Tesla vehicles are simply full of surprises. With their tech-first features, owners can surely feel that they are driving the car of their dreams.
One of the many advantages you’ll find in your Tesla is Valet Mode. Considered a luxury feature that not a lot of cars offer, Valet Mode is designed to enhance vehicle safety.
But how exactly does this feature keep your Tesla safe?
Understanding Tesla’s Valet Mode
Tesla’s Valet Mode is an over-the-air software update that restricts some of the vehicle’s features and functionality when activated.
Initially, not all Tesla models had this feature, limiting its availability to some performance models only. But as of writing, Valet Mode is readily available to all Tesla models.
Introduced in 2015, Tesla’s Valet Mode is designed as a safety feature that prevents valets and other users from driving recklessly. It also hides the owner’s personal information, helping prevent identity theft.
Many automakers have their versions of Valet Mode, and each one has its own set of specifications that might differ slightly from another.
Valet Mode Key Functions
For Tesla vehicles, activating Valet Mode will reduce the maximum vehicle speed to 70 miles per hour and acceleration by as much as 50%. Valet Mode also disables the autopilot function.
Accessibility and Performance Restrictions
Restriction is the main premise of Valet Mode, which means there are only a handful of things you can do with your Tesla once it’s activated.
For example, enabling Valet Mode will automatically lock the glove box and frunk. It will, however, keep the trunk accessible to whoever is driving your Tesla.
And because vehicle speed and acceleration are reduced, your Tesla will essentially run in “Chill” mode, and prevent you (or other drivers) from switching to “Ludicrous” mode.
Smart Function Restrictions
To prevent identity theft, Valet Mode automatically blocks certain personal information from appearing on the infotainment screen. With Valet Mode enabled, the driver won’t see addresses, contacts, and schedules.
Connectivity functions such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are also disabled, as well as voice command and GPS.
In addition, you won’t be able to change the “Allow Mobile Access” setting with the Valet Mode enabled. So as long as you have your phone, you’ll still be able to access your vehicle even if you’re not in it.
Other Restrictions
Other features such as Sentry Mode will remain enabled/disabled until you switch Valet Mode off. Smart Summon will also be inaccessible.
Controllable Functions Under Valet Mode
Valet Mode takes the fun out of driving your Tesla, but it’s meant to be that way to keep your vehicle safe. There are, however, some functions that remain accessible under this feature.
Charging activities won’t be restricted under Valet Mode. This can be convenient when your valet location has readily available chargers.
The maximum speed limit under Valet Mode can also be adjusted using Speed Limit Mode. 70 miles per hour is the default setting, but you can freely change that number.
How to Put Tesla In Valet Mode
You can either use your phone or the display screen to enable Valet Mode. From inside the vehicle, you can simply tap your name on the screen to access the drop-down menu where you’ll see Valet Mode.
Enabling Valet Mode for the first time will prompt you to enter a four-digit PIN. From your phone, you can enable Valet Mode using the app, assuming that the vehicle is parked.
Other Practical Implications of Tesla’s Valet Mode
Having a Valet Mode feature is extremely important for performance vehicles that are often driven at high speeds. Regulating speed limits can introduce safe driving practices for car owners while reducing the risk of getting into an accident.
Tesla vehicles with Valet Mode also make them ideal practice cars for young teens who want to learn the ropes of driving, given that speed limits can be adjusted accordingly without restricting other safety features.
Common Problems with Valet Mode
Getting stuck in Valet Mode is a common concern among Tesla owners. To get around this problem, the safest thing to do is to contact a Tesla roadside assistance agent.
Tesla’s agents can remotely unlock Valet Mode but only if the vehicle is registered under your name.
Drivers who bought a used Tesla might need to incorporate other steps such as registering themselves as the vehicle owner before they can get out of Valet Mode.
Other Automakers Who Offer Valet Mode
A lot of automakers have their version of Valet Mode. Here are some of the most popular ones.
Chevrolet
Similar to Tesla, Chevrolet’s Valet Mode can be activated using a four-digit pin. This will automatically lock the glove box and center console, as well as disable the stereo and infotainment system.
Another impressive feat incorporated in Chevy’s Valet Mode is the HD recording of whoever is behind the wheel. This feature comes in handy when checking if your valet driver is up to something fishy.
Audi
Audi’s Valet Mode generally works the same way as the others but with one advantage一smart watch compatibility.
Volkswagen
Unlike Tesla and Chevrolet which both use code-based systems in activating Valet Mode, Volkswagen uses a key. The key can be found in a compartment inside the glove box that has the Valet Mode switch sitting next to it.
Only the valet key can lock and unlock the glove box and trunk, including the backseat pass-through.
Nissan
Nissan’s Valet Mode can be activated via the NissanConnect app on your smartphone. Once enabled, this feature records the vehicle’s drop-off location and alerts the owner if the vehicle is driven past the 0.2-mile range of its supposed drop-off point.
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