How to Put a Tesla in Drive: A Comprehensive Guide for New and Seasoned Drivers

The seemingly simple act of putting a car in drive has been reimagined in the world of Tesla. No traditional gear stick here, folks. Instead, Tesla employs a steering column-mounted stalk with a minimalist design that handles driving modes. So, how do you engage Drive? Simply push the stalk down once. That’s it! But of course, there’s more to the story than just that. Let’s dive into the intricacies of navigating your Tesla, from selecting Drive to mastering Auto Shift.

Understanding the Tesla Gear Selector

The heart of controlling your Tesla’s direction lies in the right-hand stalk behind the steering wheel. This stalk isn’t just for Drive; it also manages Reverse and Park. A single, upward nudge shifts you into Reverse, while pressing the button at the end of the stalk engages Park. Neutral is achieved by pushing the stalk up or down briefly. This minimalist design takes some getting used to for drivers accustomed to traditional gear shifters, but it quickly becomes intuitive.

The Importance of Safety Features

Before you even think about engaging Drive, ensure that your Tesla is ready for the road. Always buckle your seatbelt. Teslas are designed with safety in mind, and many features are contingent on you being properly secured. Also, pay attention to the touchscreen. If any warning messages are displayed, address them before attempting to drive. These messages are crucial for your safety and the well-being of your vehicle.

A Deep Dive into Drive Mode

Once you push the stalk down to engage Drive, your Tesla is ready to move forward. The car’s responsiveness to the accelerator pedal is determined by the driving mode you have selected. Options typically include Chill, Standard/Comfort, and Sport (or Ludicrous/Plaid on higher-performance models). Chill mode prioritizes efficiency and provides a gentler acceleration curve, ideal for city driving or conserving battery life. Standard/Comfort mode offers a balance between performance and efficiency, suitable for everyday driving. Sport mode unleashes the car’s full potential, delivering maximum acceleration and responsiveness. Experiment with the different modes to find the one that best suits your driving style and road conditions.

Auto Shift: The Future is Now

Some newer Tesla models boast Auto Shift, a feature that attempts to predict your desired direction based on your surroundings. This means the car can automatically select Drive or Reverse based on the presence of an obstacle in front or behind the vehicle. While Auto Shift is a fascinating technology, it’s critical to remain vigilant and confirm the car’s selection before proceeding. You can override Auto Shift at any time by using the stalk manually. To enable Auto Shift, navigate to Controls > Pedals & Steering > Auto Shift from Park.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Driving a Tesla

Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you better understand the nuances of putting a Tesla in Drive and beyond:

1. What happens if I accidentally put the car in Reverse instead of Drive?

If you inadvertently engage Reverse, the car will begin moving backward. However, Tesla’s safety features are designed to mitigate potential risks. The car will typically limit the speed in Reverse and provide audible warnings. If you realize your mistake, immediately depress the brake pedal and select Drive.

2. How do I put the car in Neutral?

To engage Neutral, push the gear selector stalk briefly either up or down. The touchscreen will indicate that the car is in Neutral. Remember that Neutral is useful for situations like car washes or when the vehicle needs to be pushed.

3. What is the purpose of the button on the end of the gear selector stalk?

The button at the end of the stalk is used to engage Park. Pressing it will immediately shift the car into Park, engaging the parking brake.

4. Can I shift into Drive while the car is still moving?

While it’s generally not recommended to abruptly shift into Drive from Reverse (or vice-versa) while the car is moving, Tesla’s system is designed to prevent damage. The car will likely ignore the shift request until the speed has slowed sufficiently. However, avoid doing this unless absolutely necessary, as it can put undue stress on the drivetrain.

5. What do I do if the gear selector stalk malfunctions?

If the gear selector stalk malfunctions, the touchscreen will display an error message. In such cases, contact Tesla Service immediately. Do not attempt to drive the car if you suspect a problem with the gear selection system. Tesla also has a “gear selection” option in the touchscreen settings under “Controls,” “Service,” and “Mobile Repair.”

6. Does the car automatically engage Park when I turn it off?

Yes, in most situations, the car will automatically engage Park when you exit the vehicle. However, it’s still a good practice to manually confirm that the car is in Park, especially on an incline. Auto Park can be disabled in the settings.

7. How does Auto Shift work, and is it safe?

Auto Shift uses the car’s sensors and cameras to determine the direction you intend to travel. For example, if there is an obstacle in front of the car, it will likely select Reverse. While Auto Shift is a convenient feature, it’s crucial to remain attentive and verify the car’s selection before proceeding. You can always manually override Auto Shift by using the stalk. Tesla continues to refine Auto Shift through over-the-air software updates, improving its accuracy and safety.

8. Can I customize the driving modes?

While you can’t directly customize the pre-set driving modes (Chill, Standard/Comfort, Sport/Ludicrous/Plaid), you can adjust other settings that affect the driving experience, such as steering feel and regenerative braking. Experiment with these settings to fine-tune the car’s behavior to your liking.

9. What is regenerative braking, and how does it affect driving?

Regenerative braking is a system that captures energy when you lift your foot off the accelerator pedal, slowing the car down and sending power back to the battery. This increases efficiency and extends the range of the vehicle. Regenerative braking can be adjusted in the settings, with options for “Standard” and “Low.” “Standard” provides the most noticeable deceleration when you lift off the accelerator, while “Low” provides a more traditional coasting experience.

10. How do I activate Autopilot after engaging Drive?

Once in Drive, you can engage Autopilot by pulling the gear selector stalk down twice in quick succession. Autopilot uses the car’s sensors and cameras to assist with steering, acceleration, and braking within its lane. It’s crucial to remember that Autopilot is a driver-assistance system and requires your constant attention. Always keep your hands on the steering wheel and be prepared to take over control if necessary.

11. What happens if I try to shift gears while Autopilot is engaged?

If you attempt to shift gears while Autopilot is engaged, Autopilot will disengage. This is a safety feature designed to ensure that you are in full control of the vehicle when changing direction.

12. Where can I find more information about driving and operating my Tesla?

The best resource for learning about your Tesla is the owner’s manual, which can be accessed through the touchscreen. The manual provides detailed information about all of the car’s features and functions. You can also find helpful videos and tutorials on Tesla’s website and YouTube channel. Additionally, Tesla forums and online communities are great places to connect with other Tesla owners and ask questions.

Mastering the simple act of putting your Tesla in Drive opens the door to a world of innovation and driving pleasure. By understanding the gear selector, safety features, and driving modes, you can confidently navigate the roads and enjoy the unique experience that Tesla offers. Remember, safety is paramount, and continuous learning is key to maximizing your enjoyment of your electric vehicle.