Ever been stuck trying to figure out how to put your Tesla into tow mode? You’re not alone! Knowing how to properly engage tow mode is crucial, especially to avoid damaging your vehicle and ensuring it can be safely transported. We’ve got you covered with simple steps to make the process easy peasy.
No key, no tow mode! Once that’s sorted, find the **’Service’** option on the touchscreen, tap on **’Towing,’** and hold the brake. This should activate the tow mode and deactivate the parking brake.
We know it can be a bit nerve-wracking, especially if your Tesla has no power. In that case, you’ll need low voltage power to even get started. It’s just like finding that last piece to your jigsaw puzzle—frustrating but satisfying once the puzzle is complete! So, next time you need to get your Tesla on a tow truck, you’ll know exactly what to do. 🚗🔧
Introduction
Towing a Tesla isn’t something we think about often, but it’s crucial to know how to do it right. Whether the battery is drained, you’re dealing with a flat, or there’s been a collision, activating Tow Mode can be a lifesaver.
Tow Mode makes the car ready to be moved safely, preventing damage. This mode disengages the parking brake, allowing us to move the vehicle manually.
There are steps to follow before we can tow a Tesla. These include making sure the vehicle is in Park and ensuring a key fob is detected.
Always make sure the vehicle is secure before towing to prevent accidents.
In the event of a breakdown on the road, knowing how to engage Tow Mode is essential. It simplifies the process for you, and it also helps emergency services work more efficiently.
| Scenario | Action Needed | Tool Required |
| Dead Battery | Activate Tow Mode | Key Fob |
| Flat Tire | Activate Tow Mode | Key Fob |
| Collision | Secure Area | Key Fob |
Preparation Steps For Tow Mode
Before towing a Tesla, it’s important to ensure safety by taking the proper steps. You need to locate the Tow Mode option on the car’s touchscreen and follow specific instructions.
Ensure Safety Precautions
To start, make sure your Tesla is in Park. This is crucial. Don’t forget to shift into Park. Next, prepare by pressing the brake pedal firmly. Safety first! You don’t want unnecessary movements.
Now, let’s chock the tires. Use wheel chocks to stabilize the car. You can find these devices at most auto parts stores. Once the tires are secure, we can proceed.
High voltage components must be handled carefully. Avoid areas around the rear motor and high voltage areas. These parts are sensitive and dangerous if not handled properly. Keep your hands clear of these spots.🔧
Locate The Tow Mode Option
On the car’s touchscreen, go to Controls > E-Brake & Power Off > Tow Mode. Yes, it’s that simple, but essential for a safe towing experience. Press the Tow Mode button to activate it. This ensures the parking brake does not engage.🅿️
Ensure that a key fob is nearby. Without it, the Transport Mode won’t be available. No power? You’ll need low voltage power. The touchscreen can’t activate Tow Mode if the Model 3 has no power. Keep that in mind!
Fasten the tow eye into the front or rear hitch. Rotate it clockwise until it’s secure. Attach the winch cable or any other towing equipment here. Lastly, read the screen prompt, reminding you of the towing process.⚙️
Activating Tow Mode
To activate tow mode on a Tesla, you need to access a series of specific menus and commands from the vehicle’s touchscreen.
Access The Main Menu
To start, ensure you have the key card. Press the brake pedal and tap the card behind the cup holders. Once it’s detected, the car’s touchscreen will light up. Now, let’s navigate:
- Tap the car icon 🚗 at the bottom left of the screen.
- This opens up a list of options on the control panel.
Having the car on a flat and stable surface is key. Avoid activating tow mode on a slope to prevent any mishaps.
Select Service
After accessing the main menu, select the Service option:
- Look for and tap on “Service” from the list.
- This opens a new screen with different service-related features.
- Ensure that all doors, including the trunk, are securely closed.
Watch out for the neutral position indicators, and keep the brake pressed so the car doesn’t shift unexpectedly.
Enable Tow Mode
This is the critical step. Let’s turn on tow mode to make sure the car can be safely moved:
- Within the Service menu, scroll until you find “Tow Mode”.
- Tap it, and you will see a prompt asking for confirmation.
- Confirm and you’ll notice the Tow Mode symbol appear on the screen.
Be cautious! Activating tow mode disables some main functions like the parking brake.
Here’s a quick checklist for your convenience:
| Action | Completion |
| Ensure the car is on a flat surface | 🔄 |
| Activate main menu | ✅ |
| Go to the service menu | ✅ |
| Enable Tow Mode | ✅ |
Once tow mode is enabled, the Tesla is ready to be towed. Remember to follow all local towing regulations and use the appropriate towing equipment.
Post-Tow Checklist
After towing a Tesla, it’s crucial to ensure that everything is back in order for a safe drive. We’ll cover how to deactivate Tow Mode and what to check on the vehicle itself.
Deactivate Tow Mode
Deactivating Tow Mode is the first step. Without doing this, some features won’t work properly.
- Navigate to Controls: On the touchscreen, go to “Controls” > “Service” > “Towing.”
- Press Tow Mode: Tap “Tow Mode” again to deactivate it.
- Confirm Deactivation: Confirm the deactivation if prompted.
🎧 Pro Tip: Always make sure the vehicle is securely parked and the emergency brake is on before deactivating Tow Mode.
Inspect Vehicle
After deactivating Tow Mode, inspect the vehicle to ensure everything is in working order.
🔧 Check the Tires: Make sure tire pressure is correct. Overinflated or underinflated tires can be dangerous. Inspect for any damage that occurred during towing.
⚙️ Suspension: Verify that the suspension is intact and there is no unusual tilt or sag.
🔧 Body and Chassis: Look for any scratches, dents, or other signs of damage.
🏁 Electronics: Ensure all electronics, especially those controlled via the touchscreen, are functioning properly.
🚗 Tow Eye: If you used a tow eye or dolly, make sure these are removed and stowed correctly.
👷♂️ Tesla Service: If you notice any issues, contact Tesla Service or Tesla Roadside Assistance immediately.
Having a Post-Tow Checklist makes sure the Tesla is safe and ready to hit the road again. Following these steps helps avoid potential issues and maintain vehicle performance.
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