Author: Bob Lin

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:

Lisbon offers several beautiful spots to watch the sunset, each providing a unique perspective of the city’s landscape. Here are some of the best places:

1. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

• Description: This is the highest viewpoint in Lisbon, offering a panoramic view of the city. It’s a bit of a climb to get there, but the view is absolutely worth it.
• Location: Graça neighborhood

2. Miradouro de Santa Catarina (Adamastor)

• Description: Popular among locals and tourists, this spot has a relaxed vibe with views over the Tagus River and the 25th of April Bridge.
• Location: Santa Catarina neighborhood

3. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

• Description: Located in the Bairro Alto district, this terrace provides a beautiful view of the city, including the São Jorge Castle.
• Location: Bairro Alto

4. Praça do Comércio

• Description: This iconic square by the river offers stunning views of the sunset over the Tagus River. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll as the sun sets.
• Location: Baixa district

5. Belém Tower

• Description: Watching the sunset with the historic Belém Tower in the foreground and the river in the background is a magical experience.
• Location: Belém district

6. Parque Eduardo VII

• Description: From the top of this park, you get a great view of the city leading down to the Tagus River, perfect for sunset watching.
• Location: Near the Marquês de Pombal Square

7. Cais das Colunas

• Description: Located at the waterfront in Praça do Comércio, this spot offers a direct view of the river and is perfect for a quiet sunset experience.
• Location: Baixa district

8. Padrão dos Descobrimentos

• Description: This monument offers a viewpoint that provides a striking sunset view over the river, especially beautiful when combined with the monument itself.
• Location: Belém district

9. Miradouro de Santa Justa

• Description: The top of the Santa Justa Lift offers a great panoramic view of Lisbon and is a fantastic spot to watch the sunset.
• Location: Baixa district

10. Castelo de São Jorge

• Description: Watching the sunset from the castle gives you a wonderful perspective over Lisbon’s red rooftops and the river.
• Location: Alfama district

These locations not only provide beautiful sunset views but also offer an opportunity to experience the charm and history of Lisbon.

Please view this video:

Here are the three ways to open the glovebox in a Tesla Model

1. Using the Touchscreen

• Step 1: Tap the car icon on the bottom left corner of the touchscreen to open the Controls menu.
• Step 2: Locate and tap the ‘Glovebox’ button within the Controls menu. The glovebox will open automatically.

2. Using Voice Commands

• Step 1: Press the right scroll wheel on the steering wheel to activate the voice command system.
• Step 2: Say “Open glovebox.” The glovebox will open in response to this command.

3. Programming a Steering Wheel Button Shortcut

• Step 1: Tap the car icon on the bottom left corner of the touchscreen to open the Controls menu.
• Step 2: Navigate to the ‘Quick Controls’ or similar section where you can customize button functions.
• Step 3: Assign the ‘Open Glovebox’ function to one of the scroll wheels or buttons on the steering wheel.
• Using the Shortcut: Press the assigned button or scroll wheel on the steering wheel to open the glovebox.

These methods offer convenient options to access the glovebox in your Tesla Model.

Please view this step by step:

Taking great photos of fireworks with your smartphone can be challenging but very rewarding. Here are some tips and steps to help you capture the best shots:

1. Preparation

• Location: Find a spot with a clear view of the sky where the fireworks will be launched.
• Tripod: Use a tripod or a stable surface to minimize camera shake. Fireworks photography requires long exposure times, and any movement can result in blurry photos.
• Clean Lens: Make sure your smartphone lens is clean to avoid blurry or hazy photos.

2. Settings and Techniques

Most modern smartphones have advanced camera settings that can be adjusted for better results:

Manual Mode/Pro Mode

• ISO: Set the ISO to a low value (100-200) to reduce noise.
• Shutter Speed: Use a longer shutter speed (1-4 seconds). This allows the camera to capture the full burst of the firework.
• Focus: Set the focus to infinity. This ensures that distant fireworks are in focus.
• Aperture: If your phone allows you to control the aperture, use a small aperture (higher f-number) to ensure a greater depth of field.

Using Fireworks Mode

Some smartphones have a specific “Fireworks” mode in their camera settings. This mode automatically adjusts the settings to capture the best possible fireworks photos.

Additional Tips

• HDR Mode: Avoid using HDR mode as it can create unwanted artifacts in the fireworks.
• Flash: Turn off the flash; it won’t help with fireworks and can ruin the shot.
• Burst Mode: Use burst mode to capture multiple shots in quick succession. You can later select the best shot from the series.
• Live Photos/Short Videos: Some phones have a feature that captures a short video along with the photo. This can be useful for choosing the perfect moment.

3. Timing and Composition

• Anticipate the Burst: Fireworks have a delay between launch and explosion. Anticipate this and start shooting just before they explode.
• Composition: Include some foreground elements like silhouettes of people or landmarks to add context and depth to your photos.
• Experiment with Angles: Try different angles and perspectives to find the most visually appealing shots.

4. Post-Processing

• Use photo editing apps to enhance your photos. Adjusting contrast, brightness, and sharpness can make your fireworks photos pop.
• Apps like Snapseed, Lightroom Mobile, or VSCO offer powerful editing tools.

Step-by-Step Guide for Manual Mode

1. Open the Camera App.
2. Switch to Manual/Pro Mode.
3. Set ISO to 100-200.
4. Set Shutter Speed to 1-4 seconds.
5. Set Focus to Infinity.
6. Turn Off Flash.
7. Mount the phone on a tripod or stable surface.
8. Frame the shot, including some foreground elements if possible.
9. Tap the shutter button just before the firework explodes.
10. Review and Adjust: Check your photos and make adjustments as needed.

By following these tips and steps, you’ll increase your chances of capturing stunning fireworks photos with your smartphone. Enjoy the show and happy shooting!

Please view this step by step video: