Insert a formatted USB drive, enable Dashcam in Controls > Safety, then use the Dashcam icon or configured save trigger to preserve a clip and open the Viewer while parked.
Check that your vehicle has it.
Verified in Tesla's current Model 3 manual; camera hardware, market, configuration, options and software version can affect availability.
Does the documented scope match your car?
This check combines the verified year, any source-supported powertrain scope, source-named trim/package and required equipment. It does not read a VIN or factory build record.
Published availability and qualifications
Verified in Tesla's current Model 3 manual; camera hardware, market, configuration, options and software version can affect availability.
- 2026 Model 3 equipped with Dashcam cameras and USB storage
Know what kind of control to look for.
This original category diagram is an orientation aid, not a picture of your exact trim. Use the written labels and your vehicle manual to identify the real control.
Step by step.
- 01
Insert a Tesla-compatible, correctly formatted USB drive in the data-capable USB port.
- 02
Open Controls > Safety and set Dashcam to Auto, Manual or On Honk as desired.
- 03
Add Dashcam to My Apps for quick access if preferred.
- 04
When an event occurs, touch the Dashcam icon or use the selected save trigger to preserve the recent clip.
- 05
Park the vehicle, open the Dashcam app and select the recording in the Viewer.
Important limits
- Recordings are stored locally and are not automatically sent to Tesla.
- Obey local camera and privacy laws.
- Dashcam cannot record when it is Off or when usable storage is unavailable.
Quick checks.
- ✓If the icon shows an error, reseat the USB drive and confirm its required folder/format.
- ✓Use the touchscreen USB-format function only after backing up wanted clips.
- ✓Confirm the selected port supports data, not charging only.
What happened on your vehicle?
Your response is stored on this device. If you separately allow analytics, a non-account-linked guide/result event may also be measured. No VIN or personal information is requested.
Tesla Model 3 Owner's Manual — Dashcam
We use the written official source to determine the steps and applicability shown above.
Reviewed with a visible trail.
Scope and steps were checked by Car Cheat Codes Editorial Review. A guide is narrowed or corrected when the source does not support a broader claim.
- Published
- Last modified
- Source checked
Guide change history
- Initial verified publication.