How to turn on Tesla Model X

Tesla owners who wish to perform basic procedures or maintenance on their Model X can do so without having to schedule a Service appointment. Only perform a procedure if you feel comfortable doing so, and always follow all provided instructions.

For answers to further questions, visit the Support page.

• Restarting the Touchscreen
• Power Cycling the Vehicle
• Pairing a Bluetooth Phone
• Connecting to Wi-Fi
• Programming HomeLink®
• Burnishing the Brakes
• Unlocking and Starting Your Vehicle Using the Tesla Mobile App
• Replacing the Key Battery
• Unlocking When the Key Doesn't Work
• Replacing the HEPA Filter
• Checking and Adjusting Tire Pressures
• Drive to Calibrate Cameras
• Replacing Hood Struts
• Topping Up Windshield Washer Fluid
• Replacing Wiper Blades
• Adjusting Liftgate Opening Height
• Manually Releasing Charge Cable
• Removing and Installing Lug Nut Covers
• Charge Port Status Lights
• Gen 2 Mobile Connector Status Lights
• Gen 1 Mobile Connector Status Lights

Restarting the Touchscreen

If your touchscreen is unresponsive or demonstrates unusual behavior, you can restart it to potentially resolve the issue.

• Shift into Park.
• Hold down both scroll buttons on the steering wheel until the touchscreen turns black.
  
  
• After a few seconds, the Tesla logo will appear. Wait approximately 30 seconds for the touchscreen to restart. If the touchscreen is still unresponsive or demonstrating unusual behavior after a few minutes, try powering cycling the vehicle.

Note: Restarting the touchscreen using the scroll buttons does not power Model X off and on.

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Power Cycling the Vehicle

If your vehicle demonstrates unusual behavior or a nondescript alert is present, you can try power cycling the vehicle to potentially resolve the issue.

• Shift into Park.
• On the touchscreen, touch 'Controls' > 'Safety & Security' > 'Power Off.'
• Wait for at least two minutes without interacting with the vehicle. Do not open the doors, touch the brake pedal, touch the touchscreen, etc.
• After two minutes have passed, press the brake pedal to wake the vehicle.

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Pairing a Bluetooth Phone

Pairing allows you to use your Bluetooth-capable phone hands-free to make and receive phone calls, access your contact list, recent calls, etc. It also allows you to play media files from your phone. Once a phone is paired, Model X can connect to it whenever the phone is within range.

To pair a phone, follow these steps while sitting inside Model X:

• Ensure both the touchscreen and the phone are powered on.
• On your phone, enable Bluetooth and ensure it is discoverable.
  Note: On some phones, this may require you to go to Bluetooth Settings for the remainder of the procedure.
• Touch the Bluetooth icon on the top of the touchscreen.
• On the touchscreen, touch 'Add New Device' > 'Start Search.' The touchscreen displays a list of all available Bluetooth devices within operating distance.
• On the touchscreen, touch the phone with which you want to pair. Within a few seconds, the touchscreen displays a randomly generated number, and your phone should display the same number.
• Check that the number displayed on your phone matches the number displayed on the touchscreen. Then, on your phone, confirm that you want to pair.
• If prompted on your phone, specify whether you want to allow Model X to access your contacts and media files.

When paired, Model X automatically connects to the phone, and the touchscreen displays the Bluetooth symbol next to the phone’s name to indicate that the connection is active.

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Connecting to Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available as a data connection method and is often faster than cellular data networks. Connecting to Wi-Fi is especially useful in areas with limited or no cellular connectivity. To ensure fast, reliable delivery of software and map updates, Tesla recommends leaving your vehicle connected to a Wi-Fi network whenever possible (for example, if parked in your garage overnight).

To connect to a Wi-Fi network:

• Touch the cellular icon (usually LTE or 3G) on the top corner of your touchscreen. Model X will start scanning and display the detected Wi-Fi networks that are within range.
• Select the Wi-Fi network you want to use, enter the password (if necessary), then touch 'Confirm.'
• Your vehicle connects to the Wi-Fi network and will automatically connect to it whenever the network is within range.

