The Ultimate Guide: How to Put Tesla Model S in Autopilot

The Tesla Model S is renowned for its cutting-edge technology, and Autopilot is one of its most impressive features. This advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) can handle many aspects of driving, making your journeys more relaxed and efficient. But how do you actually engage Autopilot? This guide will walk you through the steps, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to put your Tesla Model S into Autopilot mode.

Prerequisites: Understanding Autopilot

Before diving into the practical steps, let’s clarify what Autopilot is and what it can (and cannot) do.

Autopilot is not autonomous driving. It’s a sophisticated system that assists you in driving, but it requires your constant attention and supervision. It can handle tasks like:

• Steering: Autopilot can keep your Tesla centered in the lane, even on curves.
• Acceleration and Braking: It can adjust speed to match the flow of traffic and come to a stop if necessary.
• Lane Changing: With the “Autosteer on Curves” feature enabled, Autopilot can transition between lanes smoothly.

However, Autopilot cannot:

• Navigate complex intersections: You’ll need to control the car through intersections and take over when required.
• Drive in extreme weather conditions: Heavy rain, snow, or fog can significantly affect Autopilot’s performance.
• Replace your responsibility as a driver: You must remain alert and ready to take control at any time.

Step 1: Enable Autopilot

Before you can use Autopilot, you need to ensure it’s enabled in your Tesla Model S. This is a one-time setup process:

1. Touchscreen Navigation: Tap the “Controls” icon on your touchscreen.
2. Autopilot: Select “Autopilot” from the menu.
3. Enable Autopilot: Toggle the “Autopilot” switch to the “ON” position.

Now, Autopilot is enabled for your vehicle.

Step 2: Engage Autopilot

With Autopilot enabled, you’re ready to activate it during your drive:

1. Steering Wheel: Locate the Autopilot stalk on the right side of your steering wheel.
2. Engage Autopilot: Gently push the Autopilot stalk forward once. This will activate the Autopilot system.
3. Confirmation: The Tesla Model S will provide a visual and audible confirmation that Autopilot is engaged. You’ll see a steering wheel icon on the instrument cluster, and a chime will sound.

Step 3: Using Autopilot

Once Autopilot is engaged, you can use the following controls:

• Steering: The Tesla Model S will automatically adjust steering to stay centered in the lane. You can still steer manually if needed.
• Acceleration and Braking: Autopilot will control acceleration and braking to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. You can use the accelerator and brake pedals to adjust speed or take over control.
• Lane Changing: Engage the turn signal to initiate a lane change. Autopilot will check for traffic and safely transition to the adjacent lane.

Step 4: Disengaging Autopilot

You can disengage Autopilot at any time by:

• Steering Wheel: Gently pull the Autopilot stalk back towards you.
• Brake Pedal: Pressing the brake pedal will also disengage Autopilot.
• Touchscreen: You can also deactivate Autopilot through the touchscreen by tapping the “Autopilot” icon and toggling the switch to the “OFF” position.

Step 5: Autopilot Features and Settings

Autopilot offers various features and settings that you can customize to suit your preferences:

• Autosteer on Curves: This feature allows Autopilot to navigate curves smoothly. You can enable or disable it through the touchscreen settings.
• Traffic-Aware Cruise Control: This feature keeps your Tesla at a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
• Lane Keeping Assist: This feature helps keep your Tesla centered in the lane and provides gentle steering corrections to prevent drifting.

The Importance of Driver Awareness

While Autopilot can significantly enhance your driving experience, it’s crucial to remember that it’s not a replacement for your attention. You must remain alert and ready to take over control at any time. Autopilot is designed to assist you, not to drive for you.

Beyond Autopilot: Full Self-Driving Capability

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) package offers even more advanced capabilities, including:

• Navigate on Autopilot: FSD can navigate complex intersections, highway interchanges, and even city streets.
• Automatic Lane Changes: FSD can automatically change lanes without the need for turn signals.
• Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control: FSD can automatically stop at traffic lights and stop signs.

While FSD is still under development and not yet available in all regions, it represents Tesla‘s vision of fully autonomous driving.

Embracing the Future of Driving

Autopilot and FSD are transformative technologies that are revolutionizing the way we drive. By understanding how to use these features responsibly and safely, you can unlock the full potential of your Tesla Model S and experience a more comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable driving experience.

What People Want to Know

Q: Is Autopilot available on all Tesla Model S vehicles?

A: Autopilot is standard equipment on all Tesla Model S vehicles produced after October 2014. However, certain features within Autopilot may be subject to subscription fees.

Q: How much does Autopilot cost?

A: Autopilot is included as standard equipment on all new Tesla Model S vehicles. However, some advanced features, such as Autosteer on Curves and Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, may require a subscription.

Q: Is Autopilot safe?

A: Autopilot is a sophisticated system that has been rigorously tested and validated. However, it’s important to remember that it’s not a replacement for your attention and responsibility as a driver. You must remain alert and ready to take control at any time.

Q: Can I use Autopilot in all driving conditions?

A: Autopilot is designed to work in a variety of driving conditions, but it’s not suitable for all situations. It’s important to avoid using Autopilot in extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or fog, or in areas with limited visibility.

Q: How do I update Autopilot software?

A: Tesla regularly releases software updates that improve the performance and functionality of Autopilot. You can update your Tesla Model S’s software wirelessly through the touchscreen.