California video creator Everyday Chris has revealed several hidden functions built into Tesla electric vehicles that many drivers remain unaware of, according to automotive media brand Supercar Blondie.
The YouTuber, who has owned a Tesla for several years, explained that routine software updates can significantly alter the interior user experience of the vehicles, causing unexpected controls and visual alerts to appear on the main screen.
In a video detailing his findings, Everyday Chris stated that despite years of Tesla ownership he continuously discovers features that surprise him. He noted that after over the air updates, drivers can enter their cars to find altered screen layouts or flashing red icons that reveal capabilities they did not know existed. Tesla, an American electric vehicle manufacturer headquartered in Austin, Texas, frequently releases remote software updates to add functional capabilities across its vehicle lineup.
Safety and Collision Prevention Features
Among the hidden features highlighted in the video is a safety door lock mechanism designed to prevent accidents. The system delays opening the vehicle doors if sensors detect an approaching car or cyclist from behind. Everyday Chris also pointed out a blind spot illumination feature that activates on the dashboard and side panels when another vehicle enters a blind spot, although he noted this function is only available on newer models.
The content creator demonstrated several automated driver assistance responses built into the vehicles. When a driver unbuckles their seatbelt while stopped, the Tesla automatically shifts into park mode. Drivers can also access live camera feeds using a dedicated button on the steering wheel. In addition, Tesla vehicles feature a Green Light Chime function that produces an audible alert when a traffic light turns green or when a stopped vehicle ahead begins moving.
Charging Controls and Physical Emergency Overrides
Everyday Chris shared physical workarounds for handling charging hardware issues. Pressing and holding the rear left door handle can pause the charging process and release a stuck charging cable. Although charging cable jams occur infrequently, knowing the door handle shortcut provides an immediate solution. For instances where electronic controls fail, Tesla includes a manual pull strap concealed inside the trunk lining near the charging port to manually disconnect a stuck charger.
Cabin Convenience and Navigation Shortcuts
The video detailed multiple touchscreen shortcuts designed to streamline navigation and vehicle operation. Swiping right or dragging downward on the navigation search bar automatically initiates routing to a saved home or work address. Drivers can also configure location based automatic mirror folding, which uses GPS coordinates to fold side mirrors inward whenever the car approaches designated coordinates, such as a narrow garage entrance.
For Tesla Model Y crossover SUV owners, the middle rear seat can fold independently to accommodate long items such as skis while leaving the remaining two passenger seats fully operational. The entire second row of seats can also recline using release buttons located near their base. Furthermore, Tesla enables hands free trunk access that opens the rear hatch automatically when an authorized smartphone key is detected nearby.
Everyday Chris also highlighted the integration of Grok, an artificial intelligence assistant capable of providing language lessons, travel advice, venue recommendations, and multi-stop route planning. The creator praised the vehicle voice control capabilities, expressing hope that Tesla will fully integrate Grok across all vehicle functions rather than continuing to rely on its original classic voice assistant system.
Early Scrapping Concerns in Norway
The feature showcase comes amid broader discussions regarding the overall longevity of electric cars. Statistical data published by the Norwegian Road Traffic Information Council, known as OFV, revealed that Tesla electric vehicles in Norway are being scrapped after less than seven years of use. In comparison, internal combustion engine vehicles manufactured by Mercedes are scrapped after an average of 20 years of operation in the country.
The rapid scrapping rate for electric vehicles has raised environmental concerns regarding short vehicle service lifespans. According to OFV experts, replacing a depleted or damaged electric vehicle battery pack costs between 14,000 euros and 18,000 euros, with some replacement procedures costing even more. Because high battery replacement expenses can exceed the remaining financial value of a multi year old car, vehicles only six or seven years old are frequently sent directly to vehicle recycling and scrap facilities.
