After enabling Tesla Park Assist, a lot of folks get an error alert about the Park Assist not being available. By this, the car temporarily disables this feature.
Well, Tesla Park Assist unavailable alert pop in the car’s screen due to firmware issue, system failure, debris near the front ultrasonic sensor, or a disconnected/failed sensor.
To fix this, you’ll need to update the software, soft reset, and power off, clean the sensor, or connect/change the front ultrasonic sensor.
Don’t worry if you need a detailed explanation of the above troubleshooting methods as I’ll break this down here. Keep on Reading!
Causes and Fixes for Tesla Park Assist Unavailable Error!
If you see the Park Assist unavailable alert on the car’s touchscreen, find out the root causes before trying any fixes. Here are the possible reasons and their solutions:
Cause #1: Software Update Is on the Way
A lot of times the error alert pop on the screen to indicate the firmware mismatch or issue. It mostly occurs when software is coming to the car which needs to be downloaded. You only need to wait for the update and then download it on the car’s screen and Tesla App.
How to Fix?
To begin with, open the Tesla App on your phone and click on Software Update > Install or Yes. And then, you’ll see the car’s screen processing to start the update and the time will be shown in the Tesla App. Next, let it download completely.
Then, on the touchscreen, go to Controls > Software > Update Available > Software Update (orange/yellow alarm icon). After that, wait for it to download completely.
Cause #2: System Malfunctions
Tesla Park Assist unavailable after the update usually happens due to internal system bugs which cause this feature to not work. In that case, you’ll need to perform a soft reset and power off the car to fix the error.
How to Fix?
After you get inside the car, use the 2-scroll buttons on the steering wheel or yoke (based on model and configuration) for 10 seconds. Then, wait for the screen to go black and return.
Next, go to Controls > Safety and Security or Safety > Power Off option. After that, click on the Power Off bar and the car will go blank.
Do not touch any parts inside the car and let it be like this for 2 – 3 minutes. Then, press the brake pedals to wake it up. For a detailed explanation of the soft reset, check out the 2 button reset methods here.
Cause #3: Dirt Near the Front Ultrasonic Sensor
All Tesla cars contain 2 ultrasonic sensors (front and rear side) that work for Park Assist and other features. When the front ultrasonic sensor faces dirt or mud, the Park Assist feature gets unavailable. To resolve it, just clean the sensors in the usual manner.
How to Fix?
You’ll need to bring a soft lint-free cloth and wipe the sensor area in a circular motion. Then, be sure to tap it a little so that any tiny rock stuck near the front ultrasonic sensor drops down.
However, avoid using any sharp objects as these can harm the sensor. Plus, remove any sort of stickers or accessories installed near the sensor as these can block the sensor.
Cause #4: Disconnected or Faulty Front Ultrasonic Sensor
Most of the time, a loosen-up or bad front ultrasonic sensor can cause Park Assist to become unavailable. In that case, you’ll need to locate its spot and then tighten out the red plug.
How to Fix?
Start by hearing the chime noise near the front ultrasonic sensor. If you hear no sound, then it indicates either the sensor is bad, or the wire harness is disconnected.
Next, power off the car before doing anything. Then, open the hood and take out the top storage panel.
After that, grab a 10mm socket wrench and detach all the bolts from the storage cargo. Ensure to take out the rubber bolts with needle-nose pliers.
Then, detach the plug that goes to the board of storage cargo. Next, take out the storage cargo and keep it in a safe spot.
Note that the location of the front ultrasonic sensor is on the left side of the car which is easy to spot. Keep on pressing the sensor until it comes out from the frunk area.
Then, you’ll be able to see the red and black wire harness plug attached to the sensor. Once you find it, push the red lock area using some force to connect it to the sensor. After that, check the condition of the sensor.
If needed, remove the old sensor, and insert a new one after unplugging the red wire harness plug. Sometimes all series including the Tesla Model 3 Park Assist not working issue arises due to the faulty sensor. Afterward, put everything back in place by reversing the process.
Ending Notes
If Tesla Park Assist’s unavailable alert seems to bother you a lot, then ensure to try the above solutions. For that, be sure to buy the ultrasonic sensor as most of the time it’s the main culprit that causes this sort of issue.
Hope you find this guide helpful and don’t forget to try the methods. Catch you on the next guide with a new topic soon!