You can also connect to a hidden network that isn't shown on the list of scanned networks. Just touch 'Wi-Fi Settings,' enter the name of the network in the resulting dialog box, select the security setting, then touch 'Add Network.'

Note: If more than one previously connected network is within range, Model X connects to the one most recently used.

Note: You can also use a mobile hotspot or your phone's Internet connection via Wi-Fi tethering (subject to fees and restrictions of your mobile carrier).

Note: At Tesla Service Centers, Model X automatically connects to the Tesla Service Wi-Fi network.

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Programming HomeLink®

To program HomeLink® (if equipped):

• Park Model X so that the front bumper is in front of the garage door, gate, or light you want to program.

  Caution: Your device might open or close during programming. Before programming, make sure that the device is clear of any people or objects.

• Get the device's remote control and ensure it has a healthy battery. Tesla recommends replacing the battery in the device's remote control before Programming HomeLink.
• Touch the HomeLink icon at the top of the touchscreen.
• Touch 'Create HomeLink,' then select which mode you wish to use: Standard, D-Mode or UR-Mode.
• Use the touchscreen to enter a name for your device and touch 'Enter' or 'Create HomeLink.'
• Touch 'Start' then follow the onscreen instructions.
  Note: If you see a screen called “Train the receiver” while programming the device, remember that this is a time-sensitive step. After pressing the Learn/Program/Smart button on the device's remote, you only have approximately 30 seconds to return to your vehicle, press 'Continue,' and then press the trained HomeLink device name twice. Consider having an assistant help with this step.
• Once your device is programmed, touch 'Save' to complete the HomeLink programming routine.
• Ensure HomeLink works as expected. In some cases the programming process may require multiple attempts before succeeding.

Once programmed, you can operate the device by touching its corresponding HomeLink icon on the touchscreen's status bar. HomeLink remembers the location of your programmed devices. When you approach a known location, the HomeLink control on the touchscreen automatically drops down. When you drive away, it disappears.

Note: For additional assistance or compatibility questions, contact HomeLink.

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Burnishing the Brakes

You should burnish the brakes after replacing brake pads and/or brake rotors. In addition, burnishing the brakes might eliminate a situation where the brakes emit a high-pitched squealing noise while braking, especially if the noise is present while driving in the rain, driving in cold and/or humid climates, or if there is surface rust present on the brake components. Note that all vehicles with disk brakes can experience this situation and that braking performance is not affected.

To burnish the brakes:

Note: Be sure to comply with all local traffic safety laws and only perform maneuvers in a suitable location where such activity is legal, with little to no traffic.

• On the touchscreen, touch 'Controls' > 'Driving' > 'Regenerative Braking' > 'Low.'

Note: This setting does not exist on newer vehicles. If this setting does not exist, continue the procedure.

• Drive the vehicle at approximately 50 mph - 55 mph (80 km/h - 90 km/h) on a straight road.
• Apply moderate, consistent pressure to the brake pedal to slowly decelerate the vehicle, releasing at 10 mph (15 km/h).
• Repeat this procedure 6 times, waiting at least 30 seconds between applications.

Note: If the noise still persists, use your mobile app to contact Tesla or schedule a Service appointment.

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Unlocking and Starting Your Vehicle Using the Tesla Mobile App

You can use the mobile app to unlock and start Model X. This may be useful in cases where you do not have your key fob or are not physically close to the vehicle (for example, you want to unlock the vehicle for your spouse from across town).

Note: Your phone and vehicle must both be actively connected to cellular service and mobile access must be enabled on the touchscreen (Controls > Safety & Security > Allow Mobile Access) to allow the mobile app to communicate with your vehicle. Tesla recommends that you always have a functional physical key readily available if parking in an area with limited or absent cellular service, such as an indoor parking garage.

To unlock your vehicle using the mobile app:

• Open the mobile app.
• Touch 'Controls' > 'Unlock.'
• Touch 'Yes' on the confirmation popup window.

To start your vehicle using the mobile app:

• Open the mobile app.
• Touch 'Controls' > 'Start.'
• Enter your Tesla Account password on the confirmation popup window.

Note: You will have two minutes to start driving after enabling keyless driving. If the two-minute window has expired prior to driving you will need to re-enable keyless driving.

