The cruise control of the Tesla Model 3, also known as Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, detects vehicles ahead in the same lane. This feature reduces the Tesla’s speed in order to maintain a time-based distance from the vehicle in front at the chosen speed.
Quick View:
- Tesla Model 3’s cruise control, known as Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, adjusts the car’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from vehicles ahead.
- To use this, there should be no vehicle detected in front within a certain distance, and the driver must maintain a minimum speed of 30 km/h.
- The Model 3 is equipped with adaptive cruise control, which uses external cameras to adjust speed based on surrounding traffic.
- The Tesla Model 3 also offers Autopilot, an advanced version of cruise control that can assist with steering, deceleration, and lane changes.
It notes that firmware bugs have been reported as a potential cause of cruise control issues and suggests checking for software updates.
Tesla Model 3’s Traffic-Aware Cruise Control maintains a set speed if the area in front of the vehicle is clear. In this article, we will explore more about the Cruise Control Tesla Model 3 system.
How Does the Cruise Control Tesla Model 3 Mechanism Work?
The cruise control system of the Tesla Model 3 may adjust the vehicle’s speed in response to traffic and road conditions.
The Tesla Model 3 cruising speed can be adjusted via a scroll mechanism located on the steering wheel. The driver is accountable for maintaining a secure speed and sticking to posted speed limits. You can switch off the system by pressing or pulling up the stalk.
When no obstacles are in front of the vehicle, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control will maintain a constant speed.
If the car detects another vehicle, it will automatically decelerate to maintain a predetermined time-based distance from the vehicle in front, up to the maximum speed set by the driver.
Although Traffic-Aware Cruise Control can be a useful aid, the driver is still responsible for keeping an eye on the road and manually applying the brakes when necessary. This feature is optimal for use on dry, direct highways.
To use Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, certain conditions must be met:
- No vehicle is detected ahead of the vehicle.
- If a vehicle is detected, the vehicle is at least 1.5 m behind the detected vehicle.
- Must drive at least 30 km/h unless the vehicle and environmental conditions allow it at lower speeds.
Types of Cruise Control in Tesla
Here are the 3 types of Traffic-Aware Cruise Control you can find in Tesla Cars.
Adaptive Cruise Control
The Model 3 is equipped with adaptive cruise control, meaning cameras on the outside of the car detect its surroundings and decelerate or accelerate to maintain following distances.
To adjust the speed, there are + and – symbols next to the speed, or you can use the right wheel on the steering wheel to speed up or slow down.
Engaging Cruise Control
To engage cruise control, press down once on the right stalk while in the drive. Under the speedometer are the cruise-control speed settings.
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control
All new Tesla Model 3s have cruise control, but this isn’t just any old cruise control. New Tesla cars are equipped with the Autopilot driver-assist technology package, which includes TACC or Traffic-Aware Cruise Control.
9 Reasons Cruise Control Tesla Model 3 Unavailable
According to reports, the Tesla Model 3 Cruise Control has suddenly become inaccessible. In the following instances, the cruise control may be unavailable or deactivated:
1. Pressing the Brake Pedal
If you press the brake pedal while using cruise control, it will disengage the feature.
The Fix:
To prevent this problem from happening, release the brake pedal before engaging Traffic-Aware Cruise Control.
2. Exceeding the Maximum Cruising Speed
If you exceed the maximum cruising speed set by your vehicle, the cruise control will disengage.
The Fix:
If your driving speed exceeds the maximum cruising speed of 150 km/h, reduce your speed before engaging Traffic-Aware Cruise Control.
3. Shifting Gears
If you shift gears while using cruise control, it will disengage the feature.
The Fix:
To prevent that, don’t shift gears while using Traffic-Aware Cruise Control.
4. Opening a Door
If you open a door while using cruise control, it will disengage the feature.
The Fix:
To prevent that, make sure all doors are properly closed before engaging with Traffic-Aware Cruise Control.
5. Obstruction of Cameras or Sensors
If any of the vehicle’s cameras or sensors become obstructed, the cruise control may become unavailable.
The Fix:
If a camera or sensor is obstructed, clean the cameras and sensors to remove any dirt, snow, ice, or mud that may be blocking them.
6. Disabling Traction Control
If you turn off traction control while using cruise control, it will disengage the feature.
The Fix:
If the traction control setting is manually disabled or is repeatedly engaged to prevent wheels from slipping, enable the traction control setting.
7. Spinning Wheels While at a Standstill
If your wheels spin while your vehicle is at a standstill, the cruise control will disengage.
The Fix:
To resolve this, release the accelerator pedal and allow the wheels to stop spinning before engaging Traffic-Aware Cruise Control.
8. Reduced Front Radar Visibility
The front bumper of the Tesla is equipped with a radar system. If this radar becomes obstructed or its visibility is reduced, the cruise control may become unavailable.
The Fix:
If the front radar has no or low visibility due to temporary obstruction, clean the front radar to remove any dirt, snow, ice, or mud that may be blocking it.
9. Firmware Bugs
There have been reports of firmware bugs that have affected the majority of the fleet, causing the cruise control to become unavailable.
The Fix:
If a firmware bug causes the issue, Tesla will likely release a software update to fix the problem. It is important to ensure that the software on your car is up-to-date.
Related Post: Tesla Cruise Control Unavailable: What You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Is Traffic-Aware Cruise Control available in all Tesla vehicles?
No, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control may not be available in all Tesla vehicles, depending on market region, vehicle configuration, options purchased, and software version.
Is Traffic-Aware Cruise Control a collision warning or avoidance system?
No, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control is meant to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience, but it is not a system for warning or preventing collisions.
What is Autosteer?
Autosteer is a feature available in some Tesla vehicles that builds upon Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and intelligently keeps the vehicle in its driving lane when cruising at a set speed.
Is Autosteer available in all Tesla vehicles?
No, Autosteer may not be available in all Tesla vehicles, depending on market region, vehicle configuration, options purchased, and software version.
Do I need to keep my hands on the steering wheel while using Traffic-Aware Cruise Control?
Yes, it is important to keep your hands on the steering wheel and stay alert while using Traffic-Aware Cruise Control.
Can I use Autosteer with Traffic-Aware Cruise Control?
Yes, the Autosteer feature enhances the Traffic-Aware Cruise Control by efficiently maintaining the car’s driving lane at a predetermined speed.
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