How To Turn On Autopilot Tesla

Tesla’s Autopilot system is one of the most advanced driver assistance technologies available in modern vehicles. Designed to make highway driving safer and more convenient, Autopilot uses cameras, ultrasonic sensors, radar, and complex software to assist with steering, acceleration, and braking. While it does not make your Tesla fully autonomous, it significantly enhances the driving experience. Knowing how to turn on Autopilot in a Tesla is crucial for taking full advantage of this innovative feature. This guide will walk you through the process in a simple, step-by-step manner while covering key safety and functionality aspects.

Understanding Tesla Autopilot

What Autopilot Can and Can’t Do

Autopilot is designed to assist the driver, not replace them. It includes features such as Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer. These features help maintain a set speed and follow lane markings but still require driver supervision and interaction.

• Autopilot can keep the vehicle centered in a lane.
• It can adjust speed based on traffic conditions.
• It cannot navigate intersections or stop signs without driver input (unless using Full Self-Driving Beta).

Autopilot vs Full Self-Driving (FSD)

It’s important to distinguish between Tesla’s basic Autopilot and the Full Self-Driving package. While basic Autopilot comes standard on all Teslas, FSD includes advanced features like Navigate on Autopilot, Auto Lane Change, Autopark, and Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control. Regardless of which version you have, the steps to activate Autopilot are largely the same.

Pre-Requirements for Using Autopilot

Software and Hardware Eligibility

Make sure your Tesla is equipped with the required Autopilot hardware and software. All Teslas manufactured after 2016 come with the necessary hardware, but software capabilities depend on the package you purchased.

Calibrate Your Vehicle

New Tesla vehicles or newly installed Autopilot hardware may require calibration. This usually happens automatically during the first 20-25 miles of driving. A notification will appear on the display once calibration is complete and Autopilot features are available.

Enable Autopilot in Settings

• Go to the car’s main screen.
• Tap onControls, thenAutopilot.
• Toggle onAutosteer (Beta)andTraffic-Aware Cruise Control.
• Accept the disclaimers and terms.

After enabling Autopilot from settings, you can use the stalk or gear lever to activate it while driving.

How to Turn On Autopilot While Driving

Step-by-Step Activation

Activating Autopilot is easy and can be done while the car is in motion under appropriate conditions.

• Drive on a clearly marked road with visible lane lines.
• Reach a speed of at least 18 mph (Autopilot doesn’t activate at low speeds).
• Pull down the right stalk (gear lever) twice in quick succession.
• You’ll hear a chime, and the Autopilot icon (a blue steering wheel) will appear on the screen.

Indicators Autopilot is Active

• The blue steering wheel icon is visible.
• The lane lines on the screen turn blue.
• You feel the steering wheel gently adjust to stay in the lane.

Disengaging Autopilot

Autopilot can be disengaged at any time by:

• Turning the steering wheel slightly.
• Pressing the brake pedal.
• Pressing the stalk once upward.

Disengaging Autopilot gives you full manual control of the vehicle again. A warning chime and visual cue on the display will confirm deactivation.

Safety Guidelines When Using Autopilot

Keep Hands on the Wheel

Tesla’s system requires the driver to remain alert and keep their hands on the wheel at all times. The car monitors hand pressure and will issue alerts if it doesn’t detect enough steering input.

Pay Attention to the Road

Even with Autopilot active, you must remain fully aware of your surroundings. The system can’t handle every situation and might struggle with complex road layouts, sudden stops, or construction zones.

Respond to Prompts Immediately

If you ignore warnings or fail to apply pressure to the wheel, Autopilot will issue escalating alerts and may eventually slow the vehicle and disengage the system entirely.

Customizing Autopilot Preferences

Adjusting Following Distance

You can control how closely your car follows other vehicles by changing the following distance setting.

• Go toControls > Autopilot.
• Adjust the Following Distance between 1 (close) and 7 (far).

Auto Lane Change

If you have Full Self-Driving or Enhanced Autopilot, you can enable Auto Lane Change to let the car change lanes automatically when you use the turn signal.

Speed Limit Settings

Customize how Autopilot handles speed relative to the posted limit.

• Set an offset (e.g., +5 mph) above the detected speed limit.
• Choose whether to base speed on absolute value or a percentage.

When You Should Not Use Autopilot

Unmarked or Curvy Roads

Autopilot relies on lane markings and clear road visibility. Avoid using it on unmarked roads, sharp curves, or poorly lit areas.

In Severe Weather

Heavy rain, snow, fog, or sun glare can impair the sensors and cameras. If visibility is compromised, drive manually for better safety.

During City Driving

Basic Autopilot is not designed for stop-and-go city traffic with frequent turns, pedestrians, or traffic lights. Always take over in complex urban environments unless you have Full Self-Driving Beta, which is designed for these conditions.

Tips for a Better Autopilot Experience

• Always keep the software up to date.
• Ensure cameras and sensors are clean and unobstructed.
• Practice engaging and disengaging Autopilot in low-traffic environments first.
• Learn the different icons and sounds associated with Autopilot behavior.

Learning how to turn on Autopilot in a Tesla is a simple but powerful way to enhance your driving experience. Whether you’re commuting on a highway or taking a long-distance road trip, Autopilot can reduce fatigue and improve safety when used correctly. Always remember that while Tesla’s technology is advanced, it still depends on the driver’s attention and readiness to take control. By understanding the steps to activate and use Autopilot properly, you’re not only driving smarter but also preparing for the future of autonomous vehicles.