You've just gotten into your Tesla, or perhaps you're considering buying one, and a question pops into your mind: "Does this electric marvel make a sound at low speeds to warn pedestrians?" This is where the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) comes into play. As electric vehicles are inherently quiet, regulations in many regions now mandate that they emit an audible sound when traveling at low speeds or in reverse to enhance pedestrian safety. Knowing whether your Tesla is equipped with PWS and how it functions is crucial for both your peace of mind and the safety of those around you.
Let's dive into a comprehensive guide to determine if your Tesla has PWS and how to experience it.
Step 1: The Initial Inquiry - "Do I Hear That?"
The very first step is to simply listen. Tesla's Pedestrian Warning System is designed to be audible at low speeds.
Subheading: The Low-Speed Hum
Find a quiet, safe area – perhaps a deserted parking lot or your driveway.
Ensure your Tesla is in Drive (D).
Slowly accelerate to a speed below approximately 25 mph (40 km/h).
Open your windows to better hear any external sounds.
Listen for a subtle, continuous hum or whirring sound coming from the front of your vehicle. This is the PWS in action.
If you hear nothing, proceed to the next checks.
Subheading: The Reverse "Spaceship" Sound
Now, shift your Tesla into Reverse (R).
Again, listen carefully. Teslas equipped with PWS often emit a distinct, more noticeable "spaceship" or sci-fi-like sound when reversing. This sound is generally more pronounced than the forward low-speed hum.
If you hear this unique sound when backing up, your Tesla definitely has PWS.
Step 2: Visual Confirmation – Where to Look
While listening is a great starting point, a visual inspection can provide definitive proof.
Subheading: The Front Bumper Speaker
The PWS sound is emitted from a speaker typically located in the front fascia or bumper of your Tesla.
Carefully inspect the lower front bumper area of your vehicle. Look for a small, often discreet, speaker grille. The exact location can vary slightly by model and year, but it's generally positioned on one side (often the passenger side) or sometimes centrally.
Newer Teslas might have a "superhorn" system that combines the PWS speaker with the regular horn, making it less obvious as a standalone unit.
Step 3: Software Verification – Check Your Tesla's Controls
Your Tesla's infotainment system can also provide clues about the presence and status of the PWS.
Subheading: Navigating the Touchscreen Settings
Go to your Tesla's touchscreen.
Tap the "Controls" icon (usually a car icon at the bottom left of the screen).
Navigate to "Safety" or "Safety & Security."
Look for an option related to "Pedestrian Warning" or "Pedestrian Warning System."
If this option is present, it indicates your car is equipped with PWS. Some models may even have a "Pause" option for the PWS, though it's generally recommended to keep it active for safety.
Note: In some regions, the PWS is mandated and cannot be manually turned off.
Subheading: The "Boombox" Feature
If your Tesla has PWS, it will likely also have the "Boombox" feature. This allows you to play custom sounds (and even your voice via "Megaphone") through the external PWS speaker when the car is in Park.
To check, go to "Toybox" on your touchscreen and look for the "Boombox" option.
Important Note: While Boombox uses the PWS speaker, the ability to play custom sounds while driving was restricted by regulations. So, if you have Boombox, your Tesla has the PWS hardware.
Step 4: Understanding the Timeline – Model Year Implications
Tesla began implementing PWS in response to regulations in various markets. This means the model year of your Tesla is a strong indicator.
Subheading: Regulatory Mandates and Production Dates
In the US and EU, regulations mandating PWS for quiet electric vehicles came into effect around September 2019.
Therefore, most Tesla Model 3s and Model Ys manufactured from late 2019 onwards will likely have PWS.
Model S and Model X vehicles also began including PWS around this time or shortly after.
If your Tesla was manufactured prior to late 2019, it is less likely to have PWS unless it was retrofitted.
Step 5: When in Doubt – Contact Tesla Service
If you've tried the above steps and are still unsure, the most reliable method is to contact Tesla directly.
Subheading: Utilizing Your VIN
Have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ready. You can find your VIN on your vehicle's registration, on the driver's side dashboard (visible through the windshield), or on the driver's side door jamb.
Contact Tesla Service or use the Tesla app to schedule a service inquiry. They can look up your specific vehicle's configuration and confirm whether it came equipped with PWS from the factory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tesla PWS
Here are 10 common questions about the Tesla Pedestrian Warning System:
How to know if my older Tesla can get PWS?
Some older Teslas manufactured before PWS became standard might be eligible for a retrofit. Contact Tesla Service to inquire about specific retrofit options for your VIN.
How to test if my Tesla PWS is working correctly?
Drive slowly (below 25 mph/40 km/h) in a quiet area with windows down, or shift into reverse and listen for the distinct sounds. If you don't hear anything, and you know your car should have PWS, schedule a service appointment.
How to disable the Pedestrian Warning System on my Tesla?
In most regions, due to safety regulations, the PWS cannot be permanently disabled. Some earlier models or specific regions might have a temporary "Pause" option in the Safety settings, but it typically reactivates on the next drive.
How to change the sound of my Tesla PWS?
If your Tesla has the "Boombox" feature (available on cars with PWS), you can customize the sounds played when the vehicle is in Park via the Toybox menu on your touchscreen.
How to identify the PWS speaker location on a Tesla?
The PWS speaker is typically located in the front bumper or fascia of the vehicle. Look for a small grille in the lower front area, often to one side.
How to know if a Tesla Model 3 has PWS?
Most Tesla Model 3s manufactured from late 2019 onwards (when regulations came into effect) will have PWS. You can confirm by listening for the sounds, checking for the speaker, or reviewing your car's software settings.
How to distinguish PWS from other Tesla noises?
The PWS is a continuous, low-speed hum or a distinct "spaceship" sound in reverse. It's different from the internal fan noises, climate control sounds, or the audible click of the turn signals.
How to troubleshoot a non-working Tesla PWS?
If you suspect your PWS isn't working, check your vehicle's software for any error messages. A persistent warning light on the dash related to the external speaker may indicate an issue. Schedule a service appointment if problems persist.
How to find PWS regulations in my country/region?
Search online for "electric vehicle pedestrian warning sound regulations [your country/region]" or consult your local transportation authority's website.
How to upgrade a Tesla to have PWS if it doesn't?
As mentioned, it's possible for some older vehicles to get a retrofit. The best course of action is to contact Tesla Service directly to inquire about available upgrade options for your specific vehicle.
You can learn more about enabling and using Tesla's Pedestrian Warning Sounds in this helpful video:
