You cannot directly "turn on FM" in a Tesla in the traditional sense, as Tesla vehicles do not have an integrated AM/FM radio tuner. Instead, they rely on internet-based streaming services for audio content, including a wide variety of music, podcasts, and news.
Step 1: Let's Get Started – Understanding Tesla's Audio System!
Hey there, fellow Tesla enthusiast! Are you wondering how to tune into your favorite radio stations in your sleek electric vehicle? It's a common question, especially for those transitioning from cars with traditional radio tuners. The first thing to understand is that Tesla takes a different approach to in-car entertainment. Unlike conventional vehicles that have dedicated AM/FM radio receivers built-in, Teslas primarily utilize internet connectivity for all their audio needs. This means no fiddling with dials or searching for frequencies in the old-fashioned way! Instead, you'll be exploring a world of streaming options. Ready to dive in?
 |
| How To Turn On Fm In Tesla |
Step 2: Exploring Your Audio Options in a Tesla
Since there's no "FM button," how do you get your audio fix? Tesla offers a robust suite of integrated audio applications that stream content directly to your car's impressive sound system.
2.1: TuneIn Radio – Your Go-To for "Radio Stations"
For those looking for traditional radio stations, TuneIn Radio is your primary solution. This app is pre-installed in your Tesla and offers a vast library of live radio stations from around the globe, covering a wide range of genres, news, talk shows, and sports.
-
How to access TuneIn:
-
On your Tesla's touchscreen, tap the "Music" icon (usually a musical note or similar symbol).
-
From the audio source options, select "TuneIn."
-
You'll then see various categories like "Local Radio," "Music," "News," and "Sports." You can also use the search bar to find specific stations by name, call sign, or location.
-
Tap on your desired station, and it will begin streaming. It's that simple!
-
2.2: Spotify, Apple Music, and Other Streaming Services – Music Galore!
Beyond traditional radio, Tesla integrates popular music streaming services directly into its infotainment system, providing an immense catalog of on-demand music.
-
Spotify: A perennial favorite for millions, Spotify offers personalized playlists, albums, and artists. If you have a Premium Spotify account, you can log in directly through your Tesla's screen.
-
Apple Music: For Apple enthusiasts, Apple Music is also integrated, allowing subscribers to access their entire library.
-
Tidal: Known for its high-fidelity audio, Tidal is another option for discerning audiophiles.
-
Slacker Radio (in some regions): While not as widely used for traditional "radio" as TuneIn, Slacker Radio can also provide curated music stations.
-
How to use these services:
-
Tap the "Music" icon on your touchscreen.
-
Select the desired streaming service (e.g., "Spotify," "Apple Music").
-
You'll be prompted to log in with your account credentials.
-
Once logged in, you can browse, search, and play music just like you would on your phone or computer.
-
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
2.3: Podcasts and Audiobooks – Listen to Your Heart's Content
Tesla also provides access to a variety of podcasts and audiobooks through its integrated apps or by using Bluetooth streaming from your phone.
-
Podcasts: Many podcasts are available directly through TuneIn or the dedicated Tesla Podcasts app.
-
Audiobooks: While there isn't a dedicated Audible or similar app built-in, you can easily stream audiobooks from your phone to your Tesla via Bluetooth.
Step 3: Leveraging Bluetooth for Non-Integrated Audio
What if your favorite local radio station isn't on TuneIn, or you use a different streaming service that isn't integrated into the Tesla system? That's where Bluetooth connectivity comes in handy!
3.1: Pairing Your Phone via Bluetooth
You can use your smartphone to play any audio content you desire and stream it wirelessly to your Tesla's speakers.
-
Steps to pair your phone:
-
On your Tesla's touchscreen, tap the Bluetooth icon (usually in the top right corner or accessible via the settings menu).
-
Select "Add New Device."
-
On your phone, go to your Bluetooth settings and search for available devices.
-
Select your Tesla from the list of devices.
-
Confirm the pairing code on both your phone and the Tesla screen.
-
Once paired, select your phone as the audio source on the Tesla screen (usually found under the "Music" icon, then "Bluetooth").
-
3.2: Streaming Content from Your Phone
Now that your phone is paired, you can:
-
Open any radio app on your phone (e.g., local FM station app, iHeartRadio, Pandora).
-
Start playing the audio on your phone.
-
The sound will automatically route through your Tesla's speakers. This is your workaround for any non-internet-based radio content!
Step 4: Optimizing Your Audio Experience
QuickTip: Read with curiosity — ask ‘why’ often.
To truly enjoy your audio in a Tesla, here are a few tips for optimizing your experience:
4.1: Understanding Connectivity Requirements
Remember, most of Tesla's audio functionality relies on an internet connection. This means:
-
You'll need an active Tesla Premium Connectivity subscription for features like live traffic visualization, satellite-view maps, video streaming, and most importantly for this topic, music streaming services (Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, etc.) and web Browse over cellular data. TuneIn generally works without Premium Connectivity, but cellular data for other streaming services is included with Premium Connectivity.
-
When connected to Wi-Fi, all features should work seamlessly.
-
In areas with poor cellular reception, streaming quality might be affected, or services might not load.
4.2: Utilizing Voice Commands
Tesla's voice commands are incredibly convenient for controlling your audio without taking your hands off the wheel.
-
Activate voice commands: Press the right scroll wheel on your steering wheel.
-
Examples of commands:
-
"Play The Beatles."
-
"Open TuneIn."
-
"Play [station name] on TuneIn."
-
"Next song."
-
"Volume up."
-
Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Audio Issues
Sometimes, even with the best technology, you might encounter minor hiccups. Here are some quick fixes for common audio issues:
-
No sound from a streaming service:
-
Check your internet connection. Is your Tesla connected to Wi-Fi or does it have good cellular signal?
-
Log out and back into the streaming service. Sometimes a simple re-authentication resolves the issue.
-
Restart the infotainment system. You can do this by holding down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the screen goes black and the Tesla logo reappears. This won't affect your driving.
-
-
Bluetooth connection problems:
-
Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both your phone and your Tesla.
-
Unpair and re-pair your device.
-
Restart both your phone and the Tesla's infotainment system.
-
-
TuneIn not loading stations:
-
Verify your internet connection.
-
Try a different station. The issue might be with a specific station's stream.
-
Restart the infotainment system.
-
Frequently Asked Questions
Tip: Write down what you learned.
How to get local radio stations in a Tesla?
You can get most local radio stations in a Tesla by using the TuneIn Radio app integrated into the car's infotainment system, which streams a vast array of global radio stations over the internet.
How to play AM radio in a Tesla?
AM radio is not directly supported in Tesla vehicles. You can look for AM stations that have an online stream available via TuneIn Radio or stream them from a phone app via Bluetooth.
How to use Spotify in a Tesla?
To use Spotify in a Tesla, tap the "Music" icon on your touchscreen, select "Spotify," and then log in with your Spotify Premium account credentials.
How to connect phone to Tesla for audio?
You can connect your phone to Tesla for audio by pairing it via Bluetooth. Go to Bluetooth settings on your Tesla, select "Add New Device," and then pair your phone.
How to stream audio from my phone to Tesla?
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
Once your phone is paired via Bluetooth, select your phone as the audio source on the Tesla's screen (under the "Music" icon, then "Bluetooth"), and then play any audio on your phone.
How to find specific radio stations on Tesla?
Within the TuneIn app on your Tesla, you can use the search bar to find specific radio stations by their name, call sign, or location.
How to improve audio quality in Tesla?
You can improve audio quality by selecting higher-quality streaming options (like Spotify Premium or Tidal HiFi), ensuring a strong internet connection, and adjusting the equalizer settings in your Tesla's audio menu.
How to listen to podcasts in a Tesla?
You can listen to podcasts in a Tesla through the TuneIn app, the integrated Tesla Podcasts app, or by streaming from a podcast app on your phone via Bluetooth.
How to control Tesla audio with voice commands?
To control Tesla audio with voice commands, press the right scroll wheel on your steering wheel and then speak commands like "Play [artist/song]," "Open TuneIn," or "Volume up."
How to fix no sound in Tesla streaming services?
If there's no sound, check your internet connection, try logging out and back into the streaming service, or perform a soft reset of the infotainment system by holding both scroll wheels on the steering wheel.
 |
This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
💡 Breath fresh Air with this Air Purifier with washable filter.
