Locking your Tesla Model 3 from the outside is a straightforward process that ensures the security of your vehicle. As a technologically advanced car, the Model 3 offers multiple methods to lock it, catering to different scenarios and preferences. These methods range from using the Tesla mobile app to employing the key card that comes with your vehicle. Each method provides a reliable way to secure your car, whether you are stepping away for a quick errand or leaving it parked for an extended period.
Traditional car keys are a thing of the past with Tesla’s innovative approach to vehicle security. When using the key card, you’ll want to hold it against the designated sensor area on the car to lock it. The Tesla mobile app offers another layer of convenience, allowing you to control the locks remotely. This functionality is particularly helpful when you want to ensure your car is locked without being in close proximity to it.
For those who prefer an even more seamless experience, the Model 3’s Walk-Away Door Lock feature can be enabled through the vehicle settings, allowing the car to automatically lock itself as you walk away. This hands-free option adds to the ease of use and peace of mind for Tesla owners. Whichever method you choose, Tesla’s priority on security and user-friendliness is evident, giving you control over how you secure your Model 3.
Understanding the Locking Mechanisms of Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 offers secure and innovative locking options, leveraging technology like the key card, fob, and your smartphone, to ensure convenience and safety for your vehicle.
Key Card and Fob Functionality
Your Tesla Model 3 key card uses short-range radio-frequency identification (RFID) to lock and unlock the vehicle. Hold the key card against the door pillar, and the car’s sensors will authenticate it, allowing access. The key fob, on the other hand, is a more traditional remote that offers similar functionality through button presses. It can lock and unlock doors, open the trunk, and even allow you to find your car by playing a sound.
Phone Key and Bluetooth Connection
The phone key feature works through a Bluetooth connection to your smartphone. Once set up, your Tesla Model 3 automatically unlocks as you approach the vehicle with your Bluetooth-connected phone. To activate this, you need to pair your phone with the vehicle using the Tesla app, which turns your mobile device into a key with a near-field wireless range.
Walk-Away Door Lock Feature
The walk-away door lock feature is a convenient security function that automatically locks your Tesla Model 3 as you walk away with the phone key or fob in your possession. You can activate or deactivate it from the touchscreen display under ‘Locks’ settings, tailoring your Model 3’s locking behavior to your preferences. This feature ensures that your vehicle secures itself in case you forget to manually lock it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Locking Your Model 3 Externally
Locking your Tesla Model 3 from the outside is a straightforward process. Whether you prefer using the Tesla app, a key card, or enabling the walk-away feature, each method offers secure locking with clear lock confirmation indicators.
Using the Tesla App
To lock your Model 3 using the Tesla app, ensure you have an authenticated phone with the app installed and connected to your vehicle.
- Open the Tesla app on your phone.
- Tap ‘Controls’ at the bottom of the screen.
- Press the ‘Lock’ button.
You’ll hear a lock confirmation sound indicating that the doors have been securely locked.
Manual Locking with Key Card or Fob
For manual locking without using the Tesla app:
- Key Card: Hold the key card against the center pillar on the driver’s side. Wait for the side mirrors to fold in and the lock confirmation sound.
- Fob: Press the lock button on your fob and listen for the confirmation sound to confirm the vehicle has locked.
Enabling Walk-Away Locking on Touchscreen
To activate the Walk-Away Door Lock feature:
- Tap the touchscreen to bring up the main menu.
- Select ‘Locks’ from the menu options.
- Toggle the ‘Walk-Away Door Lock’ feature on.
Now, when you walk away with your authenticated phone, your Model 3 will lock automatically.
Customizing Lock Preferences
Your Tesla Model 3 offers various customization options for the locking system to fit your security preferences and lifestyle needs. By adjusting settings in your car’s touchscreen interface, you can enhance convenience and security.
Adjusting Settings for Auto Lock
Auto Lock, also known as Walk-Away Door Lock, is a feature that enables your Model 3 to automatically lock when you leave the vehicle with your authenticated device. To customize this function:
- Navigate to the ‘Locks’ menu on your Tesla touchscreen.
- Here, you can enable the Drive-Away Locking feature which locks your vehicle as soon as it reaches a certain speed.
- Use the Exclude Home checkbox to disable auto-locking at your home location for added convenience.
Security Features and Options
Your Tesla includes various security features:
- Activate Sentry Mode to monitor the surroundings of your Tesla when it’s left unattended.
- Use Pin to Drive to require a pin code before the car can be driven, adding an extra layer of security.
- The Lock Confirmation Sound is an audible signal that confirms your car is locked.
- For added discretion at home, you can exclude audible confirmations by checking the Exclude Home option.
Troubleshooting Common Locking Issues
In case you encounter issues with the locking system:
- Ensure your authenticated device, such as your phone key or key fob, is not out of battery and within range.
- Verify whether the Auto Lock settings weren’t inadvertently altered, paying attention to the Exclude Home feature.
- If Sentry Mode or Pin to Drive settings seem unresponsive, it could be due to a software glitch; restart your car’s touchscreen or consider scheduling a service appointment if issues persist.