If you're looking to enhance the interior ambiance of your Tesla Model 3, you're in luck! Newer Model 3 versions (especially the "Highland" refresh) come with integrated ambient lighting. For older Model 3s, aftermarket kits are a popular and effective way to achieve this. This lengthy guide will cover both scenarios, ensuring you can illuminate your Tesla's cabin to your liking.
Let's dive in and transform your driving experience!
Turning On and Customizing Built-In Ambient Lighting (Newer Model 3)
For owners of newer Tesla Model 3s (like the Highland refresh), ambient lighting is a standard feature that can be controlled directly from your car's touchscreen.
Step 1: Discover Your Tesla's Inner Glow ✨
Engage with your vehicle! Settle into the driver's seat and power on your Tesla's magnificent center touchscreen. This is your command center for customizing many aspects of your vehicle, including its lighting.
Step 2: Navigate to the Lighting Controls
Locate the Car Icon: On the bottom left of your touchscreen, you'll see a car icon. Tap this icon to open up the main controls menu.
Access Lights: Within the controls menu, look for and select the "Lights" option. This section manages all the various lighting features of your Model 3.
Step 3: Unleash the Accent Lights
Find "Accent Lights": Once you're in the "Lights" menu, you'll find an option specifically labeled "Accent Lights." This is where the magic happens for your ambient lighting.
Enable and Customize:
You'll likely see an option to enable or disable the accent lights. Ensure it's turned "On."
Many newer models offer a color wheel or a selection of pre-set colors next to "Accent Lights." Tap on this color selector to choose your desired hue. You might have access to 16 million colors, allowing for truly personalized ambiance!
There may also be a brightness slider to adjust the intensity of the ambient lighting. Drag the slider to your preferred level.
Note: Some users have reported that the ambient light brightness in certain 2024 Model 3s is linked to the screen brightness. If you find your ambient lights dimming, try increasing your main screen's brightness as a workaround.
Step 4: Explore Additional Ambient Settings (If Applicable)
"Night Only" Setting: Some models might have a "Night Only" setting for accent lights. If enabled, the ambient lights will automatically illuminate when dim conditions are detected outside your vehicle or when convenience lights are on.
Footwell Lights: You might also find separate controls to turn the footwell lights on or off within the "Lights" menu.
Installing Aftermarket Ambient Lighting (Older Model 3 or Enhanced Lighting)
If you have an older Tesla Model 3 without built-in ambient lighting, or if you want to significantly enhance the existing lighting, aftermarket kits are an excellent solution. The installation process can vary slightly depending on the kit, but here's a general step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Choosing Your Illumination Arsenal
Research Kits: Before you begin, spend some time researching "Tesla Model 3 ambient lighting kits." Look for plug-and-play kits that don't require cutting or splicing your car's original wiring, as this can affect your warranty. Many reputable brands offer kits specifically designed for the Model 3, often including dashboard, door panel, and footwell lighting.
Consider Features: Do you want app control, music sync, or a specific number of colors? These features will influence your kit choice.
Gather Tools: Most kits will come with everything you need, but it's good to have basic trim removal tools (plastic wedges to avoid scratching your interior), a microfiber cloth, and potentially some zip ties for cable management.
Step 2: Preparing Your Tesla for its Glow-Up
Safety First! While many plug-and-play kits minimize risk, it's always a good practice to disconnect the 12V battery before starting any electrical work on your car. Consult your Tesla owner's manual for specific instructions on how to do this safely.
Clean Surfaces: Thoroughly clean the areas where you plan to install the LED strips (e.g., dashboard trim, door panels, footwells). Use an alcohol-based cleaner to remove any dust or grime, ensuring the adhesive on the LED strips will bond properly. Allow the surfaces to dry completely.
Step 3: Strategic Placement of Light Strips
Plan Your Zones: Decide where you want your ambient lighting to be most prominent. Popular areas include:
Along the dashboard trim for a sleek, modern look.
Within the door panels to highlight interior lines.
In the footwells for a welcoming glow.
Consider a diffuser strip if your kit doesn't include one; this will create a smoother, more OEM-like lighting effect.