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Replacing the Key Battery

The key’s battery lasts for approximately a year with normal use. When the battery is low, a message displays on the instrument panel. Follow these steps to replace it:

Note: Tesla recommends replacing the battery in all keys at the same time.

• With the key placed button-side down on a soft surface, use a small flat-bladed tool or fingernail to release the bottom cover.
  Note: If a lanyard is attached to the key, you can release the bottom cover by placing your thumb against the "X" on the bottom cover, then firmly pulling the lanyard toward you (hence pushing the key off of its cover). You can also pry the cover off by placing a small flat-bladed tool, a fingernail, or the Tesla-provided tool against the lanyard cord.
• Remove the battery by carefully releasing it from the retaining clips at an angle.
• Insert the new battery (type CR2354) with the ‘+’ side facing up. The battery fits snugly so you must slide it into position at an angle toward the Positive contact (the contact located near the center of the key), then press down firmly on the other side, ensuring it is held firmly in its intended position.
  Note: Tesla recommends using Panasonic CR2354 batteries. These can be purchased through online retailers, local supermarkets and drug stores.
  Caution: The battery should press against the spring on the positive contact. Do not place the battery on top of the contact and force it down vertically. Doing so may damage the contact.
  Note: Wipe the battery clean before fitting and avoid touching the battery's flat surfaces. Finger marks on the flat surfaces of the battery can reduce battery life.
• Holding the cover at an angle, align the tabs on the widest side of the cover with the corresponding slots on the key, then press the cover firmly onto the key until it snaps into place.
• Test that the key works by unlocking and locking your vehicle.

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Unlocking When the Key Doesn't Work

If Model X does not unlock when you walk up to it, or when you double-click the unlock button on the top of your key, the key’s battery may be dead. Even if this is the case, you can still use the key to unlock and drive Model X.

Note: Although you can still use your key, you should consider using the mobile app to remotely unlock and start the vehicle. Then, replace your key's battery when convenient.

To unlock Model X (and disable the security alarm) using the key, first position the key at the base of the door pillar between the front door and the falcon wing door, on the driver's side of the vehicle. Then press the driver's door handle. If Model X doesn't unlock, try adjusting the position of the key and try again. The key must be in the correct position for the vehicle to unlock. If Model X still doesn't unlock, remove and reinstall the key's battery and try again.

Note: The following illustration assumes a left hand drive (LHD) vehicle. On a right hand drive (RHD) vehicle, the locations are mirrored.

To drive Model X after gaining access to the cabin, place the bottom of the key against the center console, immediately below the 12V power outlet, then press and hold the brake pedal to start Model X.

Note: Unlocking Model X using this method disables walk away locking. You must manually re-enable walk away locking after replacing the key’s battery.

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Replacing the HEPA Filter

If equipped, Tesla recommends replacing the HEPA filter every 3 years (every year in China).

To replace the HEPA filter:

• Open the hood.
• Remove the rear underhood apron.
• Remove both the left and right underhood aprons.
• Remove the front underhood apron.
• Carefully fold back the trunk seals to release the front of the carpet from the underhood storage unit, then disconnect the electrical connector from both underhood storage unit lights.
• Remove the carpet from the underhood storage unit.
• Remove the fasteners (x20) that secure the underhood storage unit to the vehicle.
• Remove the underhood storage unit from the vehicle.
• Release the old HEPA filter from the duct.
• Insert the new HEPA filter in place so that it is secured by the duct.
• Place the underhood storage unit in place and then tighten the fasteners (x2) that secure it:
  • 6 fasteners (7 Nm)
  • 4 fasteners (7 Nm)
  • 10 fasteners (4 Nm)
• Place the carpet back into the underhood storage unit.
• Connect the electrical connectors to the underhood storage unit lights and readjust the seal to prevent ingress.
• Reinstall the front, left, right, and rear underhood aprons then close the hood.

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Installing Wireless Phone Charger

The Wireless Phone Charger can be purchased at the Tesla online store. Perform the following to install the Wireless Phone Charger in Model X equipped with a center console:

• Open the center console sliding lid and the phone dock door.
• Remove the phone dock mat by lifting it straight up.
• Use a Philips screwdriver to remove the screws (x2) that attach the existing phone dock adapter bracket to the center console. Remove the existing phone dock, if equipped.
• Partially lower the phone dock door, and then push the phone dock adapter bracket towards the front of the vehicle. Remove the phone dock adapter bracket by reaching into the center console.
• Partially lower the phone dock door, and then install the new phone dock adapter bracket.

