Sure, here is a lengthy post on how to get AM radio on a Tesla Model Y.
No AM Radio? No Problem! A Comprehensive Guide to Getting AM Stations in Your Tesla Model Y
Hey there, fellow Tesla enthusiast! So you've got yourself a sleek, high-tech Tesla Model Y, enjoying the silent acceleration and cutting-edge features. But then you realize something: your favorite AM radio station isn't there. You're not alone! Many Tesla owners, particularly those who rely on AM for traffic, news, or sports, discover that Tesla vehicles, including the Model Y, do not come equipped with a native AM radio tuner. This is a common characteristic of many electric vehicles, often attributed to electromagnetic interference from the electric powertrain that can disrupt AM signals. But don't fret! While it's true you won't find a traditional AM dial in your Model Y, there are several clever workarounds to get your beloved AM content. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understanding the "Why" (And Why It Doesn't Have to Be a Deal-Breaker)
Before we explore solutions, it's helpful to grasp why your Tesla Model Y lacks an AM tuner. As mentioned, electric vehicles generate a significant amount of electromagnetic interference (EMI) from their electric motors, power electronics, and high-voltage systems. AM radio, which relies on amplitude modulation, is particularly susceptible to this type of interference. Including an AM tuner would either result in a poor listening experience filled with static and noise, or require extensive and costly shielding, which Tesla (and other EV manufacturers) has opted against.
But here's the good news: The world of audio has evolved far beyond traditional broadcast radio. With the Model Y's advanced infotainment system and internet connectivity, you have access to a vast array of streaming services and apps that can deliver the same, or even better, content that you'd find on AM radio. Embrace the digital age, and you'll find a world of possibilities!
Step 2: Leveraging Your Tesla's Connectivity – The Smartest Way to Listen
This is by far the most practical and seamless method for getting AM content in your Model Y. Your Tesla's infotainment system is a powerful, internet-connected hub.
2.1 Using Streaming Radio Apps
Many AM stations, especially larger ones, simulcast their broadcasts online. This means you can listen to them through internet radio apps available in your Tesla.
Sub-step 2.1.1: Premium Connectivity is Your Friend (Often, But Not Always Necessary)
To fully utilize streaming apps over cellular data in your Tesla, you'll likely need Tesla Premium Connectivity. This subscription service provides in-car internet access for features like satellite-view maps, live traffic visualization, and importantly for us, in-car streaming music and media over cellular.
How to check/subscribe:
On your Model Y's touchscreen, tap "Controls" > "Upgrades."
If eligible, you'll see an option to subscribe to Premium Connectivity.
You can also manage your subscription through the Tesla app on your phone.
Note: Even without Premium Connectivity, you can still use these apps when connected to Wi-Fi. This is useful if you're parked and have access to a strong Wi-Fi signal.
Sub-step 2.1.2: The "Radio by TuneIn" App
TuneIn Radio is often pre-installed or readily available in Tesla's media player. This app aggregates thousands of radio stations from around the world, including many AM stations.
How to use:
From the Media Player screen, tap on the "Radio by TuneIn" source.
Use the search function (magnifying glass icon) to look for your desired AM station by name, call sign, or even frequency. Since it's streaming, the traditional AM frequency is just a descriptor, not a direct tuner setting.
Tip: You can often find local traffic, news, and sports stations easily this way.
Sub-step 2.1.3: Other Streaming Music Apps (if available and integrate AM content)
While TuneIn is the most direct for general radio, some music streaming services like LiveOne (formerly Slacker, which was previously integrated into Teslas) might also offer spoken-word content or podcasts that originated on AM. Explore the available streaming services in your Tesla's media app tray.
2.2 Web Browser Streaming
If a particular AM station isn't available through a dedicated app, most stations have a live stream on their website.
Sub-step 2.2.1: Accessing the Web Browser
On your Tesla's touchscreen, locate the web browser app (usually in the app launcher at the bottom).
Sub-step 2.2.2: Navigating to the Station's Website
Type in the website address of your desired AM radio station.
Once on the website, look for a "Listen Live" or "Live Stream" button.
Sub-step 2.2.3: Playing and Minimizing
Start the audio playback.
Crucially: You can then minimize the web browser, and the audio will continue to play in the background through the media Miniplayer. This allows you to use other functions on your touchscreen while listening.
Step 3: Bringing Your Own Device – The Bluetooth Method
This is a straightforward and reliable fallback if you prefer to use your phone or another portable device.
Sub-step 3.1: Install a Radio App on Your Phone
Download a reputable radio streaming app onto your smartphone (e.g., TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Audacy, specific station apps). Many of these apps offer a vast selection of AM stations.
Sub-step 3.2: Connect Your Phone to Your Tesla via Bluetooth
On your Tesla's touchscreen, go to "Bluetooth" settings.
On your phone, ensure Bluetooth is enabled and it's discoverable.
