Model 3 / Maintenance

Tesla Model 3: how to turn on Car Wash Mode

2 min readReviewed 25 October 2026

CHECK YOUR CARTesla Model 3 2024+; North America online owner's manual, software 2026.32, checked 25 October 2026.

Tesla specifies touchless automatic washing. Exit the mode when finished.

THE QUICK ANSWER

With the vehicle stationary and not charging, open Controls > Service > Car Wash Mode.

Step by step

1Prepare before entryStop and end charging if connected. For an automatic wash, make sure the vehicle is locked; Car Wash Mode disables walk-away locking.
2Enable the modeSelect Car Wash Mode in Controls > Service.
3Use conveyor settings only when requiredFor a suitable wash needing free roll, press the brake and select Enable Free Roll; follow the operator instructions.

Tick steps as you go. Your progress stays in this tab.

What does it change?+

It closes windows, locks the charge port and disables several automatic functions, including wipers.

SOURCES & SCOPE

Written from the official references below, reviewed on 25 October 2026. This is a source-based guide, not a claim of hands-on vehicle testing.

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