Table of Contents

How to Activate Autopilot and Navigate the Self-Driving World in Your Tesla Model 3

So, you’re the proud owner of a Tesla Model 3 and itching to experience the future of driving? Excellent choice! Getting started with Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities can feel a bit like navigating a spaceship at first, but fear not! This comprehensive guide will break down the process into easily digestible steps, turning you into a seasoned Tesla pilot in no time.

To answer your burning question directly: Turning on Autopilot in a Tesla Model 3 involves engaging Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer. This is achieved by pulling the gear selector lever (the stalk on the right side of the steering wheel) downward twice in quick succession. Activating Full Self-Driving (FSD), if purchased, builds upon this foundation, adding Navigate on Autopilot, automatic lane changes, Summon, and more advanced features managed through the car’s touchscreen. Let’s dive deeper into each step and the nuances involved!

Understanding Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD)

Before we jump into the how-to, it’s crucial to understand what Autopilot and FSD actually are. Autopilot is Tesla’s advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) designed to automate some driving tasks, reducing driver workload. It fundamentally comprises two core features:

Traffic-Aware Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically accelerating and braking as needed.
Autosteer: Provides steering assistance within a clearly marked lane, keeping the vehicle centered.

Full Self-Driving (FSD), on the other hand, is a more comprehensive suite of features that aims to provide complete autonomy (though Tesla emphasizes that it still requires active driver supervision). FSD includes:

Navigate on Autopilot: Automatically navigates from on-ramp to off-ramp on highways, including suggesting and making lane changes and navigating interchanges.
Automatic Lane Changes: Changes lanes automatically while driving on the highway.
Autopark: Automatically parks the vehicle in parallel or perpendicular parking spaces.
Summon: Allows the vehicle to automatically maneuver in and out of tight spaces using the Tesla mobile app.
Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control: Automatically slows down and stops for detected traffic lights and stop signs.
FSD Beta: Tesla’s experimental self-driving software, continuously evolving with over-the-air updates.

Important Note: Both Autopilot and FSD require active driver supervision. You must remain alert and ready to take control of the vehicle at any time. Tesla monitors driver attention using cameras and sensors, and repeated warnings for inattentiveness can lead to temporary suspension of Autopilot features.

Step-by-Step Guide to Activating Autopilot

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to engage Autopilot:

Ensure the conditions are right: Autopilot works best on clearly marked highways and roads with well-defined lane markings. Avoid using Autopilot in heavy rain, snow, fog, or on roads with poor visibility.
Set your desired speed: Use the right scroll wheel on the steering wheel to set your desired cruising speed.
Engage Traffic-Aware Cruise Control: Push the gear selector lever (the stalk on the right side of the steering wheel) downward once. This activates Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, which will maintain your set speed and a safe following distance from the car in front of you.
Engage Autosteer: After activating Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, pull the gear selector lever downward a second time quickly. The steering wheel icon on the instrument panel will turn blue, indicating that Autosteer is now engaged. You will also likely hear a subtle chime.
Keep your hands on the wheel: Tesla requires drivers to keep their hands on the wheel while using Autopilot. The car uses sensors to detect torque on the steering wheel. If you don’t apply slight pressure periodically, you’ll receive a visual and audible warning to take control. Repeated warnings will lead to temporary Autopilot deactivation.

Activating and Customizing Full Self-Driving (FSD) Features

If you’ve purchased FSD, here’s how to access its additional features:

Navigate to the Autopilot settings: On the touchscreen, tap “Controls,” then “Autopilot.”
Enable the FSD features you want to use: You’ll see a list of available FSD features, such as Navigate on Autopilot, Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control, and Automatic Lane Changes. Toggle the switches to enable the features you want.
Customize Navigate on Autopilot: Within the Navigate on Autopilot settings, you can customize how aggressively the system changes lanes, how early it prompts you for exits, and whether it requires confirmation for lane changes. Experiment with these settings to find what suits your driving style.
Understanding FSD Beta: If you’re participating in the FSD Beta program, you’ll receive software updates that continuously improve the system’s capabilities. Be aware that FSD Beta is still under development and may exhibit unexpected behavior. Always remain vigilant and ready to take control.

