How to Put Tesla 3 in Tow Mode: Step-by-Step Instructions

If you’re a Tesla Model 3 owner, you might find yourself in a situation where you need to have your vehicle towed. But before you call the tow truck, it’s crucial to understand how to put your Tesla Model 3 in tow mode. This crucial step ensures your car is towed safely and without damaging its sensitive electric drivetrain.

Why is Tow Mode Important for a Tesla Model 3?

Unlike traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, electric cars like the Tesla Model 3 have a unique drivetrain that requires special attention during towing. The electric motors and battery pack are delicate components that can be damaged if the car is towed incorrectly.

Towing a Tesla Model 3 in standard mode can cause:

• Damage to the electric motors: The motors can overheat and suffer irreparable damage if they are forced to rotate while the car is being towed.
• Battery damage: The battery pack might be subjected to excessive strain, leading to reduced capacity or even permanent damage.
• Damage to the transmission: The transmission might be damaged if it’s not properly disengaged during towing.

Entering tow mode ensures that these components are protected, allowing for a safe and secure towing experience.

How to Put Your Tesla Model 3 in Tow Mode: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Park your Tesla Model 3 on a flat surface. This is crucial for ensuring stability during the towing process.

2. Engage the parking brake. This will prevent the car from rolling while you’re preparing it for towing.

3. Turn off the vehicle. Make sure the ignition is in the “Off” position.

4. Locate the tow mode button. The tow mode button is typically located on the touchscreen display.

5. Select “Tow Mode” on the touchscreen. This will engage the tow mode settings, disengaging the drivetrain and ensuring safe towing.

6. Confirm the tow mode is activated. Once you’ve selected tow mode, the touchscreen will display a confirmation message indicating that the car is ready for towing.

7. Inform the tow truck driver. Let the tow truck driver know that the vehicle is in tow mode, so they can safely attach the tow truck to your Tesla.

Essential Tips for Towing Your Tesla Model 3

• Use a flatbed tow truck: A flatbed tow truck is the safest and most recommended option for towing a Tesla Model 3. This type of tow truck lifts the car entirely, minimizing the risk of damage to the drivetrain.

• Avoid towing with the wheels on the ground: Towing your Tesla Model 3 with its wheels on the ground can severely damage the electric motors and transmission.

• Keep the tow speed low: Maintaining a slow towing speed will help prevent excessive strain on the car’s components.

• Minimize the towing distance: If possible, try to minimize the distance your Tesla Model 3 needs to be towed. This will further reduce the risk of damage.

• Consult your owner’s manual: Your Tesla Model 3 owner’s manual will have detailed instructions and recommendations for towing your vehicle. Always refer to these guidelines for the most up-to-date information.

Towing a Tesla Model 3: Understanding the Risks

While tow mode significantly reduces the risk of damage, it’s important to acknowledge that towing an electric car still carries some inherent risks.

• Battery drain: Even with tow mode engaged, the battery will still experience some drain due to the car’s onboard systems.

• Potential for damage: Despite the safety features of tow mode, there’s still a slight chance of damage to the drivetrain if the towing process is not performed correctly.

• Limited towing capacity: Tow truck drivers should be aware of the Tesla Model 3’s weight and towing capacity limitations.

Beyond Tow Mode: Additional Considerations for Towing a Tesla Model 3

• Charging the battery: Before towing, make sure the battery is at least 50% charged. This will help ensure that the car’s systems have enough power to operate during the towing process.

• Disabling Autopilot: Before towing, it’s essential to disable Autopilot and all other driver assistance features. These features rely on the drivetrain and could malfunction during towing.

• Communication is key: Maintain clear communication with the tow truck driver throughout the process. Let them know about any specific concerns or instructions.

A Final Note on Towing Your Tesla Model 3:

While towing a Tesla Model 3 might seem daunting, understanding how to put it in tow mode and following the essential tips will ensure a safe and secure towing experience. Remember, communication with a qualified tow truck driver and consulting your owner’s manual for specific instructions are key to minimizing risks and protecting your car’s valuable components.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Can I tow my Tesla Model 3 with a regular tow truck?

While it is possible to tow a Tesla Model 3 with a regular tow truck, it is strongly recommended to use a flatbed tow truck. This is because regular tow trucks can damage the car’s drivetrain by pulling it from the rear wheels.

2. How long can I tow my Tesla Model 3 in tow mode?

There’s no specific time limit for towing in tow mode. However, it’s best to minimize the towing distance to reduce the risk of battery drain and potential damage.

3. What happens if I tow my Tesla Model 3 without engaging tow mode?

Towing a Tesla Model 3 without engaging tow mode can cause serious damage to the electric motors, battery pack, and transmission. This is because the drivetrain will be forced to rotate while the car is being towed, leading to excessive strain and potential failure.

4. Can I tow my Tesla Model 3 myself?

It’s generally not recommended to tow a Tesla Model 3 yourself. Towing requires specialized equipment and expertise to ensure the safety of the vehicle and the tow truck driver. It’s best to leave this task to a professional tow truck company.