Tesla has earned a reputation for infusing its vehicles with innovative features and playful surprises. From high-tech advancements to quirky Easter eggs, the Tesla Model Y stands out as a vehicle that never ceases to amaze. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most intriguing tips and tricks that make the Tesla Model Y a unique driving experience.
Physical Door Release Handles
While it might not be the most secretive feature, the physical door release handles in the Model Y are crucial for safety. Typically, you open the front doors by pressing a button on the door panel grab handle—a seamless and ergonomic process. However, in the event of a dead battery or software issue, this button may fail to operate. To address this, Tesla has incorporated a manual latch below the grab handle. Lifting this latch opens the door, ensuring you can exit the vehicle even in unexpected situations. Though the car emits a warning beep when this manual release is used, it’s reassuring to know you have a reliable backup.
The rear doors also come equipped with a physical release mechanism, though it’s a bit more complex. To access it, you need to remove the rubber lining in the door pocket, pop open a cover, and pull a hidden strap to release the door.
Customizable Rear Door Child Locks
Tesla takes child safety to the next level with its individual rear door child locks. Instead of relying on traditional physical switches, you can control the child locks directly from the infotainment touchscreen. This allows you to lock either the left or right door individually, or both, depending on your needs. It’s a thoughtful feature that offers flexibility and peace of mind for parents with curious little ones.
Walk Away Automatic Door Lock
The Walk Away Automatic Door Lock is another convenience feature that enhances the Tesla experience. While some users find the door handle unlocking system to be a bit finicky, especially when using the Tesla iPhone app as a key, this feature adds a layer of security.
By enabling “Exclude Home,” you can ensure the car remains unlocked when it’s parked at your designated home location. This is particularly useful if you have secure parking or a private garage. However, for those in less secure locations, this feature might not be ideal. It’s all about finding the balance between convenience and security.
Advanced Tire Monitoring
Tesla’s tire pressure monitoring system is more detailed than most, providing not only the pressure of each tire but also the time elapsed since the last reading. While the practical application of this feature may not be immediately apparent, it’s another example of Tesla’s commitment to offering detailed, real-time information to enhance the driving experience.
Customizable Digital Paint Colors
Did you know that aside from the standard Stealth Gray, every paint color for the Model Y comes at an additional cost? Whether you opt for the $1,000 Pearl White or splurge on the $2,000 Ultra Red, these paint options add a personal touch to your Tesla.
For those who prefer something even more unique, many drivers in areas like Los Angeles are turning to wraps to express their individuality. But Tesla doesn’t stop at just the physical appearance. The Colorizer tool in the infotainment system allows you to customize your Tesla’s digital paint color, offering a fun way to personalize your vehicle’s display.
Joe Mode: Quiet Comfort
The Model Y’s Joe Mode is a subtle yet appreciated feature that reduces the volume of various alerts and chimes, making for a quieter ride. This feature, found in the Safety submenu of the infotainment system, is named after a Tesla owner who requested quieter notifications for the sake of his sleeping children. While it doesn’t address all of the interior noises, such as creaky trim, Joe Mode is a thoughtful addition for those who prefer a less intrusive driving experience.
Wheel of Function: Customizable Controls
The left-side steering wheel dial in the Model Y isn’t just for adjusting the audio volume. By pressing and holding the dial, you can access a customizable function of your choice, such as changing the climate control fan speed or adjusting the display brightness.
Alternatively, you can set it to “Ask Each Time,” allowing you to select from a menu of options in real-time. This feature adds another layer of personalization to the driving experience, though it does require taking your eyes off the road momentarily, so use it with caution.
MotorTrend’s 2023 Tesla Model Y Long Range Overview
- Service Life: 12 months/16,454 miles
- Base/As Tested Price: $51,580/$71,630
- Options:
- Full Self-Driving Capability: $15,000
- Seven Seat Interior: $2,500
- Tow Hitch: $1,000
- Deep Blue Metallic Paint: $1,000
- EPA Fuel Economy: 127/117/122 mpg-e; 330-mile range
- Average Miles per kWh: 3.0 miles
- Energy Cost per Mile: $0.12
- Maintenance and Wear: $0.00
- Damage: $0.00
- Days Out of Service/Without Loaner: 0
Delights:
- Clear, balanced audio system
Annoyances:
- Inconsistent phone-as-key functionality
Recalls:
- Autosteer Susceptibility to Misuse
The Tesla Model Y continues to captivate drivers with its unique blend of innovative features and quirky surprises. Whether it’s the practical benefits of its tire monitoring system or the playful customization options in the Colorizer tool, Tesla’s approach to vehicle design stands out in a crowded market. By offering both convenience and a touch of fun, the Model Y exemplifies why Tesla remains at the forefront of the electric vehicle industry.
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