With the Tesla Model Y being one of the most popular electric cars on the market, it’s no surprise that it has become a target for car thieves. Tesla vehicles come equipped with advanced security features like Sentry Mode and Dashcam recording, but it’s essential to fully understand how to use them effectively. In this article, we’ll cover the best ways to secure your Tesla, common tactics thieves use, and how you can protect your car from theft. I’ll also share a recent experience from my community where thieves attempted to break into cars, and the one simple mistake that disabled my Tesla’s Sentry Mode recording.
Why Teslas Are at Risk for Theft
Tesla’s sleek design and cutting-edge technology make it a desirable vehicle for both drivers and thieves. While Tesla vehicles have robust built-in security features, they are still vulnerable to:
• Handle-Pulling Tactics: Thieves often roam neighborhoods, pulling on door handles to see if a vehicle is unlocked. Tesla’s flush door handles may give owners a sense of safety, but some thieves are familiar with how the handles work and take advantage of unlocked cars.
• Signal Relays: Some thieves use signal relay devices to intercept the communication between your Tesla key fob or phone and the car, allowing them to unlock the vehicle remotely.
Recent Incident: Thieves Targeting Teslas in My Community
Just last week, a group of car thieves tried pulling handles on all cars in my community parking lot, including my Tesla Model Y. Fortunately, I had Sentry Mode enabled, which immediately alerted me and deterred them. However, this incident was a wake-up call for how vigilant we need to be, especially in community parking areas where multiple cars are at risk at the same time.
How to Set Up and Use Sentry Mode
Sentry Mode is one of the most effective deterrents against theft. When enabled, your Tesla uses its cameras and sensors to monitor the surroundings and will trigger an alert if suspicious activity is detected.
Steps to Enable Sentry Mode:
1. Go to your Tesla’s Control Menu on the touchscreen.
2. Navigate to the Safety & Security section.
3. Toggle Sentry Mode to “On.”
You can also choose to exclude certain locations, like home or work, if you don’t want Sentry Mode active in those areas. However, I recommend enabling it wherever possible to add an extra layer of protection, especially in public or shared spaces.
How Sentry Mode Works:
• Alert Mode: If someone approaches your Tesla, the cameras start recording, and the touchscreen displays a warning that Sentry Mode is activated.
• Alarm Mode: If a significant threat is detected (e.g., someone breaks a window), the car alarm activates, and the vehicle will increase recording quality.
Adding a Dashcam for Continuous Recording
Tesla’s built-in Dashcam feature allows you to record footage from the car’s cameras while driving, which can be crucial in accidents or theft attempts. It uses the same cameras as Sentry Mode but requires a properly formatted USB drive.
How to Set Up Dashcam Recording:
1. Install a USB Drive: You’ll need a USB drive with at least 64GB of storage. I installed a 2TB drive formatted in exFAT, which is compatible with larger storage devices.
2. Name the Drive: I named mine “TESLADRIVE” to keep it simple, but any name will work as long as it’s formatted properly.
3. Create a Folder: The critical step is creating a folder called “TeslaCam” at the root level of the USB drive. Without this folder, the Dashcam and Sentry Mode won’t record.
Personal Experience: Missing Folder Structure
A few months ago, I noticed my Sentry Mode recordings weren’t working, and I couldn’t figure out why. It turns out the drive lacked the required folder structure. Once I added the “TeslaCam” folder, everything worked perfectly. This small oversight cost me valuable footage during a suspicious incident, so make sure to double-check your drive’s setup.
Enabling MFA/2FA for Your Tesla Account
In addition to securing your Tesla physically, it’s essential to secure your Tesla account. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) or Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of protection, making it more difficult for someone to access your account even if they have your password.
Steps to Enable MFA/2FA:
1. Open the Tesla App or go to the Tesla website.
2. Navigate to your account settings.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication, following the on-screen prompts to add an authentication app like Google Authenticator or Authy.
4. Verify the setup to ensure that 2FA is working correctly.
This adds a layer of security by requiring a code from your authentication app every time you log in. It helps prevent unauthorized access to your car’s features, such as remote unlocking.
Installing Additional Trackers for Extra Security
Another precaution you can take is installing additional trackers, such as Apple AirTags, Tile Pro, or a more traditional GPS tracker. While Teslas have built-in tracking through the Tesla app, adding extra trackers provides redundancy and peace of mind.
How to Install Additional Trackers:
• Apple AirTag: You can hide an AirTag in a discreet place in your Tesla, such as in the trunk or under a seat. This will allow you to track the car’s location via the Find My app on iPhone.
• Tile Pro: Similar to AirTags, Tile Pro can be hidden inside the car, providing GPS tracking through the Tile app on both iOS and Android.
• Dedicated GPS Trackers: If you prefer a more traditional tracker with real-time GPS updates, devices like the Spytec GPS tracker can be installed in the car, offering detailed tracking and geofencing alerts.
Adding an extra tracker ensures that even if a thief disables Tesla’s built-in GPS system, you still have a backup way to locate your vehicle.
Becoming Vigilant: Extra Steps to Protect Your Tesla
In addition to Sentry Mode, Dashcam recording, and MFA, here are a few extra steps you can take to secure your Tesla:
• Use Pin to Drive: This feature requires a four-digit pin to start your Tesla, even if someone has access to your key or phone.
• Key Fob Signal Protection: Store your key fob in a Faraday pouch to prevent signal relay attacks.
• Regular Software Updates: Always keep your Tesla’s software updated, as Tesla frequently releases security enhancements.
• Install Physical Barriers: If possible, park in well-lit areas or gated parking spots. Physical deterrents make your car less of a target.
Conclusion
While Tesla provides powerful security features, it’s essential to stay proactive in protecting your vehicle from potential threats. Using Sentry Mode, maintaining proper Dashcam setup, enabling MFA/2FA, and adding additional trackers are simple steps that can significantly reduce the risk of your Tesla being targeted.
If you’re setting up your Dashcam, don’t forget the crucial step of creating the “TeslaCam” folder, and always ensure your USB drive is correctly formatted. Simple steps like these can make all the difference in securing your Tesla Model Y and keeping your investment safe.
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