How to Activate Autopilot on Tesla Model 3: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting behind the wheel of a Tesla Model 3 comes with an exciting feature: Autopilot. This advanced driver-assistance system can make your drives smoother and less stressful by handling steering, acceleration, and braking on highways. But if you’re new to Tesla or just picked up a Model 3, you might wonder how to activate Autopilot safely and effectively.

Activating Autopilot isn’t complicated, but it does require understanding a few key steps and safety precautions. Knowing exactly how to engage this feature will help you get the most out of your Tesla’s capabilities while staying in control. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a road trip enthusiast, mastering Autopilot can transform your driving experience.

Understanding Tesla Autopilot

Tesla Autopilot offers advanced driver-assistance technology designed to enhance your driving experience. Knowing its capabilities and limitations ensures you use it confidently and responsibly.

What Is Autopilot in Tesla Model 3?

Autopilot in the Tesla Model 3 combines adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology to automate steering, acceleration, and braking on compatible roads. It maintains a safe distance from vehicles ahead and keeps the car centered within lane markings. Autopilot requires your active supervision and does not replace attentive driving. It operates primarily on highways and well-marked roads, responding dynamically to traffic conditions to support safer and more relaxed driving.

Key Features of Tesla Autopilot

• Traffic-Aware Cruise Control adjusts your Model 3’s speed to match surrounding traffic while maintaining a preset distance.
• Autosteer keeps your vehicle centered within its lane by controlling steering inputs during highway driving.
• Navigate on Autopilot guides your car from on-ramp to off-ramp, including automated lane changes and highway interchanges, provided you enable this feature.
• Auto Lane Change assists with safe lane transitions when you signal, reducing manual steering efforts.
• Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control detects and responds to traffic signals and stop signs by slowing and stopping the vehicle automatically, only where this feature is active.
• Summon moves your Model 3 in and out of tight parking spaces remotely, using your Tesla app or key fob.

Each feature functions within specific operational design domains, requiring constant driver attention and readiness to take over. Understanding these features helps you maximize Autopilot’s benefits while maintaining safety on the road.

Preparing Your Tesla Model 3 for Autopilot

Get your Tesla Model 3 ready to use Autopilot by confirming essential updates and settings. You’ll ensure the system functions safely and smoothly by following these steps.

Ensuring Software Is Up to Date

Start by checking your car’s software version in the Controls menu under Software. Tesla regularly issues updates that improve Autopilot features and safety protocols. Connect your vehicle to Wi-Fi for faster downloads. Install the latest firmware promptly, as outdated software can limit Autopilot functionality or cause errors.

Checking Hardware Requirements

Verify that your Model 3 has the necessary hardware for Autopilot. Standard driver-assistance sensors include cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors. Models produced after mid-2017 include this hardware by default. If your vehicle was manufactured earlier or lacks Full Self-Driving (FSD) hardware, some Autopilot features may not activate. Consult Tesla’s support or your vehicle’s specifications to confirm hardware compatibility.

Activating Autopilot in Settings

Open the Controls menu and select Autopilot. Enable both Autosteer and Traffic-Aware Cruise Control by toggling the switches. Adjust settings such as following distance to suit your preferences. Review Tesla’s Autopilot terms and conditions, as activating the system confirms your acknowledgment of active supervision requirements while driving. Once set, you can engage Autopilot on compatible roads by double-tapping the right stalk on your steering column.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Activate Autopilot on Tesla Model 3

Activate Autopilot by properly enabling its features, engaging it correctly while driving, and mastering the steering wheel controls. Follow these steps to ensure a safe and efficient experience.

Enabling Autopilot Features

Access the Autopilot settings from the touchscreen. Tap Controls > Autopilot. Toggle on “Autosteer” and “Traffic-Aware Cruise Control” to enable core Autopilot functions. Confirm your acceptance of Tesla’s terms regarding active driver supervision. Verify that software updates are installed; otherwise, activate the features after updating. Your Tesla Model 3 must have the required hardware, such as cameras and sensors, for these options to be available.

Engaging Autopilot While Driving

Accelerate to at least 18 mph (29 km/h) to engage Autopilot. Pull the right stalk on the steering column down twice consecutively to activate Autosteer and Traffic-Aware Cruise Control simultaneously. Monitor the green Autopilot icon on the dashboard to confirm activation. You can also adjust the set speed using the scroll wheel on the steering wheel. Remember that you must keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road at all times.

Using Autopilot Controls on the Steering Wheel

Use the left scroll wheel to adjust the distance to the vehicle ahead, modifying the adaptive cruise control gap. Use the right scroll wheel to change the set cruising speed within the Autopilot system. Press the right scroll wheel to cancel Autopilot manually or pull the brake pedal to deactivate the system automatically. Keep frequent physical inputs to the steering wheel to signal driver engagement and prevent Autopilot disengagement warnings.

Tips for Safe Use of Autopilot

Using Autopilot safely ensures you maximize its benefits while maintaining control. Follow these key practices to keep your Tesla Model 3 operating securely.

Monitoring the Road and Hands on the Wheel

Constantly monitor the road by keeping your eyes on the driving environment. Always keep your hands on the wheel, ready to take control instantly. Tesla’s system detects hand presence and will issue alerts if you neglect steering input for too long. Staying attentive prevents unexpected incidents and keeps Autopilot operating as intended.

Understanding Autopilot Limitations

Recognize that Autopilot works best on highways and well-marked roads under favorable weather conditions. It does not replace full driver responsibility and can struggle with construction zones, sharp curves, or complex traffic scenarios. Autopilot performs adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping but does not handle all driving situations. Understanding these limits ensures you maintain proper oversight.

When to Disengage Autopilot

Disengage Autopilot immediately when road conditions become unclear, weather reduces visibility, or if the system signals any warnings. Manually take control during heavy traffic, urban streets, or when approaching intersections and exit ramps. Prompt intervention safeguards you and other road users by preventing system errors caused by environmental challenges.

Conclusion

Activating Autopilot on your Tesla Model 3 opens up a new level of convenience and ease during your drives. By following the right steps and staying attentive, you can confidently use this advanced feature to enhance your driving experience. Remember, Autopilot is a powerful tool designed to assist—not replace—you. Staying informed and cautious ensures you get the most out of your Tesla while keeping safety a top priority. Enjoy the smooth ride and the future of driving technology right at your fingertips.