How Summon Works on Tesla Vehicles
Summon lets a Tesla move slowly forward or backward outside the driver's line of sight using parking sensors, cameras, and onboard navigation data. The system relies on Tesla's Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) hardware stack, which processes real-time obstacle detection to avoid collisions. According to Tesla, Summon is designed for short-distance maneuvers in private parking lots and driveways, not for public roads or highways. Tesla states that drivers must always maintain awareness and keep the system within their line of sight while it operates.
The feature is available on Model S, Model X, Model 3, and Model Y vehicles equipped with the appropriate Autopilot or FSD package. Tesla has progressively updated Summon through over-the-air software releases, improving path planning and obstacle avoidance. The latest versions use vision-based neural networks and ultrasonic sensors to detect curbs, walls, and stationary objects. Summon speed is limited to a low walking pace, and the vehicle stops automatically if it detects an obstruction or if the driver releases the controller.
How to Enable and Use Summon
To use Summon, open the Tesla mobile app on iOS or Android, ensure the vehicle is in Park, and tap the Summon icon on the app screen. You can also activate Summon from the in-car touchscreen by tapping the Controls menu, then selecting Summon. Tesla recommends using Summon only on flat, well-lit surfaces with clear visibility and no pedestrians or moving vehicles nearby. The vehicle moves in the direction you swipe on the app screen or press the controller button, and it stops when you release the input.
Smart Summon, part of the FSD package, allows the vehicle to navigate to your location autonomously while you remain outside and within visual range. To start Smart Summon, open the mobile app, select the vehicle, and press the Smart Summon button. Tesla advises that drivers stay within 200 feet of the car and monitor its path continuously. The system uses GPS, navigation maps, and camera data to route around obstacles, but it may pause or stop if conditions become complex or unclear.
Requirements, Limitations, and Safety Notes
Hardware and Software Requirements
Summon requires a Tesla vehicle with Autopilot or Full Self-Driving capability, which depends on the installed hardware suite, either HW2.5 or HW3 or later. The mobile app version must be up to date, and the vehicle's software must be current to access the latest Summon improvements. Tesla notes that older vehicles or those without the required hardware cannot receive Summon updates through software alone.
Safety and Usage Limits
Tesla emphasizes that Summon is a driver-assist feature and not a fully autonomous system. Drivers remain responsible for the vehicle's movement and must be prepared to stop it manually using the controller or by approaching the car. The system may not detect all obstacles, especially small or low objects, and may behave unpredictably in tight spaces or uneven terrain. Tesla advises against using Summon in crowded areas, on public roads, or in conditions that exceed the system's designed operating envelope.