By: Otaiba Ahsan

When looking at the exterior of a Tesla, you’ve probably noticed the numerous cameras around the car. It’s well known that these are used primarily for safety features and for the Autopilot system to work. However, a camera that often goes unnoticed is the one in the interior cabin. What does the interior cabin camera in your Tesla Model 3 and Model Y do? Continue for more.

Cabin Camera

Your Model 3 and Y may be equipped with a cabin camera that’s located above the rear-view mirror. Why have a camera in the cabin? It’s in fact used to determine driver inattentiveness when Autopilot is engaged. For example, it’ll provide audible alerts to remind you to keep your eyes on the road.

Privacy Concerns

Now that we know the purpose of the interior cabin camera, it’s important to address the topic of privacy. Of course, owners may feel uncomfortable knowing there’s a camera in their car facing them and their passengers at all times.

Tesla is aware of these concerns and have addressed them. By default, images and video from the camera do not leave the car and aren’t transmitted to anyone, including Tesla. However, if you have data sharing enabled and a safety-critical event occurs such as a collision, then your Model 3 or Y will share a short video clip with Tesla. The reason for this is that it’ll help them improve the intelligence features that rely on the cabin camera and enhance any future safety features. Also, data may be shared if diagnostics are required on cabin camera functionality.

NOTE: The interior cabin camera doesn’t perform facial recognition or any other methods of identity verification. Moreover, Tesla has ensured that each cabin camera is not associated with your VIN to further protect privacy.

Changing Data Sharing Preferences

If you’d like to adjust your data-sharing preferences or check what it’s currently set to, you can do so when in your car. Tap Controls > Software > Data Sharing > Allow Cabin Camera Analytics, and you can change this setting at any time.

NOTE: Keep the camera lens clean and free of obstructions. Regularly check for any buildup of dirt or dust and wipe it down with a clean cloth. This is especially important if you’re a frequent Autopilot user. Ensure you don’t use chemical-based or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the surface of the camera lens.

The Bottom Line

So, what does the interior cabin camera in your Tesla Model 3 and Model Y do? It’s used to determine driver inattentiveness when Autopilot is engaged, and to provide audible alerts to remind you to keep your eyes on the road. If you’re worried about privacy, you can configure your data-sharing settings at any time.