Test Before Sticking: Before permanently adhering the LED strips, connect them to the power source (as per your kit's instructions) and test them. Check that all colors and functions (if applicable) work correctly. This step saves a lot of hassle later!
Install the Strips: Carefully peel off the adhesive backing from the LED strips. Gently but firmly press them along your chosen areas. Use your trim removal tools to tuck the wires neatly behind panels and trim pieces. Secure any loose cables with zip ties to prevent rattling and ensure a clean, professional appearance.
Step 4: Powering Your New Ambiance ⚡
USB/12V Port Connection (Recommended for DIY): Many plug-and-play kits are designed to draw power from your Tesla's existing USB ports or 12V outlets (often found in the glove compartment or center console). This is the easiest and safest method and generally does not void your warranty. Simply plug the main power cable from your kit into the appropriate port and neatly tuck away any excess wiring.
Hardwiring (Advanced/Professional): Some kits might offer hardwiring options to the fuse box. While this provides a more permanent and integrated look, it involves working with your car's electrical system and may require professional installation to avoid warranty issues or electrical problems. If you're not comfortable with this, stick to the USB/12V option.
Step 5: Test, Adjust, and Enjoy!
Final Testing: Once everything is installed and connected, turn on your Tesla and activate the ambient lighting. Check all the colors, brightness levels, and any special modes (like music sync).
App Control: If your kit comes with a mobile app, download and connect to it via Bluetooth. This app will typically allow you to fine-tune colors, brightness, and choose from various lighting scenes.
Adjust to Perfection: Play around with the settings until you achieve the perfect ambiance for your Model 3.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to change the color of Tesla Model 3 ambient lighting?
Newer Model 3s can change colors via the touchscreen: navigate to Controls > Lights > Accent Lights and use the color picker. Aftermarket kits usually offer color control through a dedicated mobile app.
How to adjust the brightness of ambient lighting in Tesla Model 3?
For built-in ambient lighting, look for a brightness slider within the Controls > Lights > Accent Lights menu on your touchscreen. For aftermarket kits, brightness is typically controlled via their associated mobile app or a physical remote.
How to turn off ambient lighting in Tesla Model 3?
On newer Model 3s, go to Controls > Lights > Accent Lights and toggle the feature off. For aftermarket kits, use the mobile app or remote control provided with the kit.
How to install ambient lighting in an older Tesla Model 3?
Installation of aftermarket ambient lighting in older Model 3s typically involves cleaning surfaces, sticking LED strips with adhesive, and connecting them to a USB or 12V power source, often located in the glove compartment.
How to troubleshoot ambient lighting issues in Tesla Model 3?
First, check your settings on the touchscreen (Controls > Lights > Accent Lights) to ensure they are enabled and correctly configured. If using an aftermarket kit, check the power connection, ensure the LED strips are properly seated, and refer to the kit's troubleshooting guide or app instructions.
How to get music-syncing ambient lighting in Tesla Model 3?
Most built-in Tesla ambient lighting doesn't offer music sync. To achieve this, you'll need an aftermarket ambient lighting kit that specifically advertises a "mic sync mode" or "music sync" feature, which uses a microphone to react to sound.
How to avoid voiding my Tesla Model 3 warranty with ambient lighting?
To minimize warranty risk, always choose plug-and-play ambient lighting kits that do not require cutting, splicing, or modifying your car's original wiring. Connecting via USB or 12V ports is generally safe.
How to find reliable aftermarket ambient lighting kits for Tesla Model 3?
Look for kits from reputable automotive accessory retailers or specialized Tesla accessory shops. Read reviews from other Tesla owners, and prioritize kits that offer non-destructive installation and good customer support.
How to clean the interior surfaces before installing ambient lighting?
Use an alcohol-based cleaner and a microfiber cloth to thoroughly wipe down the areas where the LED strips will be installed. This removes dust, oils, and grime, ensuring the adhesive on the strips bonds effectively.
How to ensure a clean look when installing aftermarket ambient lighting?
Utilize trim removal tools to carefully tuck wires behind interior panels and trim pieces. Use zip ties to bundle and secure any excess wiring to prevent rattling and maintain a tidy appearance.
Here's a video that shows how to change the color of accent lights in a Tesla Model 3:
