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Keep Climate On, Pet Mode and Camp Mode: which to use

Published Oct 22, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026 · 4 min read · By VoltCoach

Three ways to keep the climate running while parked, and what makes each different.

Your car can keep the climate running after you get out. There are three modes, and each fits a different situation.

How to turn them on

Put the car in Park. On the climate controls screen, touch Keep Climate On, Pet Mode, or Camp Mode. You can turn on Pet Mode and Camp Mode from the Tesla app too by swiping up from the gray bar on the Climate screen. The car must not be in Low Power Mode.

Which one to use

• Keep Climate On: keeps the climate system running after you leave, for example to keep groceries cool on a hot day.
• Pet Mode: holds a comfortable cabin temperature for a pet and shows the temperature on the screen for people outside. You can watch the cabin in the app, which needs cell coverage on your phone and the car. The windows cannot be lowered while it is on, and you can set your pet's name and picture under Controls, Display, Customize Pet Mode.
• Camp Mode: keeps the cabin comfortable and powers devices through the USB ports and low-voltage outlet, with the screen on for media. It turns off Sentry Mode and the alarm, and Walk-Away Door Lock does not work while it is on.

How long they run

The climate system tries to keep your settings until you shift out of Park or turn it off. Keep Climate On and Camp Mode end in Low Power Mode. Pet Mode ends when the battery drops below 20%.

Good to know

• Avoid these modes when the battery is low. They draw from the main battery and reduce range over time.
• Software updates will not install while any of these modes is on.
• Never leave a child alone in the car. Pet Mode is for short periods only, and you are responsible for your pet's safety. Check local laws about leaving pets unattended.
• If you turn the climate off in the app, these modes stop.

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