Tips for a Smooth Autopilot Experience

Learn to anticipate: While Autopilot is helpful, it’s not perfect. Be proactive and anticipate potential issues, such as sudden lane changes by other drivers or unclear road markings.
Stay aware of your surroundings: Don’t rely solely on Autopilot. Continuously monitor your surroundings and be prepared to intervene if necessary.
Experiment and learn: Take the time to familiarize yourself with Autopilot and FSD in different driving conditions. The more you understand how the system works, the better you’ll be able to use it safely and effectively.
Keep your software updated: Tesla regularly releases software updates that improve Autopilot and FSD. Make sure your car is always running the latest software to take advantage of the latest features and bug fixes.

Troubleshooting Common Autopilot Issues

Autopilot disengages frequently: This can be caused by poor road markings, heavy rain, snow, or other factors that interfere with the car’s sensors. Try cleaning the cameras and sensors, and avoid using Autopilot in challenging conditions.
Autosteer is wobbly or jerky: This can be due to uneven road surfaces or strong crosswinds. Try reducing your speed and keeping a firmer grip on the steering wheel.
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control is too aggressive: Adjust the following distance setting in the Autopilot menu to increase the distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you.
The car is drifting out of the lane: Ensure that the cameras and sensors are clean and unobstructed. Also, check the tire pressure, as low tire pressure can affect the car’s handling.

FAQs About Tesla Model 3 Autopilot and FSD

1. How do I know if my Tesla Model 3 has Autopilot?

All Tesla Model 3 vehicles come standard with basic Autopilot. You can confirm this in the car’s software menu under “Controls” then “Autopilot”. Enhanced Autopilot or Full Self-Driving (FSD) are optional packages that can be purchased separately.

2. What’s the difference between Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, and Full Self-Driving (FSD)?

Autopilot includes Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer. Enhanced Autopilot (no longer available for purchase directly, but may be included in older vehicles) added Navigate on Autopilot, Automatic Lane Changes, Autopark, and Summon. FSD builds upon Enhanced Autopilot with Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control and the experimental FSD Beta software.

3. Can I upgrade my Tesla Model 3 to Full Self-Driving (FSD) after purchase?

Yes, you can purchase FSD as a software upgrade at any time through the Tesla mobile app or your Tesla account. The price of FSD can vary, so check the latest pricing on Tesla’s website.

4. Does Autopilot work on all roads?

Autopilot is primarily designed for use on highways and well-marked roads. It may not work effectively on roads with poor lane markings, heavy traffic, or challenging weather conditions.

5. Does FSD make my Tesla Model 3 fully autonomous?

No. Despite the name, FSD is not a fully autonomous system. It requires active driver supervision and intervention. You must always be ready to take control of the vehicle.

6. How does Tesla monitor driver attention while using Autopilot?

Tesla uses a combination of cameras and sensors to monitor driver attention. The interior camera focuses on the driver’s face, and the sensors detect torque on the steering wheel. If the system detects that the driver is not paying attention, it will issue warnings.

7. What happens if I ignore the Autopilot warnings?

If you repeatedly ignore Autopilot warnings, the system will temporarily disable Autopilot features for the remainder of the drive. Repeated offenses can lead to more permanent restrictions.

8. Can I use Autopilot in rain or snow?

Autopilot may not function reliably in heavy rain, snow, or fog. Reduced visibility and obscured lane markings can interfere with the car’s sensors.

9. How do I calibrate the cameras on my Tesla Model 3?

The cameras typically calibrate automatically during normal driving. If you suspect that the cameras are not properly calibrated, you can try driving on a straight, well-marked road for a few miles. If the issue persists, contact Tesla Service.

10. Is it safe to let go of the steering wheel while using Autopilot?

No. It is never safe to let go of the steering wheel while using Autopilot. Tesla requires drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and actively monitor the system.

11. How often does Tesla update Autopilot and FSD?

Tesla frequently releases software updates that improve Autopilot and FSD. The frequency of updates varies, but you can typically expect to receive several updates per year.

12. Where can I find more information about Tesla Autopilot and FSD?

The best resources for learning more about Tesla Autopilot and FSD are the Tesla website, the Tesla Model 3 owner’s manual, and Tesla’s official YouTube channel. You can also find helpful information in online Tesla forums and communities.

Embrace the future of driving responsibly, and happy piloting!