Tesla has started rolling out version 4.51.5 of its iOS app, and the update quietly adds a handy feature that works a lot like Apple’s Precision Finding for AirTag users. When you open the app, the Location button now shows a live directional view that points straight to your parked car. An arrow guides you in real time, and the app shows the exact distance as you move, reports Tesla North.
The release notes spell it out clearly. “Follow the arrow on the Location row to find your car”. Owners are seeing the feature work on vehicles with Hardware 3 and newer.
It is a small change, but it makes parking lots and unfamiliar areas a lot easier to deal with. Tesla has been adding more phone based tools over the years, and this feels like one of the smoother ones yet. The update also seems to prepare the app for Tesla’s big 2025 Holiday Update that was announced last week.
The location arrow in version 4.51.5 works when the car is on software version 2025.44.25 or later, which is part of the Holiday Update rollout. It is available on all current Tesla models that can receive this update, including:
Vehicles with Intel or Ryzen based hardware are fully supported. Some early Model S and X units with older MCU1 hardware may not get the full update, but no specific blocks have appeared for this feature.
The arrow shows up when you are close to your car, usually within 100 to 200 feet.
Behind the scenes, Tesla combines GPS from your phone, the car’s GPS, and your phone’s motion sensors. Newer iPhones with Ultra Wideband may get more precise results at close range, similar to an AirTag.
Only newer Teslas have Ultra Wideband. The 2024 Model 3 (Highland), 2021-and-newer Model S and Model X, and the Cybertruck support UWB, while older Model 3 and Model Y do not, and the 2025 refreshed Model Y (Juniper) has it as well.
The feature works best outdoors with a clear signal, but the battery impact on your phone is low. This feature could play a part in upcoming expansion of Tesla’s Robotaxi, allowing riders to easily locate vehicles. Also, Tesla’s upcoming “Banish” feature aims to drop you off at a location (such as a store) then go park itself. This update should let owners easily find their cars, but they can also summon their car to pick them up too with the feature.
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