipers to be set to AUTO for

vehicles manufactured after approximately April 27,

2021. This setting is automatic and you cannot change it.

CAUTION: Ensure the wipers are off before

washing Model Y to avoid the risk of damaging the

wipers.

Periodically check and clean the edge of the wiper

blades. If a blade is damaged, replace it immediately. For

details on checking and replacing wiper blades, see

Wiper Blades and Washer Jets on page 186.

CAUTION: To avoid damaging the hood, ensure

that the hood is fully closed before using the

windshield wipers.

CAUTION: In harsh climates, ensure that the wiper

blades are not frozen or adhered to the windshield.

Remove ice from the windshield before using the

wipers. Ice has sharp edges that can damage the

rubber on the blades.

Windshield Washers

Fully press and hold the button on the end of the turn

signal stalk to spray washer fluid onto the windshield.

While spraying the windshield, the wipers turn on. After

releasing the button, the wipers perform two additional

wipes then, depending on vehicle and environmental

conditions, a third wipe a few seconds later.

Driving

61

Braking and Stopping

WARNING: Always maintain a safe distance from

Braking Systems

the vehicle in front of you and be aware of

hazardous driving conditions. While the ABS can

WARNING: Properly functioning braking systems

improve stopping distance, it cannot overcome the

are critical to ensure safety. If you experience a

laws of physics. It also does not prevent the

problem with the brake pedal, brake calipers, or

danger of hydroplaning (where a layer of water

any component of a Model Y braking system,

prevents direct contact between the tires and the

contact Tesla immediately.

road).

Model Y has an anti-lock braking system (ABS) that

CAUTION: Automatic Emergency Braking (see

prevents the wheels from locking when you apply

Automatic Emergency Braking on page 120) may

maximum brake pressure. This improves steering control

intervene to automatically brake in situations

during heavy braking in most road conditions.

where a collision is considered imminent.

Automatic Emergency Braking is not designed to

During emergency braking conditions, the ABS

prevent a collision. At best, it can minimize the

constantly monitors the speed of each wheel and varies

impact of a frontal collision by attempting to

the brake pressure according to the grip available.

reduce your driving speed. Depending on

Automatic Emergency Braking to avoid a collision

The alteration of brake pressure can be felt as a pulsing

can result in serious injury or death.

sensation through the brake pedal. This demonstrates

CAUTION: In emergency situations, if the brakes

that the ABS is operating and is not a cause for concern.

are not functioning properly, press and hold the

Keep firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal while

Park button on the drive stalk to bring the vehicle

experiencing the pulsing.

to a stop. Do not use this method to stop the

vehicle unless absolutely necessary.

The ABS indicator briefly flashes yellow on

the touchscreen when you first start Model

Dynamic Brake Lights (if equipped)

Y. If this indicator lights up at any other

time, an ABS fault has occurred and the

ABS is not operating. Contact Tesla. The

If you are driving over 30 mph (50 km/h) and brake

braking system remains fully operational

forcefully (or if Automatic Emergency Braking engages),

and is not affected by an ABS failure.

the brake lights flash quickly to warn other drivers that

However, braking distances may increase.

Model Y is rapidly slowing down. If Model Y stops

Drive cautiously and avoid heavy braking.

completely, the hazard warning lights flash. Flashing

continues until you press the accelerator or manually

If the touchscreen displays this red brake

press the hazard lights button to turn them off (see

indicator at any time other than briefly

Hazard Warning Flashers on page 57).

when you first start Model Y, a brake

system fault is detected, or the level of the

NOTE: When towing a trailer (if applicable), the brake

brake fluid is low. Contact Tesla

lights on the trailer also operate as described above,

immediately. Apply steady pressure and

even when the trailer is not equipped with a separate

keep the brakes firm to bring the vehicle to

braking system.

a stop when safe to do so.

WARNING: When towing a trailer (if applicable),

always increase your following distance. Sudden

The touchscreen displays this yellow brake

braking may result in skidding, jack-knifing, and

indicator if a brake booster fault is

loss of control.

detected. Apply steady pressure and keep

the brakes firm to stop the vehicle when

safety permits. Hydraulic Boost

Brake Disc Wiping

Compensation will be active (see Hydraulic

Boost Compensation on page 63).

To ensure brakes remain responsive in cold and wet

weather, Model Y is equipped with brake disc wiping.

When cold and wet weather is detected, this feature

Emergency Braking

repeatedly applies an imperceptible amount of brake

force to remove water from the surface of the brake

In an emergency, fully press the brake pedal and

discs.

maintain firm pressure, even on low traction surfaces.

The ABS varies the braking pressure to each wheel

Hydraulic Fade Compensation

according to the amount of traction available. This

prevents wheels from locking and ensures that you stop

as safely as possible.

Model Y is equipped with hydraulic fade compensation.

This assists in monitoring brake system pressure and

WARNING: Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so

ABS activity for instances of reduced brake

interrupts operation of the ABS and can increase

performance. If reduced brake performance is detected

braking distance.

(for example, as a result of brake fade, or cold or wet

62

Braking and Stopping

conditions), you may hear a sound, feel the brake pedal

The power meter (a thin horizontal line centered at the

pull away from your foot, and notice a strong increase in

top of the touchscreen's car status area) displays real-

braking. Brake as you normally would and continue to

time power usage:

press the brake pedal without releasing or pumping the

brakes.

CAUTION: If brakes are not functioning properly,

stop the vehicle when safety permits and contact

Tesla Service. See Park on page 53 for information

on using the Park button to stop the vehicle in

1. The left side of the power meter represents power

case of emergency.

generated from regenerative braking, or power that is

WARNING: Always maintain a safe driving distance

used to slow down the vehicle. Power being fed back

from the vehicle in front of you and exercise

to the Battery displays in green whereas power used

caution when driving conditions are hazardous.

by the regular braking system displays in gray.

Brake disc wiping and hydraulic fade

2. The right side of the power meter shows power that

compensation is not a substitute for adequately

is used to accelerate the vehicle. During acceleration,

applying the brakes.

the power meter fills to the right with gray to

represent the amount of power being used.

Hydraulic Boost Compensation

NOTE: To ensure visibility when the display is dark,

Model Y is equipped with a brake booster that activates

power represented by the gray color displays as white.

the brakes when the brake pedal is pressed. Hydraulic

NOTE: Installing winter tires with aggressive compound

boost compensation provides mechanical assistance if

and tread design may result in temporarily-reduced

the brake booster fails. If a brake booster failure is

regenerative braking power. However, your vehicle is

detected, the brake pedal feels stiffer to press and you

designed to continuously recalibrate itself, and after

may hear a sound when you press the brake pedal. To

changing tires it will increasingly restore regenerative

stop Model Y, apply steady force to the brake pedal

braking power after some straight-line accelerations. For

without releasing or pumping. Drive cautiously and

most drivers this occurs after a short period of normal

maintain a safe distance from other road users—brake

driving, but drivers who normally accelerate lightly may

pedal responsiveness and braking performance may be

need to use slightly harder accelerations while the

degraded.

recalibration is in progress.

NOTE: If regenerative braking is aggressively slowing

Regenerative Braking

Model Y (such as when your foot is completely off the

accelerator pedal at highway speeds), the brake lights

Whenever Model Y is moving and your foot is off the

turn on to alert others that you are slowing down.

accelerator, regenerative braking slows down the vehicle

WARNING: In snowy or icy conditions, Model Y

and feeds any surplus power back to the Battery. By

may experience loss of traction during

anticipating your stops and reducing or removing

regenerative braking.

pressure from the accelerator pedal to slow down, you

can take advantage of regenerative braking to increase

driving range.

Stopping Mode

Vehicle deceleration due to regenerative braking may

Regenerative braking decelerates Model Y whenever you

vary depending on the current state of the Battery. For

release the accelerator pedal when driving. You can

example, regenerative braking may be limited if the

choose what you want Model Y to do once the driving

Battery is cold or is already fully charged.

speed has been reduced to a very low speed (almost at

a stop) and both the accelerator pedal and brake pedal

To experience the same amount of deceleration

are released. While in Park, touch Controls > Pedals &

whenever you release the accelerator pedal, regardless

Steering > Stopping Mode and choose from these

of the state of the Battery, you can choose to have the

options:

regular braking system automatically engage whenever

regenerative braking is limited. Touch Controls > Pedals

• Creep: When close to, or at, a complete stop, the

& Steering > Apply Brakes When Regenerative Braking

motor continues to apply torque, moving Model Y

is Limited.

slowly forward (in Drive) or backwards (in Reverse),

similar to a conventional vehicle with an automatic

NOTE: If Apply Brakes When Regenerative Braking is

transmission. In some situations, such as on a steep

Limited is enabled and applying the brakes, the brake

hill or driveway, you may need to press the

pedal may move and it may feel stiffer when pressed.

accelerator pedal to continue moving or to prevent

This is expected and does not change your ability to

Model Y from moving in the opposite direction.

slow down Model Y.

Driving

63

Braking and Stopping

WARNING: Never rely on Creep to apply

Parking Brake

enough torque to prevent your vehicle from

rolling down a hill. Always press the brake pedal

To engage the parking brake, touch Controls > Safety >

to remain stopped or the accelerator pedal to

Parking Brake. Follow the onscreen instructions. You can

proceed up the hill. Failure to do so can result in

also engage the parking brake by pressing and holding

property damage and/or a collision.

the button on the end of the drive stalk while in Park.

• Hold: Maximizes range and reduces brake wear by

continuing to provide regenerative braking at speeds

lower than with the Creep and Roll settings. When

Model Y stops, the brakes are automatically applied

without you having to put your foot on the brake

pedal. Whether stopped on a flat surface or a hill,

Vehicle Hold keeps the brake applied, provided your

foot remains off the accelerator and brake pedals.

See Vehicle Hold on page 69.

WARNING: Never rely on Hold to adequately

decelerate or fully stop your vehicle. Many

Use the touchscreen to manually release the parking

factors can contribute to a longer stopping

brake (which also shifts Model Y into Neutral):

distance, including downward slopes, and

reduced or limited regenerative braking (see

1. Touch Controls > Safety.

Regenerative Braking on page 63). Always be

prepared to use the brake pedal to adequately

2. Press the brake pedal, then touch Parking Brake. If

decelerate or stop.

Model Y was previously in Park, it shifts into Neutral.

• Roll: When close to, or at, a complete stop, Model Y

When you manually apply the parking

becomes free rolling like a vehicle in Neutral.

brake using the touchscreen, or by

Therefore, if stopped on a slope, Model Y will roll

pressing and holding the button on the end

downward. The brake does not engage, and the

of the drive stalk when in Park, the red

motor does not apply torque (until the accelerator

parking brake indicator lights up on the

pedal is pressed).

touchscreen.

NOTE: If you choose Creep or Roll, you can still use

Vehicle Hold to apply the brakes. However, you will

If the parking brake experiences an

need to briefly press the brake pedal when the

electrical issue, the amber parking brake

vehicle is stopped. See Vehicle Hold on page 69.

indicator lights up and a fault message

displays on the touchscreen.

WARNING: Press the brake pedal if Model Y moves

when unsafe to do so. It is your responsibility to

NOTE: The parking brake operates on the rear wheels

stay alert and be in control of the vehicle at all

only, and is independent of the pedal-operated brake

times. Failure to do so can result in serious

system.

damage, injury, or death.

CAUTION: In the unlikely event that Model Y loses

WARNING: Do not rely on regenerative braking

electrical power, you cannot access the

and your chosen Stopping Mode to keep you and

touchscreen and are therefore unable to release

your vehicle safe. Various factors such as driving

the parking brake without first jump starting Model

with a heavy vehicle load, on a steep hill, or on wet

Y (see Instructions for Transporters on page 209).

or icy roads affect deceleration rate and the

WARNING: In snowy or icy conditions the rear

distance at which Model Y will come to a stop.

wheels may not have su…cient traction to prevent

Drive attentively and always stay prepared to use

Model Y from sliding down a slope, particularly if

the brake pedal to stop as appropriate based on

not using winter tires. Avoid parking on hills in

tra…c and road conditions.

snowy or icy conditions. You are always

WARNING: Forward Collision Warning and

responsible for parking safely.

Automatic Emergency Braking do not operate

WARNING: Your Model Y may display an alert if

when driving at very low speeds (see Collision

the road is too steep to safely park on, or if the

Avoidance Assist on page 119). Do not rely on

parking brakes are not properly engaged. These

these features to warn you, or to prevent or reduce

alerts are for guidance purposes only and are not a

the impact of a collision.

substitute for the driver’s judgment of safe parking

conditions, including specific road or weather

conditions. Do not depend on these alerts to

determine whether or not it is safe to park at any

location. You are always responsible for parking

safely.

64

Traction Control

After the circumstances that required you to turn on Slip

How It Works

Start or Off-Road Assist have passed, it is strongly

recommended that you turn the setting off to re-enable

The traction control system constantly monitors the

traction control. If you leave these settings on, Traction

speed of the front and rear wheels. If Model Y

Control automatically re-enables on your next drive.

experiences a loss of traction, the system minimizes

wheel spin by controlling brake pressure and motor

When you turn on Slip Start or Off-Road

power. By default, the traction control system is on.

Assist, the touchscreen displays an

Under normal conditions, it should remain on to ensure

indicator light to indicate that the traction

maximum safety.

control system is no longer preventing

wheel slip.

This yellow indicator flashes on the

touchscreen whenever the traction control

NOTE: Although you can use Slip Start and Off-Road

system is actively controlling brake

Assist at any speed, it is less effective at higher speeds.

pressure and motor power to minimize

NOTE: Slip Start and Off-Road Assist are not available

wheel spin. If the indicator stays on, a fault

when you are actively using Autopilot.

is detected with the traction control

system. Contact Tesla Service.

NOTE: Engaging cruise control when Slip Start or Off-

Road Assist is on causes the feature to turn off and

WARNING: Traction control cannot prevent

traction control to be re-enabled.

collisions caused by driving dangerously or turning

too sharply at high speeds.

NOTE: Automatic Emergency Braking and Lane

Departure Avoidance do not operate when Off-Road

Assist is turned on.

Disabling Traction Control

Under normal conditions, the traction control system

should remain on. Turn it off only in circumstances

where you deliberately want the wheels to spin, such as:

• Starting on a loose surface, such as gravel or snow.

• Driving in deep snow, sand or mud.

• Rocking out of a hole or deep rut.

• Driving off-road.

On Rear-Wheel Drive vehicles, turn off traction control

and allow the wheels to spin by touching Controls >

Pedals & Steering > Slip Start.

On All-Wheel Drive vehicles, you can choose one of

these options, depending on the circumstances:

• Slip Start is designed to make it easier to dislodge

Model Y when stuck in mud, snow, ice, etc. Turning on

Slip Start allows the wheels to spin, making it

possible to rock Model Y out of a situation in which

the wheels are stuck.

• Off-Road Assist is designed to provide overall

improvements when driving off-road. In addition to

allowing the wheels to spin, Off-Road Assist balances

the torque between the front and rear motors to

optimize traction. Off-Road Assist improves traction

on rough and soft surfaces where one side of the

vehicle may lose traction while the other side still has

traction. When Off-Road Assist is on, the accelerator

pedal provides more gradual torque, which is useful

for crawling at low speeds (for example, over rocky

surfaces). When enabled, OFF-ROAD displays on the

touchscreen above the driving speed.

66

Park Assist

How Park Assist Works

Model Y has several sensors designed to detect the

presence of objects. When driving slowly in Drive or

Reverse (for example, when parking), the vehicle alerts

you if an object is detected in close proximity of your

Model Y. Objects are only detected in your chosen

direction; front objects in Drive, rear objects in Reverse.

WARNING: You may not be alerted if Model Y rolls

freely in the opposite direction (for example, Park

Assist does not display an alert if Model Y rolls

backwards down a hill while in Drive).

NOTE: Rear sensors are disabled when a bicycle is

detected or Model Y is in trailer mode.

WARNING: Never depend on Park Assist to inform

you if an area you are approaching is free of

objects and/or people. Several external factors can

reduce the performance of Park Assist, causing

either no readings or false readings (see

Limitations and False Warnings on page 68).

Therefore, depending on Park Assist to determine

if Model Y is approaching an obstruction can result

in damage to the vehicle and/or objects, and can

potentially cause serious injury. Always inspect the

area with your own eyes. When reversing, perform

shoulder checks and use all mirrors. Park assist

does not detect children, pedestrians, bicyclists,

animals, or objects that are moving, protruding,

located too far above or below the sensors, or too

close or too far from the sensors. Park Assist is for

guidance purposes only and is not intended to

replace your own direct visual checks. It is not a

substitute for careful driving.

Visual and Audio Feedback

When you shift to Reverse, the Park Assist view displays

on the touchscreen, showing objects that are in close

proximity to the front and rear of Model Y. This view

closes when you shift into Drive unless an object is

detected close to the front of Model Y, in which case the

Park Assist view closes automatically when your driving

speed exceeds 5 mph (8 km/h). When reversing, visual

feedback also displays on the touchscreen (see Rear

Facing Camera(s) on page 73). You can manually close

the park assist view on the touchscreen by touching the

X.

When driving with the Camera app displayed on the

The sensors are activated when driving slower than

touchscreen, you can switch to the Park Assist view

5 mph (8 km/h).

when driving at speeds below 5 mph (8 km/h). Touch

the button located in the upper left corner of the

Camera app screen. This is useful if you need assistance

with parallel parking.

If chimes are turned on (see Controlling Audible

Feedback on page 68), an audible beep sounds as you

approach an object.

NOTE: If a sensor is unable to provide feedback, the

touchscreen displays an alert message.

Driving

67

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