Author: Bob Lin

Accessing Tesla features is easy if you know where those icons are on the touchscreen. Here is a summary of how to use the Tesla touchscreen to quickly control features:

Tap the Car icon to access vehicle settings.

In the Quick Controls, you can adjust lights,

adjust locks

Adjust mirrors

Adjust Wipers

Adjust Steering, Screen bright and more…

From this menu, you can access Driving, Autopilot, Safety and other settings.

In the Climate icon,

adjust the temperature by sliding the temperature bar to left or right.

Tap the Climate icon to access temperature settings.

With temperature settings, you can turn the Climate control on or off.

adjust the climate settings for the front or Rear cabin

Choose where air flows into the front cabin, windshield, face-level, or foot-level vents. You can choose one or more vents.

Adjust the fan speed and direction controls to customize airflow.

and more…

Tap My Apps: For one-touch access to frequently used apps and controls,

For example, Tap the Navigation icon

to enter a destination

You can choose what displays in My Apps by tapping App Launcher.

With the app tray open, touch any app you want to add it to My Apps.

Hols and move it to the My Apps area.

The app you choose displays on top of My Apps.

Tap Recent Apps to Displays the most recently used app(s).

Note: The number of recent apps displayed here depends on how many apps have been added to My Apps. If you add the maximum number of apps to My Apps, only the most recent app displays.

Tap Audio Volume icon

to adjust the volume by sliding the volume bar to left or right.

Adding an app to your Tesla touchscreen for quick access to a feature is simple and quick. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open the Tesla Touchscreen: Start by tapping the screen to wake it up if it’s not already on.
2. Access the Application Launcher: Tap the application launcher icon at the bottom of the screen. This will open the app menu.
3. Browse Available Apps: Scroll through the available apps. Tesla’s app store includes a variety of options, from media players to productivity tools.
4. Select and Install an App: Tap on the app you want to install. A detailed page will open, providing more information about the app. Tap ‘Install’ to add the app to your Tesla.
5. Access Your New App: Once installed, you can find your new app in the app launcher menu. Simply tap to open and start using it.

Pro Tips:

• Keep Your Tesla Updated: Ensure your Tesla’s software is up-to-date to access the latest apps and features.
• Customize Your Home Screen: Arrange your apps on the home screen for quick access to your favorites.

By following these steps, you can easily enhance your Tesla experience with new apps.

If you see the alert APP_w048 on your Tesla, it means Autopilot features are temporarily unavailable. These features may include Autosteer, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, and Lane Departure Warning.

What this alert means:

Autopilot features are currently unavailable on your vehicle. Typically, Autopilot features are restored on your next drive. However, this alert can be triggered for several reasons, including software updates or sensor issues.

What to do:

Check for additional alerts that indicate the cause of this condition. Usually, Autopilot features will be restored on your next drive. If the alert persists across multiple drives, schedule service at your earliest convenience.

Adjusting the climate control settings in your Tesla is simple and efficient. Here’s how you can make your ride more comfortable.

Temperature Adjustment

To adjust the temperature, use the touchscreen on the center console. Tap the temperature control icon and slide to set your desired temperature. You can sync the temperature for both driver and passenger or set them individually for personalized comfort.

Seat Heating

For those chilly days, activate the seat heaters by tapping the seat icon on the climate control screen. You can adjust the heat level to low, medium, or high for both front and rear seats.

Defrosting

To quickly defrost your windows, tap the defrost icon. This will activate both the front and rear defrosters, ensuring clear visibility in no time.

Optimal Use Tips

• For efficient climate control, pre-condition your car using the Tesla app before you start driving. This helps save battery life and keeps your car comfortable.
• In hot weather, set the temperature a few degrees lower and use the “Vent” mode to let out hot air before getting in.
• In cold weather, use seat heaters instead of cranking up the cabin temperature to save energy.

What this alert means:

Wall Connector hardware issue. Possible issues include:

1. Contactor not working
2. Self-test of internal ground fault monitoring circuit failed
3. Thermal sensor disconnected
4. Other hardware component issues

What to do:

An internal issue was detected by the Wall Connector.

