How to Keep Your Tesla from Being Stolen

Introduction

Teslas are highly attractive cars—whether it’s their design, technology, or incredible acceleration, they inspire envy wherever you drive them. So why are stolen Teslas so rare? Read below the list of tips and tricks to keep your Tesla safe!

According to reports, Teslas have been among the least stolen vehicles in the USA for several years in a row.

But how can a car that can only be opened and started with the owner’s phone be so secure? If someone stole my phone and ran to my car, couldn’t they just drive away with it?

In this article, we will cover the main reasons and settings to ensure your Tesla remains safe!

1. Pin to Drive: The First Layer of Security

The Pin-to-Drive feature is a no-brainer; it’s a simple yet effective way to secure your Tesla. It’s also the easiest way to prevent your car from being stolen if someone steals your phone and tries to drive away with your vehicle. As an extra tip, the Pin-to-Drive pop-up appears in a different location on the screen each time, which helps avoid revealing the code based on any grease left on the screen when you type it.

Here is how I set up the pin to drive feature in my Tesla, simply go to the settings → Select Safety & Security tab → Then simply toggle the switch to enable the “Pin to Drive” → Set your 4 digits PIN and enter it a second time to confirm it.
Congrats! The pin to drive is now enabled and will be asked every time you start the car.

What if I forget it ? Simply access your Tesla App on your phone and disable it. For obvious security reasons you will be asked to re-login the app to disable that feature.

2. Premium Connectivity: Extra Security with Real-Time Monitoring

Premium connectivity is another useful way to enhance vigilance regarding your Tesla and provides an additional layer of security. We detailed all about it in our dedicated blog post.
If you want to learn more about premium connectivity and wether you should buy it or not, check our dedicated blog post.

3. Airtag in the Car: An External Tracking Tool

A simple way, several Tesla owners around me have already implemented is to hide an Airtag somewhere in the car. This adds another layer of security and localisation over the car's own localisation. As the Airtags localization system is slightly different it helps adding another layer of security.

4. Sentry Cam: Your Virtual Security Guard

Sentry mode is said to be one of the biggest reasons for Tesla security. Thanks to the cameras located all around your vehicle recording “events” whenever someone is getting close to your car helps greatly in enhancing your car safety. Being recorded does work to deter anyone from damaging or trying to break in your car.

And of course it goes along with that scary looking robot eye from the legendary Portal game.

Credit : Reddit

5. Windshield or Tinted Windows: Physical Deterrents

This way to deter theft from getting in your car is well known and present across all types of vehicles. A simple windshield cover on your car + tinted windows works really well. Teslas as every other cars are also provided with the classic trunk cover.

This is an easy fit to hide potentially valuable items deterring potential theft from getting in the car.

6. The Risk of Using Phone Key: A Potential Vulnerability

As quickly mentioned in the introduction, the phone key, while being an amazing feature that simplifies your life with the hand-free entry made possible through the bluetooth connection between your phone and the car. Can also turn around and ends up being an easy breach theft could use to steal your car.
That's why it is very important to add a Pin to drive on your Tesla.

7. View Live Camera of the Car: Real-Time Awareness

The "View Live Camera" feature in Tesla allows you to remotely monitor your vehicle's surroundings in real time through the Tesla app, providing enhanced security and peace of mind. This feature is particularly useful for keeping an eye on your car when parked in unfamiliar areas or when you receive Sentry Mode notifications. To activate live camera access, open the Tesla app, go to Security, and enable Sentry Mode Live Camera under Sentry Mode settings. With this feature enabled, you can view a live feed from your car’s cameras, offering real-time awareness of any potential threats or unusual activity around your vehicle.

Credit : Tesla

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Teslas come equipped with impressive security features, it’s essential to remain proactive to safeguard your vehicle. Utilizing features like PIN to Drive, Sentry Mode, and the live camera option can provide valuable layers of protection against theft. By taking these simple yet effective steps, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with driving a Tesla, knowing that you've done your part to keep your investment secure and being part of the safe Tesla owners community.

Bonus: Here's what you can do if someone actually stole your Tesla (and you might love it!)

Credit : Ryan Model Y