Premium Connectivity: what to check before subscribing or buying a Tesla

You don’t have to buy Premium Connectivity just to get a card on your Tesla screen. Tesla points out that basic navigation, traffic-driven route construction and information about available Supercharger racks are all part of Standard Connectivity. The paid package adds, among other things, the satellite view of the map, traffic visualization and streaming multimedia over the mobile network. Before you pay, determine which of these options you really need.

Check your car first.

In the Tesla app, select the car → Upgrades → Software Upgrades. If the subscription is available for the car, there will be Premium Connectivity; the actual price Tesla offers to watch in the app or on the screen of the car. Availability depends on model, version, model year, order date and country. Do not transfer terms from the UK support page to another market without checking your account.

For an active subscription, open Upgrades → Manage. Tesla also offers to test it on the car screen in Controls → Software. Some cars may have special conditions or free access on an old order; it is better to find them in your account, and not by advertising a similar car.

What will remain without Premium?

Tesla Standard Connectivity retains basic maps and navigation. Automotive software updates are also not dependent on premium connectivity. Streaming music and video over a mobile network refers to additional features; some features are available via Wi-Fi or a phone hotspot, and third-party services may require a separate subscription. In addition, some media functions depend on the hardware configuration of the car.

If you only need a route to the Supercharger, start with what already works in your car. If the satellite layer of the map, map traffic display, or streaming media is important without handing out internet from your phone, compare the subscription price to your actual use. Premium Connectivity does not include a paid account for every music service.

If you buy a Tesla with mileage

Ask the seller to show Connectivity status in the Tesla Account and see if the free access to the car applies or if it’s a paid subscription. Tesla reports that when you sell and remove a car from the seller’s account, the associated paid subscription is canceled; you can not transfer it to another car. Trial period and benefits depend on the specific car and order conditions.

After transferring the car to your Tesla Account, check the availability of the subscription again. Do not pay for it in the ad until you see the right option and price for your car. Save your account in the subscription management section; if the service is not needed, cancel your subscription until the next payment period.