If you’ve recently leased or purchased a Tesla Model Y through Vehicle Solutions Australia, you’re likely eager to explore the capabilities of Autopilot. As electric vehicles continue to gain ground across Australia (bolstered by government incentives and growing EV infrastructure) the Model Y stands out for its impressive range and performance, but for its powerful Autopilot technology.

At Vehicle Solutions Australia, we’ve helped thousands of Australians transition into EV ownership through our trusted, government-approved Novated Leasing program. Our expertise in electric vehicle solutions ensures you get accurate, up-to-date guidance on using cutting-edge features like Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot.

So, today, let’s break down, in practical detail, how to use Autopilot Tesla Model Y safely, legally, and effectively, based on real-world experience, regulatory insights, and Tesla’s official documentation.

Tesla Autopilot: What It Is and How It Works

Before seeing how to use Tesla Model Y Autopilot, it’s important to understand what the system actually does. Tesla Autopilot is an advanced driver assistance system designed to reduce the overall workload on the driver by controlling acceleration, braking, and steering in marked lanes. It uses a mix of cameras, radar, ultrasonic sensors, and advanced neural networks to perceive the surrounding traffic, vehicles, and road conditions.

There are three key Autopilot packages currently offered in Australia:

  1. Basic Autopilot (standard on all Tesla Model Y vehicles)
  2. Enhanced Autopilot (optional upgrade)
  3. Full Self-Driving (FSD) Capability (additional cost and still under beta for most users)

Each of these tiers adds more features and automation, though all still require driver supervision.

Does the Tesla Model Y Come with Autopilot?

Yes, all new Tesla Model Y vehicles delivered in Australia include Basic Autopilot as standard. This package includes two core features:

  • Traffic Aware Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts the car’s speed based on the traffic ahead, maintaining a safe following distance.
  • Autosteer: Helps steer the car within clearly marked lanes.

If you’re on a highway or a multi-lane road, these features can significantly reduce your driving fatigue.

How to Use Autopilot on Tesla Model Y

Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to use Autopilot on Tesla Model Y:

  1. Start Driving Manually: Begin by manually driving the vehicle until you’re on a road with clearly marked lanes, such as a motorway or freeway.
  2. Activate Autopilot:
    • Pull down the gear stalk (right side of the steering wheel) twice in quick succession.
    • A steering wheel icon appears on the screen when Autopilot is active.
  3. Hands on Wheel: Keep your hands on the wheel at all times. Tesla requires occasional input to confirm driver attention.
  4. Disengage Autosteer:
    • Either manually brake or turn the steering wheel slightly.

    • You can also push the gear stalk up once to fully disengage Autopilot.

Here’s a video tutorial that explains the process visually:

https://youtu.be/S3NtFCFlxdE?si=BpDkKKNlOEZYTik7

For context, imagine you’re heading from Sydney to Canberra. Once you’re on the M31, you can engage Autopilot to manage the vehicle for large stretches, while staying alert and ready to retake control.

Traffic Aware Cruise Control: Keep Distance with Precision

Traffic Aware Cruise Control is extremely useful in stop-and-go city traffic and highway cruising. Here’s how to get the most out of it:

  • Set your preferred following distance (1 to 7 levels) in the settings menu.
  • Adjust speed with the steering wheel thumbwheel.
  • The car will automatically slow down when other cars ahead reduce speed.

For example, while commuting through Brisbane’s Gateway Motorway, Traffic Aware Cruise Control can help avoid constant braking and acceleration, improving energy efficiency and safety.

Using Enhanced Autopilot Tesla Model Y

Upgrading to Enhanced Autopilot unlocks features that bring even more convenience to long-distance driving and city navigation:

  • Auto Lane Change: Engage the turn signal, and the car will check for blind spot and nearby other cars, then change lanes if safe.
  • Navigate on Autopilot: Follows GPS routes, suggests and performs lane changes, and exits highways automatically.
  • Autopark: The system detects parking spaces and handles both parallel and perpendicular parking.
  • Summon & Smart Summon: Use the Tesla app to pull your vehicle in or out of tight locations.

For example, on Melbourne’s Monash Freeway, Auto Lane Change and Navigate on Autopilot are especially useful when dealing with complex interchanges and overtaking.

Safety Features That Support Autopilot

Tesla has integrated multiple safety features to support Autopilot, making the driving experience safer:

  • Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts you if a car is detected in your blind spot.
  • Emergency Lane Departure Avoidance: Auto-steers the vehicle if you’re about to leave a lane without indicating.
  • Collision Warning & Emergency Braking: Warns of imminent collisions and can apply the brake.

These systems use external sensors and continuously monitor traffic, lanes, and other cars, making Autopilot not just convenient, but supportive of road safety.

How Do I Know If My Tesla Model Y Has FSD Beta?

To confirm if your Model Y is FSD Beta-ready:

  1. Go to Settings > Software on your infotainment screen.
  2. If Full Self-Driving is enabled, it will be listed under Autopilot.
  3. FSD Beta requires driver approval, has region-based access, and is still in controlled rollout phases.

Note: As of 2025, FSD Beta is not fully approved for use across Australia and remains subject to regulatory guidance.

Tips to Use Tesla Autopilot Correctly and Safely

  • Stay Engaged: Never treat Autopilot as a self-driving system. Always be ready to take over.
  • Monitor Weather: Rain or poor visibility can affect sensors.
  • Watch for Lane Markings: Faded lines or construction zones can confuse the system.
  • Avoid Urban Areas: Use Autopilot primarily on clearly marked roads or highways.
  • Customise Settings: Adjust responsiveness, acceleration, and steering sensitivity from the settings menu.

Vehicle Solutions Australia: Smarter EV Ownership

When you’re ready to step into smarter, greener vehicle ownership, Vehicle Solutions Australia has you covered. Our Tesla Novated Leasing options are transparent, cost-effective, and tax-free for electric vehicles under current government incentives. With access to our sister company Motorbuys, you can even purchase your car at competitive fleet pricing.

Take advantage of the EV revolution; choose a Tesla Model Y and harness the full power of Tesla Autopilot and other EV features.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I use Autopilot on suburban streets?

Autopilot is optimized for highways and major roads with clear lane markings. Use caution on suburban roads.

Will Autopilot stop the car completely in traffic?

Yes. When using Traffic Aware Cruise Control, the car will stop and resume driving as traffic moves.

Can Autopilot detect motorcycles and bicycles?

Tesla’s visual processing can detect most moving objects, including bikes, but always monitor surroundings manually.

Can Enhanced Autopilot be added later?

Yes, you can upgrade via the Tesla app. Prices vary and software upgrades apply instantly.

Is Tesla Autopilot legal in all Australian states?

Basic and Enhanced Autopilot features are currently legal across Australia, but FSD Beta remains under review.

For detailed, real-world leasing options and to access the best EV deals in Australia, check our new Tesla cars in stock.