Tesla Valet Mode Everything It Does

Tesla's Valet Mode is a robust safety and privacy feature designed to protect your vehicle and personal data when it is in the hands of a valet or another driver. This mode restricts various functionalities to prevent reckless driving and unauthorized access to your information.

Activation and PIN Setup

To activate Valet Mode, you need to be in Park. Simply touch the driver profile icon at the top of the touchscreen, then select "Valet Mode" from the dropdown menu. The first time you enable Valet Mode, you will be prompted to create a 4-digit PIN, which you will use to cancel Valet Mode later. This PIN adds an extra layer of security to ensure that only you can disable Valet Mode.

Speed and Acceleration Restrictions

When Valet Mode is active, the vehicle's maximum speed is limited to 70 mph (113 km/h), and acceleration is reduced to the "Chill" setting, which is about 50% of the normal acceleration. This ensures that the valet driver cannot engage in high-speed driving or experience the full acceleration power of the Tesla.

Feature Restrictions

Valet Mode imposes several restrictions to protect your privacy and vehicle:

Front Trunk and Glovebox: These compartments are locked to prevent access to personal items.
Navigation: Recent destinations, favorites, and home and work addresses are not available.
Voice Commands: Voice commands are disabled to prevent unauthorized use.
Autopilot and FSD: Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) features are disabled to prevent misuse.
Mobile Access: The "Allow Mobile Access" setting cannot be changed.
HomeLink: HomeLink functionality is unavailable if it is available in your market region.
Driver Profiles: Driver profiles are inaccessible, ensuring that the valet cannot adjust settings.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: These are disabled, preventing new device pairing or viewing/deleting existing paired devices. However, if a Bluetooth-paired device or known Wi-Fi network is within range, the vehicle will connect to it.

Additional Restrictions

Other features that are restricted or disabled in Valet Mode include:

Sentry Mode: Settings cannot be adjusted if Sentry Mode is active.
Smart Summon: This feature is disabled.
Calendar: Access to the calendar is not available.
Upgrades Section: The "Upgrades" section in the Controls menu is disabled.
Apps: Certain apps like Toybox and Theater are not accessible.
List of Authorized Keys: The touchscreen does not display the list of keys that can access the vehicle.

Charging and Customization

Despite the numerous restrictions, Valet Mode does not limit the vehicle's ability to charge. This means the valet can plug your Tesla in to charge while it is parked, ensuring it remains charged and ready for use. Additionally, you can customize the speed limit using "Speed Limit Mode" by setting a personalized maximum speed with a 4-digit PIN. This setting can be adjusted in the car or through the Tesla app.

Mobile App Control

Valet Mode can also be activated and canceled using the Tesla mobile app, provided the vehicle is parked. This allows you to control Valet Mode remotely without needing to physically access the vehicle.

PIN to Drive and Teen Drivers

If you use the "PIN to Drive" feature, it is disabled while Valet Mode is active. However, this feature can be useful for teen drivers, as Valet Mode can limit their access to certain functionalities, such as full acceleration and Autopilot, to ensure safer driving practices.

By understanding and utilizing Tesla's Valet Mode, you can ensure your vehicle's safety and protect your personal data when it is in the hands of others.