Tesla is known for pushing the boundaries of automotive technology, with self-driving capabilities, built-in dash cameras, and advanced safety features. One of the most common questions people ask is: how many cameras does a Tesla have?
How Many Cameras Does a Tesla Have? A Complete Guide
In this article, we’ll break down the number of cameras, where they’re located, and how Tesla uses them for both driving assistance and security.
How Many Cameras Does a Tesla Have?
Every modern Tesla vehicle is equipped with eight exterior cameras that provide a 360-degree view around the car. These cameras are part of Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, as well as its built-in dash cam and security features.
So, if you’ve been wondering how many cameras does a Tesla have, the answer is eight cameras on the outside—plus interior cameras in some models.
Tesla Camera Placement
Here’s where the cameras are located on Tesla vehicles:
- Three front-facing cameras – Located near the rearview mirror for wide, narrow, and standard views.
- Two side cameras (front fenders) – One on each front fender, covering blind spots.
- Two side cameras (B-pillars) – Positioned near the driver and passenger doors for side monitoring.
- One rear camera – Above the license plate, used for reversing and rear monitoring.
Interior Camera (Model 3, Model Y, and newer models)
In addition to the eight exterior cameras, newer Teslas like the Model 3 and Model Y also include an interior camera above the rearview mirror. This is used for driver monitoring and added security.
That brings the total to nine cameras in some Tesla models.
What Are Tesla Cameras Used For?
Tesla’s cameras serve multiple purposes:
- Autopilot & Full Self-Driving (FSD) – Cameras detect vehicles, pedestrians, traffic signs, and lane markings.
- Dashcam Recording (TeslaCam) – Functions as a built-in dash cam to capture driving footage.
- Sentry Mode – Uses cameras as a security system, recording potential threats when the car is parked.
- Driver Monitoring – Interior cameras track driver attention to ensure safe use of Autopilot.
Are Tesla Cameras Always Recording?
Tesla cameras are always active, but they don’t always save footage. Recording depends on the feature in use:
- While Driving – Dashcam records if enabled.
- While Parked – Cameras record if Sentry Mode is turned on.
- When Off – Cameras are not actively recording unless security features are enabled.
Key Takeaway
So, how many cameras does a Tesla have? Every Tesla has eight exterior cameras, while some models also include an interior camera, bringing the total to nine. These cameras are the foundation of Tesla’s Autopilot, Full Self-Driving, and advanced security features.
FAQs
1. How many cameras does a Tesla Model 3 have?
It has eight exterior cameras plus one interior camera, for a total of nine.
2. How many cameras does a Tesla Model Y have?
Like the Model 3, the Model Y has eight exterior cameras and one interior camera.
3. Do all Tesla models have interior cameras?
No, only newer models (Model 3, Model Y, and updated versions of Model S and X) feature interior cameras.
4. Are Tesla cameras always recording?
Not 24/7. They record while driving (if Dashcam is enabled) and while parked (if Sentry Mode is on).
5. What are Tesla cameras used for?
They support Autopilot, Full Self-Driving, security (Sentry Mode), and built-in dash cam recording.