Want to turn your Tesla into a rolling public address system? It's a fun and unique feature that allows you to project your voice (or even your car's media) outside the vehicle. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using the megaphone function in your Tesla.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Be Heard? ️
Before we dive into the technicalities, let's ensure your Tesla is equipped for this exciting feature! The megaphone function is part of Tesla's "Boombox" mode, which utilizes the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) external speaker.
Vehicle Compatibility: This is crucial. The megaphone feature is generally available in Tesla vehicles manufactured after September 1, 2019. These newer models have the necessary external speaker installed. If your Tesla was made before this date, it likely won't have the external speaker, and thus, the megaphone feature won't be available.
Software Update: Ensure your Tesla's software is up to date. Tesla frequently releases over-the-air (OTA) updates that introduce new features or refine existing ones. A recent software version is usually required to access the latest functionalities, including the megaphone.
Step 2: Navigating to the Boombox
Now that we've confirmed compatibility, let's get you to the Boombox!
Sub-step 2.1: Accessing the App Launcher
Locate the App Launcher: On your Tesla's large touchscreen, look for the app launcher icon at the bottom of the screen. This is typically represented by three horizontal dots or a grid of dots, depending on your software version. Tap on it to open the applications menu.
Sub-step 2.2: Entering the Toybox
Find the Toybox: Within the apps menu, you'll see various applications. Locate and tap on the "Toybox" icon. This section is where Tesla keeps its more playful and entertaining features.
Step 3: Activating the Megaphone
You're almost there! Once inside the Toybox, finding the megaphone is a breeze.
Select Boombox: Inside the Toybox, you'll find the "Boombox" option. Tap on it. The Boombox feature allows you to play various sounds externally through your car's PWS speaker when the vehicle is in Park.
Choose Megaphone: Within the Boombox interface, you'll see several options. One of them will be "Megaphone." Tap on this option.
Start Speaking! Once selected, your Tesla's internal microphone will now be active, and your voice will be projected through the external speaker. You might notice a slight delay and a modulated, echo-like effect to your voice, adding to the megaphone experience.
Step 4: Important Considerations and Etiquette ⚖️
While the megaphone feature is undoubtedly entertaining, it's crucial to use it responsibly and be aware of potential limitations and legal aspects.
Sub-step 4.1: When Can You Use It?
Only When Parked: For safety reasons and in compliance with regulations, the megaphone feature (and most Boombox functionalities) only works when your Tesla is in Park. This is to prevent distractions and ensure pedestrian safety while the vehicle is in motion. Tesla issued a recall in some regions to disable Boombox mode while the vehicle is in drive, neutral, or reverse to prevent interference with federally mandated pedestrian warning sounds.
Live Sentry Mode (Limited Functionality): Some reports suggest you might be able to use a limited voice broadcast function through the Tesla app when Live Sentry Mode is active. However, the full megaphone effect is primarily for when the car is stationary.
Sub-step 4.2: Legal and Ethical Use
Local Laws and Noise Ordinances: Before using the megaphone in public, always check your local laws and noise ordinances. What might be acceptable in one area could be a violation in another. Excessive noise can be a nuisance and, in some places, illegal.
Respect Others: Be mindful of your surroundings and the people around you. While it's a fun feature, it's not meant for disturbing the peace or harassing individuals. Use it responsibly and courteously.
Purpose of PWS Speaker: Remember that the external speaker was originally mandated for Pedestrian Warning Systems to alert pedestrians to the presence of quiet electric vehicles at low speeds. Abusing the Boombox feature could lead to negative perceptions or even further restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to turn on the megaphone feature in my Tesla?
To turn on the megaphone feature, go to the App Launcher on your Tesla's touchscreen, select Toybox, then Boombox, and finally, tap on Megaphone.
How to use the Tesla megaphone to talk outside the car?
Once the megaphone feature is activated in the Boombox menu, simply speak into your Tesla's internal microphone, and your voice will be projected through the external speaker on the vehicle.
How to know if my Tesla has the megaphone feature?
The megaphone feature is available in Tesla vehicles manufactured after approximately September 1, 2019, as these models include the necessary external Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) speaker. If your car is older than this, it likely doesn't have it.
How to troubleshoot if the megaphone feature isn't working?
First, ensure your car is in Park. Next, check that your Tesla's software is up to date. If it still doesn't work, a soft reset of the infotainment system (holding down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel) might help.
How to adjust the volume of the Tesla megaphone?
The volume of the megaphone is generally controlled through your Tesla's main media volume. You might be able to adjust it using the steering wheel scroll wheel or the volume controls on the touchscreen.
How to use custom sounds with the Boombox mode in Tesla?
While the megaphone uses your voice, the Boombox also allows for custom sounds. You can add .wav and .mp3 audio files to a folder named "Boombox" on a formatted USB drive and plug it into your Tesla's USB port (often in the glove box for newer models).
How to play media through the external speaker using Boombox?
In the Boombox menu, besides the megaphone option, you'll also see an option to "Play current media." This will play whatever audio is currently playing inside your car (e.g., Spotify, radio) through the external speaker.
How to disable the megaphone or Boombox feature?
To disable the megaphone, simply go back to the Boombox menu and deselect the megaphone option, or navigate away from the Boombox app entirely.
How to ensure I'm using the megaphone legally?
Always consult your local laws and noise ordinances regarding external vehicle sounds. In many regions, using such features may be restricted or prohibited, especially while driving or in residential areas.
How to update my Tesla's software for new features?
Your Tesla typically updates automatically when connected to Wi-Fi. You can check for updates manually by going to Software on your touchscreen and looking for the "Software Update" section.
For a quick visual guide on activating the megaphone, check out this video:
