Tesla Remote Start: The Full Rundown
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Owning a Tesla includes taking advantage of many advanced features; among them is Tesla remote start. Because Tesla is an electric vehicle (EV), this functionality is somewhat different from what you’d find in a conventionally powered car. In addition, given the automaker’s flair for uniqueness, there are some aspects of Tesla remote start you might not be familiar with, even if you already drive a Tesla.
Let’s explore what this all means.
Tesla Remote Start: The Basics
In a conventional vehicle with an internal combustion engine, remote start allows a car’s owner to start their automobile remotely. This is typically done using a key fob or smartphone app. When activated, the remote start warms up or cools down the cabin’s temperature.
EVs don’t require a “start-up”; they are either on or off, like an appliance or other electrical gear. And to be technical, an electric car is almost always on (assuming it has battery power). It’s the drivetrain that’s either on or not. This also applies to the Tesla Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X.
As a result, the Tesla remote start feature is more about preparing the interior for driver and passenger use. This is called cabin pre-conditioning. During the winter, open the Tesla mobile app and select “climate.” You can turn on the heat and separately activate the defroster as needed. During warmer months, press the fan icon on the app home screen. The temperature can be adjusted via the climate setting.
In addition, the Tesla app has other features, including opening the trunk/hatch and the frunk (front trunk). Owners can also activate the exterior lights and horn to locate their Teslas, a handy feature, especially in a crowded parking lot.
The guest driver feature is one of the most interesting elements of Telsa remote start. Through the app, an owner can give someone driving access to their Tesla. There’s no need for this person to have a key fob or key card. The owner presses “start” on the Tesla app, and the temporary driver has two minutes to drive away and use the car. There are many uses for this feature, including if the owner is traveling and needs someone to move the vehicle.
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Benefits of Using Tesla Remote Start
There are many advantages to using Tesla remote start. To begin with, remotely heating or cooling the car is the ultimate convenience. There’s no sitting on hot seats or grabbing a sizzling steering wheel, nor do you have to worry about staying buttoned up in a chilly cabin.
Arguably, greater safety is the most important benefit of Tesla’s remote start. Remotely locking (and unlocking) your Tesla ensures your vehicle is secure (or readily accessible). There’s no worrying about unauthorized vehicle access. Plus, being able to locate your car quickly can be comforting at night or while parked in a desolate or less secure area.
How to Set Up Tesla Remote Start
Setting up the Tesla remote start feature is straightforward and only requires a few steps. Start by downloading the Tesla mobile app on your smartphone. It’s available on the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store (for Android users). Once the app is installed, you’ll need to log in using your Tesla account credentials. After logging in, go to the “controls” menu to access the guest drive “start” feature and other functionality.
Tips for Maximizing the Functionality of Tesla Remote Start
There are a few hacks to get the most out of the Tesla remote start feature and related uses. Set your phone for automatic app updating to ensure you’re using the latest version of the Tesla mobile app. Tesla regularly rolls out updates to enhance functionality and security. Not staying current may impact the functionality of the app.
Bluetooth capability is integral to using the Tesla app and remote start. Without this connectivity, you’ll have to rely on a key fob or key card (and won’t have any remote functionality). And when you’re out of Bluetooth range, you’ll need a strong cellular or Wi-Fi signal for a good internet connection.
Common Issues with Tesla Remote Start and Troubleshooting Tips
As with most technologies, Tesla’s remote start has its share of problems. After all, no system is perfect. That said, there are simple steps to take if the feature isn’t working as expected or won’t work at all. Here are a few troubleshooting steps to consider.
- Connectivity Issues: Lack of a Bluetooth or internet connection is the most common cause of Tesla remote start problems. Try moving closer to the vehicle if this is practical to ensure better Bluetooth connectivity. In extreme cases, you may need to delete the Bluetooth pairing from the car and phone and create a new pairing. In addition, check the internet connection and switch between cellular and Wi-Fi for a more solid signal.
- App Not Recognizing Vehicle: You may also encounter a situation where the Tesla app isn’t recognizing your car. The first remedy is to log out of the app and then sign back in. If this doesn’t solve the issue, uninstall the app. You’ll need to reinstall the app and log back in. Usually, one of these corrections will solve the trouble.
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FAQs: Tesla Remote Start
What is Tesla remote start?
Tesla’s remote start feature allows owners to pre-condition the interior cabin temperature of their Tesla vehicles using the mobile app. It turns on climate control and can activate the defroster before entering the car. In addition, the feature provides keyless access to guest drivers.
How do you set up Tesla remote start?
Download the Tesla mobile app on your smartphone and log in using your Tesla account details. Go to the “controls” menu within the app to access all the features.
What are the benefits of Tesla remote start?
Key benefits are convenience from pre-conditioning the interior temperature before entering the vehicle. It also lets owners remotely lock and unlock their Tesla for added security. Other features include locating the car and giving temporary driving access to others.
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