Tesla Guide: Cameras Location, Uses, View – Number and Details

Tesla vehicles are equipped with a comprehensive camera system designed to enhance safety, enable autonomous features, and provide security against potential threats. This system includes multiple cameras strategically located around the vehicle to capture a 360-degree view of its surroundings.

Number and Locations of Cameras

Current Tesla models, including the Model Y, are equipped with nine cameras. Here are the specific locations and functions of these cameras:

Front Cameras: Located at the top of the windshield, these cameras include a typical lens, a wide-angle lens, and a telephoto lens. The telephoto camera can see up to 250 meters ahead, ideal for high-speed Autopilot use, while the main lens covers 150 meters. The wide-angle lens provides a panoramic-like view for navigation at complex intersections and tight curves.
Rear View Camera: Positioned above the rear license plate, this camera provides a view of up to 50 meters behind the vehicle, assisting with parking, reverse driving, and reverse automatic emergency braking.
Fender Cameras: There is a camera on each fender, pointing toward the rear of the vehicle at about a 45° angle. These cameras help monitor the vehicle's blind spots and can be viewed by the driver when using Tesla's blind spot monitor feature or when enabling the side cameras while in reverse.
B-Pillar Cameras: Two cameras are located on the B-pillars, aimed toward the front of the vehicle. These cameras capture areas in the front half of the vehicle and aid with intersections, parking, and other maneuvers.
Cabin Camera: Located above the rearview mirror, the cabin camera monitors driver attentiveness, especially when Autopilot is in use. It can determine driver inattentiveness and provide audible alerts to remind the driver to keep their eyes on the road.

Uses of the Cameras

The cameras in Tesla vehicles serve multiple purposes:

Autopilot and Active Safety Features: The primary use of these cameras is for the Autopilot system and active safety features like Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB). They help the vehicle navigate and respond to its surroundings.
Sentry Mode and Dashcam: These cameras are used for Sentry Mode and Dashcam features, recording potential threats when the vehicle is parked and on the road.
Driver Monitoring: The cabin camera specifically monitors driver attentiveness to ensure safety during Autopilot use.

Viewing Camera Feeds

Drivers can access and view the camera feeds through various methods:

Center Display: While driving, you can access the rear and fender cameras through the center display. To test or preview other cameras, navigate to Controls > Service > Preview Cameras.
Camera App: The Camera app shows the views from the side cameras, rear-facing camera, and front-facing camera. You can open the app launcher and touch the Camera app or touch the camera icon on the right side of the steering wheel.
Remote Viewing: Through the Tesla app, remote viewing capabilities are available for five of the vehicle's cameras, including the front-facing camera, fender cameras, rear camera, and cabin camera.

Calibration and Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance, the cameras must be calibrated and maintained properly:

Calibration Process: Before some Autopilot features can be used for the first time or after some types of service repairs, the cameras must complete a self-calibration process. This typically completes after driving 20-25 miles on a straight road with visible lane markings. If the calibration process does not complete after 100 miles, contact Tesla.
Clearing Calibration: If a camera has shifted from its calibrated position, you must clear the calibration and let the Model Y repeat the calibration process.
Cleaning Cameras: Ensure all cameras are clean and free of obstructions before each drive. Condensation can form inside the camera enclosures, especially in cold or wet conditions. Precondition the cabin by setting it to a warm temperature, turning the windshield defroster on, and directing the front air vents toward the door pillars to dry the condensation.

Data Privacy

Tesla prioritizes data privacy:

Data Sharing: By default, images and video from the cameras do not leave the vehicle unless you enable data sharing. If data sharing is enabled and a safety-critical event occurs, short video clips may be shared with Tesla to improve safety features. Cabin camera data is not associated with your vehicle identification number, and no facial recognition or identity verification is performed.

By understanding the locations, uses, and maintenance requirements of Tesla's camera system, drivers can better utilize these advanced features to enhance their driving experience and safety.