Alright, let's get you set up with SiriusXM in your Tesla Model 3! It's a fantastic addition for those long drives, offering a huge variety of ad-free music, live sports, news, talk shows, and comedy. While older Model S and X vehicles had satellite receivers, the Model 3 (and Model Y/Cybertruck) utilizes a streaming-based SiriusXM app, which means you'll need Tesla's Premium Connectivity or an active Wi-Fi connection.
Step 1: Confirm Your Tesla's Readiness and Connectivity
Before diving into activation, let's make sure your Tesla Model 3 is prepped and ready for SiriusXM. This is where we engage you directly – are you connected?
1.1 Check Your Software Version
First and foremost, your Tesla Model 3 needs to have the latest software update installed. SiriusXM was integrated into the Model 3/Y/Cybertruck with the 2024 Tesla Holiday Update.
How to check: On your Tesla's touchscreen, navigate to
Software(often found underControlsorService). Look for the latest version.Action: If you're not on the latest version, ensure your car is connected to Wi-Fi and allow it to download and install updates. A blue dot under the app tray often indicates a new app has been installed or is available.
1.2 Verify Premium Connectivity or Wi-Fi
As mentioned, the SiriusXM app in your Model 3 relies on an internet connection.
Premium Connectivity: If you have an active Premium Connectivity subscription, your Tesla will use its cellular connection for SiriusXM streaming. This is the most convenient option for consistent listening on the go.
How to check: On your Tesla's touchscreen, go to
Software>Upgrades>Premium Connectivity. You can also check and manage this in your Tesla app.
Active Wi-Fi Connection: If you don't have Premium Connectivity, you'll need to be connected to an active Wi-Fi network to use SiriusXM. This means you'll primarily be able to listen when parked within Wi-Fi range (e.g., at home, work).
Action: Connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network from your Tesla's touchscreen:
Controls>Wi-Fi icon.
Step 2: Activating Your SiriusXM Trial ✨
Great! Once your Tesla is updated and connected, activating your SiriusXM trial is usually a straightforward process directly from your car's touchscreen.
2.1 Locate the SiriusXM App
On your Tesla's touchscreen, swipe up from the bottom to reveal the app tray.
Look for the SiriusXM icon. It might have a blue dot underneath it, indicating it's a new or recently updated app.
Tap on the SiriusXM icon to launch it.
2.2 Start Your Free Trial
Once the SiriusXM app opens, you should see an option to "Agree & Listen Now" or similar, initiating your free 3-month trial (often available to new Tesla owners).
Tap this option and accept any terms and conditions that appear.
The trial should activate automatically. No credit card is usually required to start the trial period itself, which is a great benefit!
2.3 Existing SiriusXM Subscribers
If you already have a SiriusXM subscription from a different vehicle or a streaming-only plan, the process is slightly different:
Open the SiriusXM app in your Tesla.
Navigate to the "Subscription" tab.
You might be prompted to scan a QR code with your phone. Do so, and it will take you to a SiriusXM web page.
On the webpage, you'll likely be asked to enter the email associated with your existing SiriusXM account and sign in. This should link your Tesla's SiriusXM to your existing online account. However, note that sometimes existing subscriptions cannot be directly transferred to Model 3/Y/Cybertruck and a new subscription for the Tesla might be necessary, or you may need to call SiriusXM customer service.
Step 3: Navigating and Enjoying SiriusXM in Your Tesla
Now that SiriusXM is active, let's explore its features within your Tesla's intuitive infotainment system.
3.1 Exploring Content
The SiriusXM app in your Tesla is designed for easy navigation:
"For You" Page: This personalized section provides recommendations based on your listening habits and what's trending. It's a fantastic way to discover new favorites.
Categories: You'll find sections for Music, Sports, Talk & Podcasts, Comedy, News, and more. This makes it easy to browse by genre or content type.
Live Sports: Get access to live play-by-play coverage of major sports, including NFL, MLB®, NBA, NHL®, and NCAA games, along with expert analysis. This is a huge perk for sports fans!
"Favorites" (Library): You can curate your own library of preferred channels, on-demand content, podcasts, artists, and even sports teams for quick access.
3.2 Using Voice Search
Tesla's integrated voice command feature can be used to control SiriusXM.
Tap the microphone icon on your steering wheel (if equipped) or on the touchscreen and simply speak your command, such as "Play [Channel Name]" or "Find [Artist Name]". This provides a convenient and hands-free experience.
