Got a Tesla? Whether you’re a new owner or already loving the EV life, these tips will make you drive smarter, charge faster, and get more out of your Tesla — like a real pro.
1. Customize Your Driving Profile for Every Detail
Go to Controls > Driver Profile Settings and set everything — seat position, mirror angles, climate preferences, even steering mode.
Bonus Tip: Create a “Chill Mode” for relaxed drives and a “Sport Mode” for spirited ones. You can also link a key card or phone to each profile
2. Use Scheduled Departure for Efficient Charging
Instead of plugging in and letting it sit fully charged, use Scheduled Departure to finish charging right before you leave.
Why it matters: Batteries stay healthier and warm up for better range.
Find it under: Charging > Scheduled Departure
3. Set Charging Limit to 80–90% for Daily Use
Unless you’re going on a road trip, avoid charging to 100%.
Tesla recommends keeping your battery between 20% and 90% for daily driving to extend battery life.
4. Swipe Down on the Navigation Screen to Go Home or Work
Want a quick route to your saved places? Just swipe down on the map and Tesla will instantly navigate you to Home or Work — no typing needed.
5. Use Dog Mode to Keep Pets Cool
Going into a store for a few minutes? Activate Dog Mode from the climate screen so the A/C stays on and your screen says: “My owner will be back soon. Don’t worry, the climate is controlled.”
6. Tap the Battery Icon for Nearby Chargers
Stuck with low charge? Don’t panic. Tap the battery icon on your screen to instantly see all nearby Superchargers, Destination Chargers, or other stations — with real-time availability.
7. Learn the Regen Braking “Feel”
Tesla’s regenerative braking means you slow down by easing off the pedal — not slamming the brake. Mastering it means smoother driving, better range, and less wear on brake pads.
8. Clean the Cameras Often
If your Autopilot or FSD starts acting weird, it’s often a dirty camera issue.
Wipe off the side pillar and bumper cameras with a microfiber cloth — especially after rain, bugs, or road trips.
9. Use the Tesla App for Literally Everything
Your phone is your key — but it’s also your dashboard.
From pre-conditioning the cabin to checking range, unlocking the car, tracking charging, and even calling the car to drive itself to you (Smart Summon), the app is your best friend.
10. Save Energy by Turning Off Always-On Features
Go to Controls > Display > Energy Settings and turn off things like Sentry Mode (if you’re parked in a safe area) or Cabin Overheat Protection (when not needed).
These features are helpful, but they drain power when the car’s just sitting.
11. Use Voice Commands — They Actually Work
Say things like:
- “Turn on the seat heater”
- “Navigate to Starbucks”
- “Open glovebox”
It saves time and keeps your eyes on the road.Just press the right scroll wheel and speak clearly.
12. Join Tesla Owner Communities for Tips & Fixes
From Facebook groups to Reddit and Tesla Motors Club, other Tesla owners will teach you more than the manual ever could.
You’ll find custom accessory recommendations, software tricks, troubleshooting help, and travel advice.
What’s Your Best Tesla Tip?
Owning a Tesla is fun, but knowing these little tricks makes it amazing.
Whether you’re helping your battery last longer or flexing a voice command in front of your friends, these tips will make you look like you’ve been driving Teslas for years.
Got a tip that every new Tesla owner should know? Drop it in the comments!