  Note: Make sure the tabs are fully engaged with the center console.

• Align the holes in the new phone dock adapter bracket with the holes in the center console, and then install the screws (x2) that attach the phone dock adapter bracket to the center console (tighten to 0.28 Nm/0.2 ft-lbs).
• Insert the USB cable downwards, through the opening in the phone dock adapter bracket.
• Partially lower the phone dock door, and then insert the new wireless phone charger so that the tabs on each side are aligned with the slots on the center console. Push the wireless phone charger downwards until you hear an audible click and the wireless phone charger is fully secure.
• Maneuver the USB cable so that it goes up and through the opening behind the new phone dock adapter bracket. Pull the USB cable so that there is minimal slack under the phone dock door.
• Route the USB cable carefully through the retaining tabs on the channel in the molded plastic in the center console.

  Caution: Take care not to damage the retaining tabs.

• Plug in the USB into one of the ports on the center console.
• Reinstall the phone dock mat so that the notch is aligned with the USB cable. Make sure to press down the front part so that it tucks under the phone dock adapter bracket and is fully flush with the center console.

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Checking and Adjusting Tire Pressures

Follow these steps when tires are cold and Model X has been stationary for over three hours:

• Refer to the Tire and Loading Information label located on the driver’s center door pillar for the target tire pressure.
• Remove the valve cap.
• Firmly press an accurate tire pressure gauge onto the valve to measure pressure.
• If required, add or remove air to reach the recommended pressure.
  Note: You can release air by pressing the metal stem in the center of the valve.
• Re-check pressure using the accurate tire gauge.
• Repeat steps 3 and 4 as necessary until the tire pressure is correct.
• Reinstall the valve cap to prevent dirt from entering. Periodically check the valve for damage and leaks.

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Drive to Calibrate Cameras

Model X must maneuver with a great deal of precision when Autopilot features are being used. Therefore, before some features (for example, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control or Autosteer) can be used for the first time or after certain Service repairs, the cameras must complete a self-calibration process. For your convenience, a progress indicator is displayed on the instrument panel.

Calibration typically completes after driving 20-25 miles (32-40 km), but the distance varies depending on road and environmental conditions. Driving on a straight road with highly-visible lane lines allows Model X to calibrate quicker. When calibration is complete, the Autopilot features are available for use. Contact Tesla only if your Model X has not completed the calibration process after driving 100 miles (160 km).

Note: If you attempt to use a feature that is not available until the calibration process is complete, the feature will not be enabled and the instrument panel displays a message.
Note: Model X must repeat the calibration process if the cameras are serviced by Tesla, and in some cases, after a software update.
Note: The self-calibration drive process is only applicable to Model X vehicles built after approximately October 12, 2016.

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Replacing Hood Struts

Your hood struts can be replaced if they begin to fail for any reason. To replace your hood struts:

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Topping Up Windshield Washer Fluid

The only reservoir into which you can add fluid is the windshield washer fluid reservoir, which is located behind the front trunk. When the level is low, a message displays on the touchscreen.

To top up the washer fluid:

• Open the hood.
• Clean around the filler cap before opening it to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
• Open the filler cap.
• While avoiding spilling, fill the reservoir until the fluid level is visible just below the filler neck.
  
  
• Wipe up any spills immediately and wash the affected area with water.
• Replace the filler cap.

Note: Some national or local regulations restrict the use of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). VOCs are commonly used as antifreeze in washer fluid. Use a washer fluid with limited VOC content only if it provides adequate freeze resistance for all climates in which you drive Model X.

Caution: Do not add formulated washer fluids that contain water repellent or bug wash. These fluids can cause streaking, smearing and squeaking or other noises.

Warning: In temperatures below 40° F (4° C), use a washer fluid with antifreeze. In cold weather, using a washer fluid without antifreeze can impair visibility through the windshield.

Warning: Windshield washer fluid can irritate eyes and skin. Read and observe the instructions provided by the washer fluid manufacturer.

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Replacing Wiper Blades

For optimum performance, replace the wiper blades at least once a year.

Note: Only install replacement blades that are identical to the original blades. Using inappropriate blades can damage the wiper system and windshield.

Note: The wiper washing system is an integrated part of the wiper blades on Model X.

To replace the wiper blades:

• Shift into Park and turn off the wipers.
• Touch Controls > Service > Wiper Service Mode > ON to move the wipers to the service position.
• Lift the wiper arm a short distance away from the windshield, just far enough to access the wiper blade.

  Caution: Wiper blades do not lock into a lifted position. Do not lift a wiper arm beyond its intended position.

• Squeeze the two tabs to release the wiper blade from the wiper arm.

  Caution: The wiper blade is still connected to the washer hose and cannot be removed yet.

  
• Place a towel between the wiper arm and windshield to avoid scratching or cracking the windshield.
• Disconnect the washer hose from the wiper blade, taking care to avoid spilling any washer fluid.
  
  
• Fully insert the washer hose onto the nipple of the new wiper blade.
• Align the new wiper blade on the wiper arm and slide it toward the end of the wiper arm until it locks into place.
• Turn Wiper Service Mode off to return the wipers to their normal position.

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Adjusting Liftgate Opening Height

You can adjust the opening height of the powered liftgate to make it easier to reach or avoid low-hanging ceilings or objects (for example, a garage door or light):

• Open the liftgate, then manually lower or raise it to the desired opening height.
• Press and hold the button on the underside of the liftgate for two seconds until you hear a confirmation chime.

• Confirm that you have set it to the desired height by closing the liftgate, then reopening it.

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Manually Releasing Charge Cable

If the usual methods for releasing a charge cable from the charge port (using the charge handle release button, touchscreen or mobile app) do not work, carefully follow these steps:

• Ensure that Model X is not actively charging by displaying the charging screen on the touchscreen. If necessary, touch 'Stop Charging.'
• Open the rear trunk.
• Pull the charge port's release cable downwards to unlatch the charge cable.
  
  
  
  Note: The release cable may be recessed within the opening of the trim.
• Pull the charge cable from the charge port.

Caution: The release cable is designed for use only in situations where the charge cable cannot be released from the charge port using the usual methods. Continuous use may result in damage to the release cable or charging equipment.

Warning: Do not perform this procedure while your vehicle is charging or if any orange high voltage conductors are exposed. Failure to follow these instructions can result in electric shock and serious injury or damage to the vehicle. If you have any uncertainty as to how to safely perform this procedure, contact your closest Service Center.

Warning: Do not attempt to remove the charge cable at the same exact time as you begin to pull the release cable. Always pull the release cable down and hold it before you begin to remove the charge cable from the charge port. Failure to follow these instructions can result in electric shock and serious injury.

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Removing and Installing Lug Nut Covers

If your Model X is equipped with lug nut covers, you must remove them to access the lug nuts.

To remove a lug nut cover:

To install the lug nut cover:

• Align the lug nut cover into position.
• Push firmly on the lug nut cover until it fully snaps into place.

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Charge Port Status Lights

When your charge port is open the status light changes color to communicate its current state and help troubleshoot issues in the unlikely event that one comes up. As a reminder, the charge port light turns off after a short period of time if the vehicle is locked (for example, if you walk up to the car after it has been charging for a while).

Note: When plugging your vehicle in, consider monitoring the color of the charge port before walking away. If you see a red or amber light, troubleshooting the issue before you leave can ensure a successful charging session.

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Gen 2 Mobile Connector Status Lights

Under normal conditions, when charging is in progress, the Tesla logo lights illuminate sequentially, and the red light is off. Identify problems by paying attention to these lights.

In some cases, you may need to reset the device by unplugging the Mobile Connector from the vehicle or from the power outlet.

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Gen 1 Mobile Connector Status Lights

Under normal conditions, when charging is in progress, the Mobile Connector’s lights illuminate sequentially, and the red light is off. Identify problems by paying attention to these lights.

Note: In some cases, you may need to reset the device by pressing the RESET button located on the back.

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