Pair your phone with your Tesla.
Sub-step 3.3: Play Audio from Your Phone
Open your chosen radio app on your phone and select your desired AM station.
The audio will then stream wirelessly through your Tesla's excellent sound system.
Benefit: This method also works when your Tesla doesn't have a cellular signal, provided your phone does.
Step 4: The Less Common, More Involved Solutions (External Tuners)
While the above methods are generally sufficient and recommended, some enthusiasts might explore external hardware. Be aware that these solutions are often more complex, less integrated, and may not offer the seamless experience you expect from a Tesla.
Sub-step 4.1: Portable AM/FM/Weather Radio with Aux-Out
You could purchase a portable AM/FM/weather radio that has an auxiliary audio output (headphone jack).
Connect this radio's aux-out to a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter (if your Model Y has USB-C ports and you have a 3.5mm aux input adapter for the Tesla), and then plug it into one of your Tesla's USB ports.
Challenge: The Model Y does not have a traditional 3.5mm aux input. You would need to rely on a USB audio input solution, which might require specific drivers or compatibility. This is highly unlikely to be a plug-and-play solution.
Alternative: Some portable radios might have Bluetooth output, allowing you to connect them directly to your Tesla's Bluetooth as described in Step 3.
Sub-step 4.2: Dedicated Car AM Tuner (Highly Impractical for Tesla)
In the past, aftermarket AM tuners existed for cars that lacked them. However, integrating such a device seamlessly into a Tesla's highly proprietary infotainment system is extremely difficult, if not impossible, for the average user. It would likely require custom wiring, software integration that Tesla doesn't support, and could potentially void your warranty. This is generally not a recommended path.
Step 5: Staying Up-to-Date (Software Updates)
While it's unlikely Tesla will add a dedicated AM tuner due to the aforementioned EMI challenges, software updates can sometimes bring improvements to streaming media functionality or new app integrations.
Sub-step 5.1: Regularly Check for Software Updates
On your Tesla's touchscreen, go to "Controls" > "Software."
Ensure your vehicle is connected to Wi-Fi for faster and more reliable downloads of updates.
Sub-step 5.2: Review Release Notes
Whenever a new software version is installed, take a moment to read the release notes. They will inform you of any new media features, app integrations, or improvements that might indirectly benefit your ability to access AM content.
By following these steps, you'll discover that while your Tesla Model Y may not have an old-school AM dial, it offers plenty of modern, convenient ways to keep up with your favorite AM programming! Enjoy the drive!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check if my Tesla Model Y has Premium Connectivity?
You can check your Premium Connectivity status on your Tesla's touchscreen by going to "Controls" > "Upgrades" or through the Tesla app on your phone under the "Upgrades" section.
How to connect my phone's Bluetooth to my Tesla Model Y?
On your Tesla's touchscreen, tap the Bluetooth icon at the top of the screen or go to "Controls" > "Bluetooth." On your phone, enable Bluetooth and select your Tesla from the list of available devices to pair.
How to find specific AM radio stations on TuneIn in my Tesla?
Open the "Radio by TuneIn" app from your Tesla's media player, then tap the magnifying glass icon to search for your desired AM station by name, call sign, or approximate frequency.
How to play audio from the web browser in the background on my Tesla Model Y?
Start playing audio from a website in the Tesla's web browser, then simply minimize the browser window. The audio will continue to play in the background through the media Miniplayer.
How to use a portable AM radio with my Tesla Model Y?
For most practical purposes, you would need a portable AM radio with Bluetooth output, which you can then pair with your Tesla like any other Bluetooth device. A direct wired "aux-in" connection is generally not supported.
How to improve streaming quality for AM radio apps in my Tesla?
Ensure you have good cellular or Wi-Fi signal strength. If you have Premium Connectivity, a stronger cellular signal will provide better streaming. If relying on Wi-Fi, ensure you're in range of a strong network.
How to update the software on my Tesla Model Y?
Connect your Model Y to a strong Wi-Fi network. The vehicle will automatically download available updates. You can check for and initiate installations under "Controls" > "Software" on your touchscreen.
How to adjust the volume for media playback in my Tesla Model Y?
You can adjust the volume by rolling the left scroll wheel on your steering wheel up or down, or by touching the <> arrows next to the speaker icon on the bottom corner of the touchscreen.
How to add a radio station to favorites in my Tesla Model Y?
When listening to a station (either through the native FM tuner or a streaming app like TuneIn), look for a star icon or a "Favorite" option on the media player screen and tap it to add the station to your favorites list.
How to troubleshoot if an internet radio app isn't working in my Tesla?
First, check your internet connectivity (cellular or Wi-Fi). Try rebooting your Tesla's infotainment system (hold down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the screen goes black, then release). You can also try force-quitting and reopening the app if that option is available.
You can learn more about how to use the radio features in your Tesla Model Y by watching this video:
