Tesla is famous for its sleek electric cars, cutting-edge technology, and environmental sustainability. But beyond the well-known features like Autopilot and the large center touchscreen, Tesla vehicles are packed with hidden or lesser-known features that many owners might not realize exist.
These features make driving a Tesla more enjoyable, safe, and sometimes even playful. Let’s explore the top 5 Tesla features you probably didn’t know existed—and why they’re more useful than you might think.
1. Caraoke (In-Car Karaoke)
Yes, you can turn your Tesla into a mobile karaoke machine! Tesla’s “Caraoke” feature allows you and your passengers to sing along to popular songs while lyrics appear on the car’s large screen.
It’s available as part of the entertainment system and is perfect for fun road trips, family gatherings, or passing the time while your car charges.
Why It’s Cool: It’s not just about driving—it’s about having fun! Whether you’re taking a break at a Supercharger or just want to entertain your passengers on a long trip, Caraoke transforms your Tesla into a mobile entertainment hub.
Real-Life Example: “During a road trip across California with my friends, we discovered Caraoke. We ended up having a mini concert in the car while waiting to charge at a Supercharger,” says Julie, a Tesla Model 3 owner from San Diego.
How to Use It: Tap the “Entertainment” icon on the touchscreen and select “Caraoke.” You’ll find a library of popular songs with lyrics that pop up on the screen. You can choose to sing with or without the original vocals.
Why It’s Useful: Caraoke is a great way to entertain kids or friends while you’re on a long drive. It also helps pass the time during charging stops, making the wait more enjoyable.
Pro Tip: Make sure to only use Caraoke when the car is parked or stopped to avoid distractions while driving.
Other Fun Easter Eggs: Tesla is known for hiding Easter eggs in their software. Besides Caraoke, you’ll also find quirky features like “Rainbow Road” on Autopilot (where the road turns into a colorful rainbow) and the “Santa Mode,” which turns your car on the touchscreen into a sleigh, complete with holiday music.
2. Bioweapon Defense Mode
One of Tesla’s most innovative and perhaps lesser-known features is the “Bioweapon Defense Mode.” Initially introduced in the Tesla Model X, this mode is now available in other models.
It activates a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which is designed to keep out harmful particles like pollution, allergens, bacteria, and even viruses from entering the car’s cabin.
This feature is so powerful that it can purify the air inside your car, making it cleaner than the air outside.
Why It’s Cool: It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, but Bioweapon Defense Mode is a serious feature. It’s ideal for people who suffer from allergies, live in areas with high pollution, or are concerned about air quality during events like wildfires or dust storms.
Real-Life Example:
“Living in a city with frequent smog, I use Bioweapon Defense Mode whenever I drive through high-traffic areas. It makes a noticeable difference in the air quality inside the car,” says Alex, a Model X owner in Los Angeles.
How to Use It: Tap the fan icon on the touchscreen and choose Bioweapon Defense Mode. The car’s air system will immediately go into overdrive, filtering the air and creating positive cabin pressure to keep pollutants out.
Why It’s Useful: If you’re sensitive to airborne particles or if you live in an area prone to pollution, this feature ensures that you’re breathing clean air, even during traffic jams, smog, or wildfire seasons.
Pro Tip: Use Bioweapon Defense Mode when driving through high-traffic areas, construction zones, or during allergy season. It’s also great when you’re parked near dusty or smoky environments.
Comparison with Other Cars: While some luxury vehicles offer advanced air filtration systems, Tesla’s Bioweapon Defense Mode stands out for its ability to handle extreme conditions like wildfires, heavy pollution, and allergens, providing cleaner air than many other systems.
3. Dog Mode
Tesla’s “Dog Mode” is a lifesaver for pet owners who often travel with their furry companions. Leaving a pet in a parked car can be dangerous, especially in hot or cold weather.
But with Dog Mode, Tesla keeps the interior of the car at a safe and comfortable temperature for your pet while you’re away.
What’s more, the touchscreen displays a large message letting passersby know, “My owner will be back soon. Don’t worry! The A/C is on, and it’s [temperature].”
Why It’s Cool: Dog Mode allows you to leave your pet in the car for short periods without worrying about their safety or someone thinking your pet is in danger. It’s a thoughtful feature designed with pet owners in mind.
Real-Life Example:
“Dog Mode has been a game changer for me. I can now run quick errands without stressing about leaving my dog in the car. People passing by always seem impressed by the message on the screen,” says Mike, a Model Y owner from New York.
How to Use It: When you park, tap the fan icon on the touchscreen, then select “Dog Mode.” Set the desired cabin temperature, and the car will keep the climate system running until you return.
Why It’s Useful:vIt’s perfect for short trips to the store or while grabbing coffee. Dog Mode keeps your pet safe and comfortable, and the visible message reassures others that your dog is not in danger.
Pro Tip: While Dog Mode is convenient, keep your trips brief, and never leave your pet for extended periods. Also, be sure to check local laws regarding leaving pets in vehicles.
Comparison with Other Cars: Many cars offer remote climate control, but Tesla’s Dog Mode takes it a step further by displaying a clear message to anyone passing by. This added reassurance makes Tesla stand out for pet owners.
4. Sentry Mode
Tesla’s “Sentry Mode” is a state-of-the-art security feature that turns the car’s external cameras into a surveillance system while it’s parked. If someone approaches or tries to tamper with your Tesla, the system records the activity, and you’ll receive an alert via the Tesla app.
It can also display a warning message on the touchscreen to let potential intruders know they’re being recorded. In cases of significant incidents, such as attempted theft or vandalism, the car can store footage of the event, which you can review later.
Why It’s Cool: Sentry Mode gives you peace of mind, knowing your Tesla is watching over itself even when you’re not there. It’s especially useful in public parking lots or high-crime areas where car break-ins or vandalism may be a concern.
Real-Life Example:
“Someone hit my car in a parking lot and drove off without leaving a note. Thanks to Sentry Mode, I had video footage of the whole thing, including the license plate of the other vehicle,” says Emma, a Tesla Model 3 owner from Texas.
How to Use It: You can activate Sentry Mode through the Tesla app or the touchscreen before leaving your car. The system will notify you of any unusual activity, and you can check the recorded footage later.
Why It’s Useful: Sentry Mode adds an extra layer of protection for your Tesla, helping to deter break-ins, vandalism, and theft. You can also use the footage as evidence if something happens to your car.
Pro Tip: Make sure you have a USB drive or external hard drive installed in your Tesla to store the video recordings. Keep in mind that Sentry Mode uses a small amount of battery power, so it’s best to turn it off if you’re parked for an extended time without access to charging.
Comparison with Other Cars: While some cars offer basic alarm systems, Tesla’s Sentry Mode is unique in its use of multiple cameras for 360-degree surveillance and the ability to record and notify you of incidents in real-time. This feature gives Tesla an edge in vehicle security.
5. Fart Mode (Emissions Testing Mode)
Yes, Tesla has a Fart Mode. Officially called “Emissions Testing Mode,” this hidden feature allows you to play realistic-sounding fart noises from different seats in the car. It’s all in good fun, allowing you to prank your passengers by selecting which
seat the sound comes from or even triggering the noise with the turn signal. Tesla’s quirky humor shines through in this playful feature.
Why It’s Cool: While it serves no functional purpose, Fart Mode is a hilarious Easter egg that adds a lighthearted element to your driving experience.
It’s perfect for pranking friends, keeping kids entertained, or just adding some laughs to your day.
Real-Life Example:
“I discovered Fart Mode by accident and now my kids insist on using it every time we go for a drive. It’s become a running joke in the family!” says Brian, a Model S owner.
How to Use It: Tap the “Toybox” icon on the touchscreen, then select “Emissions Testing Mode.” From there, you can choose to play the sound from specific seats or activate it with the turn signal.
Why It’s Useful: While it’s purely for fun, Fart Mode is a great way to bring some humor to your Tesla experience. It’s also a unique talking point that showcases Tesla’s playful side.
Pro Tip: Save Fart Mode for long road trips or moments when your passengers least expect it for maximum laughs.
Other Fun Easter Eggs: Besides Fart Mode, Tesla offers several other hidden Easter eggs, like the “Romance Mode” (which turns your screen into a virtual fireplace) or the “Mars Mode,” which turns your navigation map into a view of the red planet.
Staying Up-to-Date with Tesla’s Hidden Features
One of the best parts about owning a Tesla is that the car’s software can be updated over time, meaning new features and improvements are constantly being added.
Tesla regularly releases over-the-air (OTA) software updates that unlock additional functionality, improve performance, and sometimes introduce new Easter eggs.
How to Stay Up-to-Date
- Check for Updates Regularly: Go to your car’s settings and select “Software.” If there’s a new update available, you’ll see a prompt to install it.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Tesla’s OTA updates are usually downloaded more quickly when your car is connected to Wi-Fi.
- Stay Informed: Follow Tesla’s official software updates page or forums to learn about new features as they are released.
Pro Tip: New features can be released unexpectedly, so make sure your car is always connected to Wi-Fi when parked at home or in areas with Wi-Fi access to get updates faster.
Comparison Table
Here’s a quick comparison of the top Tesla features mentioned in this article and why they’re useful:
| Feature | Function | Why It’s Useful |
|---|---|---|
| Caraoke | In-car karaoke entertainment | Fun for road trips or while parked |
| Bioweapon Defense Mode | Air filtration system | Keeps air clean from pollution, allergens, or smoke |
| Dog Mode | Keeps pets comfortable while parked | Ensures your dog is safe and comfortable |
| Sentry Mode | Vehicle surveillance | Protects your car from vandalism or theft |
| Fart Mode | Prank feature for humor | Adds a fun and lighthearted element to driving |
Don’t forget to check for Tesla’s regular software updates—you never know when a new feature or Easter egg might pop up!