1. Try charging again by disconnecting the Wall Connector from the vehicle and reconnecting.
2. If the issue persists, turn OFF the circuit breaker for the Wall Connector, wait 10 seconds, and turn the circuit breaker ON again. Then try reconnecting the Wall Connector to the vehicle.
3. If the issue persists, have an electrician make sure all wires are properly connected and torqued according to the instructions in the Wall Connector Installation Manual.
4. Once your electrician has completed all work and restored power to the Wall Connector, try charging again by reconnecting the Wall Connector to the vehicle.
5. If the issue persists, the Wall Connector requires service.

What this alert means:

Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer are unavailable because the cameras on your vehicle are not fully calibrated.

Your vehicle must maneuver with great precision when features like Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer are active. Before these features can be used for the first time, the cameras must complete an initial self-calibration. Occasionally, one or more cameras can become uncalibrated.

What to do:

Continue to your destination. Your vehicle is OK to drive.

Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer will remain unavailable until camera calibration is complete.

When calibration is complete, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer should be available.

For your convenience, a calibration progress indicator is displayed on the touchscreen. Calibration typically completes after your vehicle has driven 20-25 miles (32-40 km), but the distance varies depending on road and environmental conditions. For example, driving on a straight road with highly visible lane markings helps the cameras calibrate quicker.

If the alert persists and camera calibration has not completed after your vehicle has driven 100 miles (160 km) or more, or Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer remain unavailable despite successful camera calibration, schedule service at your earliest convenience. Your vehicle is OK to drive in the meantime.

What this alert means:

Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer are unavailable because one or more of the front cameras in your vehicle is blocked or blinded by external conditions.

Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer will remain unavailable while a front camera lacks adequate visibility. Cameras may have limited or no visibility due to:

• Dirt or debris on the camera surface.
• Environmental conditions like rain, fog, snow, or dew.
• Bright sunlight or glare from another light source.
• Low or limited light conditions, including unlit or poorly lit roadways at night.
• Condensation (water droplets or mist) on the camera surface.
• Monotonous environmental features, including tunnel walls or highway dividers.

What to do:

Continue to your destination. Your vehicle is OK to drive.

This is often a temporary issue that clears up on its own. If the alert does not clear by the end of your drive:

• Inspect and clean the front camera area at the top center of the windshield before your next planned drive.
• Check the camera surface for condensation, dirt, or other debris and attempt to clear any obstruction.

See Cleaning a Camera for more information on clearing dirt or debris from that area of the vehicle.

Although condensation on the inside of the front camera enclosure cannot be wiped clean, you can usually clear it quicker by following these steps:

1. Pre-condition the cabin with the temperature set to High and A/C turned ON.
2. Turn on the front windshield defroster.

If this alert persists throughout subsequent drives but no front camera obstruction is visible, schedule service at your earliest convenience. Your vehicle is OK to drive in the meantime.

Features may be restored on next drive

What this alert means:

Autopilot features are currently unavailable on your vehicle. Depending on the configuration of your vehicle, Autopilot features that are disabled may include:

• Autosteer
• Traffic-Aware Cruise Control
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Forward Collision Warning
• Lane Departure Warning

What to do:

This alert can be set for several reasons. Check for additional alerts that indicate the cause of this condition.

Typically, Autopilot features are restored on your next drive. If this alert persists across multiple drives, schedule service at your earliest convenience.

1. What are the different models of Tesla cars?

Tesla offers several models:

• Model S: A luxury sedan known for its performance and long range.
• Model 3: A more affordable sedan that has become one of the best-selling electric vehicles.
• Model X: An SUV with unique falcon-wing doors and ample space.
• Model Y: A compact SUV that shares many components with the Model 3.
• Cybertruck: A futuristic all-electric pickup truck.
• Roadster: A high-performance sports car​.

2. How far can a Tesla go on a single charge?

The range varies by model and configuration:

• Model S Long Range: Up to 405 miles.
• Model 3 Long Range: Up to 358 miles.
• Model X Long Range: Up to 360 miles.
• Model Y Long Range: Up to 330 miles​​.
• Model Cybertruck Range Extender: UP to 440 miles
• Model Roadster long Range: UP to 620 miles

3. What is Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD)?

• Autopilot: A suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
• Full Self-Driving (FSD): An upgrade that aims to enable fully autonomous driving. Features include automatic lane changes, navigation on autopilot, auto park, and traffic light and stop sign control. It’s important to note that despite the name, FSD requires driver supervision​ .

4. How much does a Tesla cost?

Prices vary by model and configuration:

• Model 3: Starts around $40,000.
• Model S: Starts around $80,000.
• Model X: Starts around $90,000.
• Model Y: Starts around $50,000.
• Cybertruck: Starts around $81,000
• Roadster: Starts around $200,000 

5. How do Tesla’s charging stations work?

Tesla has its own network of Superchargers, which are fast-charging stations designed for long-distance travel. They can provide up to 200 miles of range in about 15 minutes. Additionally, Tesla owners can charge at home using a Wall Connector or other compatible charging solutions

Please view this step by step video:

Muscle cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions of one or more muscles, which can be quite painful. Here are some common causes and solutions to fix them:

Common Causes of Muscle Cramps

1. Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can lead to muscle cramps.
2. Electrolyte Imbalance: Low levels of minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium.
3. Muscle Overuse: Intense or prolonged exercise can cause muscles to cramp.
4. Poor Blood Circulation: Reduced blood flow can cause cramps, often occurring during inactivity.
5. Nerve Compression: Spinal nerve compression can cause cramps in the legs.
6. Mineral Deficiency: Insufficient intake of essential minerals.
7. Medications: Some medications can deplete minerals, leading to cramps.
8. Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disease, and peripheral artery disease can cause cramps.

How to Fix Muscle Cramps

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during and after exercise.
2. Balance Electrolytes: Include electrolyte-rich foods in your diet, like bananas and yogurt.
3. Stretch and Massage: Stretch the affected muscle and massage it to relax.
4. Heat and Cold Therapy: Use a warm towel or heating pad, or apply a cold pack to the sore area.
5. Good Nutrition: Ensure a balanced diet with sufficient vitamins and minerals.
6. Proper Footwear: Wear supportive shoes to prevent muscle strain.
7. Regular Exercise: Exercise regularly to improve muscle health and circulation.
8. Review Medications: Consult your doctor if you suspect medication-induced cramps.

How to Prevent Muscle Cramps

1. Stay Hydrated:
   • Drink Plenty of Water: Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day, especially before, during, and after physical activity. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day.
   • Monitor Fluid Intake: Increase your water intake in hot weather or during strenuous exercise.
2. Balance Electrolytes:
   • Eat Electrolyte-Rich Foods: Include foods high in potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium in your diet. Examples include bananas, oranges, spinach, yogurt, nuts, and seeds.
   • Electrolyte Supplements: Consider electrolyte supplements if you engage in intense physical activities that cause excessive sweating.
3. Regular Exercise and Stretching:
   • Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Always warm up before exercise and cool down afterward. Gentle stretching can help prepare your muscles and reduce the risk of cramps.
   • Regular Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise to improve muscle strength and flexibility. Avoid sudden increases in the intensity or duration of workouts.
4. Proper Nutrition:
   • Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet with adequate vitamins and minerals to support muscle health.
   • Magnesium and Calcium: Ensure your diet includes sufficient magnesium (found in leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains) and calcium (found in dairy products, fortified plant milks, and green leafy vegetables).
5. Adequate Rest:
   • Rest and Recovery: Give your muscles time to rest and recover, especially after intense workouts.
6. Proper Footwear:
   • Supportive Shoes: Wear supportive shoes that fit well to reduce muscle strain, especially during exercise.
7. Healthy Lifestyle Habits:
   • Avoid Excessive Alcohol and Caffeine: These can contribute to dehydration.
   • Avoid Sitting or Standing for Long Periods: If your job requires long periods of sitting or standing, take breaks to move around and stretch.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you experience frequent or severe muscle cramps that do not improve with these measures, consider consulting a healthcare provider. Persistent cramps may indicate an underlying medical condition that needs to be addressed.

Please view this step by step video: