Where Is Summon in the Tesla App? Your Complete Guide

The Summon feature in the Tesla app has seen a bit of a navigational shuffle over the years, leading to occasional confusion. Currently, you can find Summon (and its enhanced sibling, Smart Summon) within the Tesla app by navigating to:

1. Open the Tesla App on your smartphone.
2. Tap on “Car” at the bottom of the screen.
3. Look for the “Summon” button, generally located amongst the other vehicle control icons. You might need to scroll down slightly to see it, depending on your screen size and app version.
4. If you have Enhanced Autopilot (EAP) or Full Self-Driving (FSD), you’ll find both “Summon” and “Smart Summon” options available to select.

Now that we’ve located the feature, let’s dive deeper with some frequently asked questions to help you master Summon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tesla Summon

Here are 12 essential FAQs about Tesla Summon to enhance your understanding and ensure safe and effective use.

What is the difference between Summon and Smart Summon?

Summon is the original, more basic version of the feature. It allows you to move your Tesla forward or backward in a straight line, making it useful for pulling into or out of tight parking spaces. Think of it as a remote control for very short distances. You need to be relatively close to the car, typically within sight, and hold down a button in the app for the duration of the movement.

Smart Summon, on the other hand, is a more advanced feature that leverages the car’s autopilot cameras and sensors. It allows your Tesla to navigate more complex environments, such as maneuvering around obstacles in a parking lot, and even coming to you from a greater distance (subject to limitations and local laws). You can essentially “summon” your car to your location using the Tesla app as a target.

Which Tesla models have Summon and Smart Summon?

All Tesla models (Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y) are capable of using the Summon feature. However, access to Smart Summon depends on whether the vehicle is equipped with Enhanced Autopilot (EAP) or Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability. If your Tesla has neither EAP nor FSD, you will only have access to the basic Summon feature.

How do I activate Summon and Smart Summon?

To activate Summon, first ensure your car is in Park (P) and the key is detected. Then, in the Tesla app, navigate to the “Car” tab and tap “Summon”. Select either “Summon” or “Smart Summon” depending on your car’s capabilities and your desired level of control. Follow the on-screen instructions within the app. With basic Summon, you’ll hold down the forward or reverse button to move the car. With Smart Summon, you’ll use the “Come to Target” feature and guide the car towards your specified location.

What are the safety precautions I should take when using Summon or Smart Summon?

Safety is paramount when using Summon or Smart Summon. Always be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to take immediate control if necessary.

• Maintain a clear line of sight: Always keep the vehicle within your sight while it is moving.
• Be ready to stop: Be prepared to use the stop button in the app if the vehicle encounters an unexpected obstacle or situation.
• Supervise the movement: Treat Summon and Smart Summon as driver assistance features, not fully autonomous systems. You are responsible for the car’s movement.
• Use in safe environments: Only use Summon and Smart Summon in controlled environments, such as private parking lots or driveways, away from pedestrian traffic and potential hazards.
• Obey local laws: Adhere to all local laws and regulations regarding the use of remote parking features.

Why is Summon not working on my Tesla?

There are several reasons why Summon or Smart Summon might not be working:

• Software updates: Ensure your Tesla’s software is up-to-date. Outdated software can cause malfunctions.
• GPS signal: Smart Summon requires a strong GPS signal. If the signal is weak or unavailable, the feature may not function correctly.
• Obstacles: The car’s sensors may be detecting obstacles that prevent Summon from initiating. Remove any obstructions and try again.
• Battery level: A low battery level can sometimes disable certain features, including Summon.
• App connectivity: Make sure your Tesla app is properly connected to your car and that you have a stable internet connection on your phone.
• Summon settings: Verify that Summon is enabled in your car’s settings menu (Controls > Autopilot > Summon).
• Parking brake: Ensure the parking brake is fully released.

If you’ve checked all of these and Summon still isn’t working, consider contacting Tesla service for assistance.

Can I use Summon to get my car out of a really tight parking spot?

Yes, Summon is particularly useful for getting your car out of tight parking spots. The basic Summon feature allows you to move the car forward or backward in a straight line, while Smart Summon, if available, can potentially navigate more complex maneuvers to exit the spot. However, remember to always be cautious and supervise the movement.

What happens if Summon encounters an obstacle?

Both Summon and Smart Summon are designed to detect and avoid obstacles. If the car encounters an obstacle, it should automatically stop. However, it is crucial to remain vigilant and be prepared to manually stop the vehicle if necessary. The system is not foolproof and may not detect all obstacles, especially small or low-lying objects.

Is Summon available in all countries?

The availability of Summon and Smart Summon may vary depending on local laws and regulations. Tesla is constantly working to expand the availability of these features to more regions. Check the Tesla website or app for the most up-to-date information on feature availability in your specific country.

How close do I need to be to the car to use Summon and Smart Summon?

With basic Summon, you typically need to be within a relatively short distance of the car, generally within sight and a few meters away. Smart Summon allows for a greater range, but the distance is limited. Tesla specifies a maximum operating distance, and it’s important to stay within that range for safety and proper functionality. The precise range can vary depending on the car’s software version and local regulations.

Can Summon damage my car or other vehicles?

While Summon and Smart Summon are designed to avoid collisions, there is always a risk of damage if the feature is used improperly or if unexpected situations arise. It is essential to follow all safety precautions, supervise the vehicle’s movement, and be prepared to take control at any time. Regularly inspect the area where you plan to use Summon for potential hazards.

Does using Summon drain the battery?

Yes, using Summon does consume battery power. The amount of battery drain will depend on the distance the car travels and the complexity of the maneuvers. For short distances and occasional use, the battery drain is typically minimal. However, frequent or extended use of Summon can noticeably impact your car’s range.

How do I troubleshoot issues with Smart Summon not finding my location?

If Smart Summon is having trouble finding your location or reaching the designated target, try the following troubleshooting steps:

• Ensure a strong GPS signal: Move to an area with a clear view of the sky to improve GPS reception.
• Restart the Tesla app: Closing and reopening the Tesla app can sometimes resolve connectivity issues.
• Recalibrate Autopilot: In your car’s settings, navigate to Controls > Service > Camera Calibration > Calibrate Cameras. This can help improve the accuracy of the car’s sensor readings.
• Check for map updates: Make sure your car’s navigation system has the latest map data. Outdated maps can affect Smart Summon’s ability to navigate.
• Simplify the target location: Try selecting a more easily accessible or less cluttered target location.
• Contact Tesla service: If the problem persists, contact Tesla service for further assistance.

By understanding these FAQs, you can confidently locate and utilize the Summon and Smart Summon features in your Tesla app, enhancing your ownership experience while prioritizing safety and responsible use. Enjoy the convenience of remotely maneuvering your vehicle, but always remember that you are ultimately responsible for its operation.