By: Otaiba Ahsan

It can be nerve-wracking washing a car with several automatic features, like Tesla’s. The last thing you want is to damage a part of the vehicle or scratch the paint when trying to clean it. Lucky for you, Tesla has a dedicated mode for when the car needs to be washed. Continue reading for steps on how to use Car Wash Mode on a Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.

Car Wash Mode

When taking your Model 3 or Y to a car wash, you’ll want to ensure that the vehicle is in Car Wash Mode. By doing so, the Tesla will close all windows, lock the charge port, and disable automatic windshield wipers, Sentry Mode, walk-away door locking, as well as parking sensor chimes. In other words, it’ll keep your car from panicking in scenarios where it’s being cleaned.

To enable this feature, tap Controls > Service > Car Wash Mode when in your Tesla. Your vehicle must be stationary and not actively charging to do so. The car will disable the mode if accelerating at a speed of 15 km/h or more, or by touching Exit on the touchscreen.

NOTE: If you’re using an automatic car wash, ensure you Enable Free Roll, which keeps the vehicle in Neutral which is necessary for most automatic wash experiences. This will also prevent your Tesla from applying the parking brake in case you leave the driver’s seat. When in your car, press on the brake pedal and touch Enable Free Roll or simply shift the vehicle into Neutral.

WARNING: If you fail to put your Tesla Model 3 or Y in Car Wash Mode and proceed to clean your vehicle, it may result in damage. For example, both the windshield wipers and charge port are prone to disturbances in these scenarios, and any damage caused by car washes is not covered by warranty.

The Bottom Line

The steps on how to use Car Wash Mode on a Tesla Model 3 and Model Y are straightforward. When in your car, hit Controls > Service > Car Wash Mode. If you’re using an automatic car wash, ensure the vehicle is in Neutral. Lastly, to avoid coming out of Car Wash Mode, do not exceed a speed of 15 km/h. If you do wish to disable it, then simply touch Exit on the touchscreen. Make sure you’re using Car Wash Mode to avoid exterior damage to your Tesla, which is not covered under warranty in this scenario.