Starting
When you open a door to enter Model 3, the touchscreen powers on and you can operate all controls. To drive Model 3:
- Press the brake pedal – Model 3 powers on and is ready to drive.
- Select a drive mode – move the drive stalk down for Drive or up for Reverse (see Shifting).
Everything you need to know when driving Model 3 displays on the touchscreen.
Drive Disabled – Requires Authentication
If Model 3 does not detect a key when you press the brake (a key fob or phone key is not detected or two minutes have passed since you used the key card), the touchscreen displays a message telling you that driving requires authentication.
If you see this message, place the key card behind the cup holders where the RFID transmitter can read it. The two-minute authentication period restarts and you can start Model 3 by pressing the brake pedal.
A number of factors can affect whether Model 3 can detect a phone key or key fob (for example, the device’s battery is low or dead and is no longer able to communicate using Bluetooth). Always keep your phone key, key fob, or a key card with you. After driving, your key is needed to restart Model 3 after it powers off. And when you leave Model 3, you must bring your key with you to lock Model 3, either manually or automatically.