Have you ever wondered how Tesla owners can leave their cars with valets or family members without worrying about their security and privacy?
Or how they can go keyless and use their smartphones to control their cars?
The answer is Tesla valet mode, a feature that allows you to limit the access and performance of your car when you need to leave it with someone else.
But how does Tesla valet mode work without a key? And what are the benefits and drawbacks of using it?
In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about Tesla valet mode, and how you can use it to protect your car and your data.
How to Use Tesla Valet Mode Without a Key?
To use Tesla valet mode without a key, you will need to have the Tesla app on your smartphone.
You will also need to give your key card or key fob to the person who will drive your car, such as the valet or the family member. They will not be able to override valet mode even with the original key.
The only way to deactivate valet mode is by entering the PIN on the touchscreen or on the app.
Here are the steps to use Tesla valet mode without a key:
1. Park your car and put it in the park.
2. Open the Tesla app on your smartphone and tap on Controls.
3. Tap on Valet Mode and choose a four-digit PIN.
4. Give your key card or key fob to the person who will drive your car.
5. To deactivate valet mode, enter the PIN on the touchscreen or the app.
Alternatively, you can also use the touchscreen in your car to activate or deactivate valet mode. To do so, follow these steps:
1. Park your car and tap on your driver profile icon on the top left corner of the touchscreen.
2. Select Valet Mode and enter a four-digit PIN.
3. Give your key card or key fob to the person who will drive your car.
4. To deactivate valet mode, enter the PIN on the touchscreen.
What are the Benefits of Using Tesla Valet Mode Without a Key?
Using Tesla valet mode without a key has several benefits, such as:
1. It provides an extra layer of security and privacy for your car and your data
You can prevent unauthorized access to your car’s functions and data, such as your contacts, navigation history, and calendar events.
You can also lock the glove compartment, front trunk, and rear trunk buttons to secure your personal belongings and valuables.
2. It reduces the risk of accidents or damage to your car
You can limit the maximum speed and acceleration of your car, and disable the Autopilot or FSD features, to prevent reckless or careless driving by the person who drives your car.
You can also disable the touchscreen and voice commands to avoid distractions or confusion.
3. It offers a keyless and convenient experience
You can use your smartphone to activate or deactivate valet mode and lock or unlock your car remotely.
You don’t need to carry a physical key card or key fob with you, which can be lost or stolen.
What are the Drawbacks of Using Tesla Valet Mode Without a Key?
Using Tesla valet mode without a key also has some drawbacks, such as:
1. It requires a stable internet connection and Bluetooth pairing
The app-based control of your car relies on data transmission between your smartphone and your car. If your phone loses signal or battery, you might not be able to get into your car or deactivate valet mode.
Therefore, it is always advisable to have your key card or key fob with you as a backup.
2. It limits some of the features and functions of your car
You might not be able to use some of the features that you paid for, such as the Autopilot or FSD, the Sentry Mode, or Smart Summon.
You might also miss some of the notifications or alerts that your car sends to your smartphone, such as the battery level or the charging status.
3. It might not be compatible with some parking facilities or services
Some parking facilities or services might not accept your key card or key fob as a valid form of identification or payment.
They might also require you to leave your car unlocked or with the key inside, which could compromise your security and privacy.
Does Tesla valet mode require a key?
Yes, whoever is driving the Tesla will need to insert the key card into the central console or use the key fob to start the car while it is in valet mode.
They will not be able to override valet mode even with the original key.
The only way to deactivate valet mode is by entering the PIN on the touchscreen or the app.
Valet mode is a way to limit what the valet can do with your car. When you turn it on, your Tesla will:
- Slow down to 50 mph (80 km/h) or 70 mph (113 km/h) depending on the model
- Lock the front trunk, glove box, and rear trunk buttons
- Turn off the touchscreen and voice commands
- Turn off the Homelink, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi settings
- Hide your contacts, navigation history, and calendar events
- Turn off Sentry Mode and Smart Summon
This way, you can leave your car with the valet without worrying about your security and privacy.
You can still lock or unlock your car remotely, and use the panic button if needed.