3.3 Audio Quality and Settings
The streaming quality of SiriusXM in your Tesla will generally be quite good, leveraging the car's sound system.
You might find audio settings in your Tesla's sound controls that can further enhance your SiriusXM experience, such as equalizer adjustments or immersive sound levels.
Step 4: Managing Your Subscription After the Trial
Your free trial won't last forever, but continuing your SiriusXM experience is simple.
4.1 Monitoring Your Trial End Date
Within the SiriusXM app in your Tesla, navigate to the "Subscription" tab. You'll usually see the remaining days in your trial displayed there.
4.2 Subscribing to a Paid Plan
Before or after your trial ends, you can subscribe to a paid plan.
Open the SiriusXM app in your Tesla and go to the "Subscription" tab.
Scan the QR code that appears. This will direct you to a web browser on your phone or computer.
Follow the instructions on the SiriusXM website to choose your desired plan and complete the subscription process. SiriusXM often has special promotional offers for Tesla owners, so keep an eye out for those!
4.3 Understanding Subscription Tiers and Costs
SiriusXM offers various plans. For Tesla Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck, the "All Access" streaming plan is typically available.
Introductory offers for new subscribers can be as low as $5 per month for 12 months or $9.99 per month for 24 months.
After the promotional period, the regular price for the "All Access" plan is usually around $24.99 per month.
You can also explore "App Only" plans for around $9.99/month if you primarily listen on your phone, but to use it in your Tesla without Premium Connectivity, you'd need to connect your phone via Bluetooth for audio. The in-car streaming app is generally preferred for seamless integration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Activate the SiriusXM Trial in My Tesla?
To activate your SiriusXM trial, ensure your Tesla has the latest software update and Premium Connectivity (or active Wi-Fi). Open the SiriusXM app from the media sources on your Tesla's touchscreen and tap "Agree & Listen Now" to start your trial.
How to Troubleshoot SiriusXM Not Working in My Tesla?
First, check your Tesla's internet connection (Premium Connectivity or Wi-Fi). Then, try closing the SiriusXM app by switching audio sources and reopening it. If issues persist, try restarting your Tesla's touchscreen or performing a power cycle of the vehicle.
How to Transfer an Existing SiriusXM Subscription to My Tesla Model 3?
For Model 3, Y, and Cybertruck, existing subscriptions cannot always be directly transferred in-car. Open the SiriusXM app in your Tesla, go to the Subscription tab, and scan the QR code to link your existing email or set up a new account. You might need to contact SiriusXM customer service if you encounter issues transferring.
How to Get SiriusXM Without Premium Connectivity in Tesla Model 3?
If you don't have Premium Connectivity, you can only stream SiriusXM when your Tesla is connected to an active Wi-Fi network. Alternatively, you can use the SiriusXM app on your phone and stream it to your Tesla via Bluetooth, but this won't integrate with the car's native SiriusXM app.
How to Find My SiriusXM Radio ID in Tesla Model 3?
Your Tesla Model 3 (and other streaming-enabled Teslas) does not have a traditional "Radio ID" like satellite-equipped vehicles. Your subscription is tied to your SiriusXM account, which is linked to your Tesla via the in-car app.
How to Change My SiriusXM Plan for My Tesla Model 3?
To change your SiriusXM plan for a Tesla Model 3, it's generally recommended to call SiriusXM customer service directly, as online modifications for these specific Tesla subscriptions might be limited.
How to Cancel My SiriusXM Subscription in My Tesla?
You typically manage your SiriusXM subscription through your SiriusXM online account or by calling their customer service. Cancelling directly through the Tesla touchscreen app is usually not an option.
How to Get the Best Audio Quality for SiriusXM in My Tesla?
Ensure your Tesla has the latest software updates. Explore your Tesla's audio settings, including the equalizer and immersive sound options, to optimize the sound for SiriusXM. A strong internet connection (Premium Connectivity is ideal) also helps maintain high streaming quality.
How to Use Voice Commands for SiriusXM in Tesla Model 3?
Tap the microphone icon on your Tesla's steering wheel or touchscreen and clearly speak your command, such as "Play Channel [Number]" or "Go to [Artist/Show Name] on SiriusXM."
How to See What's Playing on Other SiriusXM Channels in My Tesla?
The SiriusXM app in your Tesla allows for easy Browse. You can explore different categories and channels within the app interface to see what's currently playing, similar to how you would on other streaming music services.
For more insights into what SiriusXM offers in your Tesla, check out this video:
