It's an awesome feeling to be able to transform your Tesla into a mobile gaming hub, and connecting a PS5 DualSense controller makes that experience even better! Let's get you set up to enjoy some gaming in your car.
Step 1: Prepare Your PS5 Controller for Pairing
First things first, let's get your PlayStation 5 DualSense controller ready to connect. This involves putting it into a special "pairing mode" so your Tesla can discover it.
Sub-heading: Clearing Previous Connections (Optional but Recommended)
If your PS5 controller has been connected to other devices recently (like your PlayStation 5 console, a PC, or a phone), it's a good idea to clear those connections first. While not always strictly necessary, it can prevent potential conflicts and ensure a smoother pairing process with your Tesla. To do this:
Turn off your PS5 console (if applicable).
Press and hold the PS button on your controller until the light bar turns off. This ensures the controller is powered down.
Sub-heading: Activating Pairing Mode
Now, let's put the DualSense controller into its Bluetooth pairing mode:
Locate the Create button and the PS button: The Create button is the small, elongated button located to the left of the touchpad, and the PS button is the PlayStation logo button in the center, below the touchpad.
Press and hold both the Create button and the PS button simultaneously.
Continue holding both buttons until the light bar on your PS5 controller starts rapidly flashing white. This rapid flashing indicates that the controller is now in pairing mode and actively searching for a device to connect with.
Step 2: Accessing Bluetooth Settings in Your Tesla
Now that your PS5 controller is in pairing mode, it's time to tell your Tesla to start looking for it!
Sub-heading: Navigating the Tesla Infotainment System
Ensure your Tesla is in Park (P). For safety reasons, Tesla's infotainment system will often restrict certain functions, including gaming and Bluetooth pairing, while the vehicle is in motion.
On your Tesla's large touchscreen display, tap the Car icon (usually in the bottom left corner).
From the main menu that appears, look for and tap the Bluetooth icon or the Bluetooth settings option. This will open the Bluetooth menu.
Sub-heading: Initiating a Device Search
Within the Bluetooth settings:
You should see an option like "Add New Device" or "Start Search." Tap this option.
Your Tesla will now begin scanning for available Bluetooth devices in its vicinity.
Step 3: Connecting Your PS5 Controller to Your Tesla
This is where the magic happens! Your Tesla should now be able to detect your PS5 controller.
Sub-heading: Identifying Your Controller
After initiating the search, you should see "DualSense Wireless Controller" appear in the list of available devices on your Tesla's screen.
Tap on "DualSense Wireless Controller" to select it.
Sub-heading: Completing the Connection
Your Tesla will attempt to establish a connection with the controller. This usually takes just a few seconds.
Once connected, the light bar on your PS5 controller should stop its rapid flashing and turn into a solid color, typically a steady blue or another assigned color, indicating a successful connection.
On your Tesla's screen, the "DualSense Wireless Controller" status should also change to "Connected" or something similar.
Congratulations! Your PS5 controller is now paired with your Tesla!
Step 4: Enjoying Games in Tesla Arcade
With your controller connected, you're all set to dive into the Tesla Arcade!
Sub-heading: Launching Tesla Arcade
From your Tesla's main display, navigate back to the main menu (if you've left it) and tap the Arcade icon (often looks like a game controller or joystick).
This will open the Tesla Arcade, where you can browse the available games.
Sub-heading: Playing Games with Your PS5 Controller
Select any game that supports external controllers. Many of Tesla's built-in games are compatible.
You should now be able to use your PS5 DualSense controller to navigate the game menus and play the games themselves. The responsiveness is generally quite good, offering a smooth gaming experience.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter any issues during the pairing process, don't worry! Here are some common troubleshooting steps:
Ensure sufficient charge: Make sure your PS5 controller has enough battery life. A low battery can sometimes prevent successful pairing.
Restart both devices: Try turning off your PS5 controller and then turning it back on. You can also try a soft reset of your Tesla's infotainment system (hold down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the screen reboots).
Forget the device: If the controller previously attempted to connect but failed, or if it's acting erratically, try "forgetting" the device in your Tesla's Bluetooth settings and starting the pairing process from Step 1 again.
Proximity: Ensure your PS5 controller is relatively close to the Tesla's center console during the pairing process.
Tesla Software Update: Ensure your Tesla's software is up to date. Newer software versions often bring improved compatibility and features. Tesla notably added dedicated PS5 DualSense support with the 2023.26 software update.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to check if my Tesla has the necessary software update for PS5 controller support?
You can check your Tesla's software version by going to "Software" in the main menu on your touchscreen. Look for version 2023.26 or later, as this update brought official Bluetooth game controller support, with specific optimization for the PS5 DualSense.
How to disconnect the PS5 controller from my Tesla?
To disconnect, go to your Tesla's Bluetooth settings, find the "DualSense Wireless Controller" in your paired devices list, and select the option to "Forget Device" or "Disconnect." You can also simply turn off the controller by holding the PS button until its lights go out.
How to know which Tesla Arcade games support controllers?
Most Tesla Arcade games are designed with controller support in mind. When you launch a game, it will typically indicate if a controller is required or recommended. You'll quickly find out by trying to navigate with the controller once connected.
How to charge my PS5 controller in the Tesla?
You can charge your PS5 controller using a USB-C cable plugged into one of your Tesla's USB ports. For newer Tesla models, the USB port in the glove box is often the only one that supports data transfer and charging, while center console ports might be for charging only.
How to use multiple PS5 controllers with a Tesla?
Tesla vehicles generally support multiple Bluetooth controllers, though the exact number can vary. You would follow the same pairing steps for each additional controller. Keep in mind that not all games in the Tesla Arcade support multiplayer.
How to troubleshoot if my PS5 controller isn't appearing in the Bluetooth search?
Ensure the controller is properly in pairing mode (rapidly flashing white light). If it still doesn't appear, try restarting both your Tesla's infotainment system and the controller. Move closer to the screen if you're not already.
How to update the firmware of my PS5 controller if I don't have a PS5?
You can update your PS5 DualSense controller's firmware using a PC or Mac. Sony provides a "Firmware updater for DualSense wireless controller" application that you can download from their official PlayStation support website.
How to play games on a Tesla while driving?
For safety, Tesla's Arcade games are only accessible when the vehicle is in Park (P). Playing games while driving is illegal and extremely dangerous.
How to use a wired PS5 controller with Tesla?
While Bluetooth is the primary and recommended method, you can sometimes use a wired connection via a USB-C cable. However, Bluetooth is generally more convenient and reliable for gaming in a Tesla. For some newer vehicles, only the glove box USB port may support data for controllers.
How to improve gaming performance with a PS5 controller in Tesla?
Ensure your Tesla's software is up to date, as newer versions often bring performance optimizations. While latency is generally low with Bluetooth, ensure there are no other active Bluetooth devices causing interference if you experience lag.
