How to Save $120/Year: Auto-Connect Your Tesla to Your Phone Hotspot

One of the best ways to save money on your Tesla is to opt out of the "Premium Connectivity" subscription and use your phone as a hotspot instead. However, turning your hotspot on manually every time you get in the car is a pain.

Here is how to automate it so your Tesla connects to the internet the second you sit in the driver's seat.

Step 1: Set up the Automation (iPhone)

1. Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone.

2. Tap the Automation tab at the bottom, then tap the + (plus) icon.

3. Scroll down and select Bluetooth.

4. Choose your Tesla from the list of devices.

5. Select "Is Connected" and "Run Immediately" (so you don't have to tap a notification).

6. Tap Next and select New Blank Automation.

7. Search for the action "Set Personal Hotspot" and turn it to On.

Step 2: Tell the Tesla to "Stay Connected"

By default, Teslas turn off Wi-Fi when you put the car in Drive. You need to change one setting in the car:

1. While parked, tap the Wi-Fi icon on your Tesla screen.

2. Connect to your phone's hotspot once.

3. Tap Wi-Fi Settings, find your phone's name, and check the box that says "Remain connected in Drive."

Step 3: The Result

Now, every time you press the brake pedal and the phone connects via Bluetooth, your hotspot turns on automatically. The car sees the Wi-Fi and stays connected while you drive. When you walk away, and the Bluetooth disconnects, you can set a second automation to turn the hotspot Off to save your phone's battery!