Tesla Text Messaging: Set Up, Send, Receive Messages, Useful Tips

Tesla Text Messaging: A Comprehensive Guide to Set Up, Send, and Receive Messages

Tesla, known for its innovative features in electric vehicles, has introduced a text messaging system that allows drivers to stay connected while on the road. This feature, available across various Tesla models, including the Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X, enables users to receive and send text messages hands-free. Here’s a detailed guide on how to set up, send, and receive text messages in your Tesla, along with some useful tips.

Setting Up Text Messaging

To start using the text messaging feature in your Tesla, follow these steps:

1. Pair Your Phone via Bluetooth:

   • Begin by ensuring your phone is paired with your Tesla via Bluetooth. To do this, tap the Bluetooth icon at the top of the screen in your Tesla to access Bluetooth settings. If your phone is not already paired, add it by selecting "Add Phone" and following the pairing instructions.

2. Enable Message Syncing:

   • Once your phone is paired, select the name of your device in the Bluetooth settings. On the right side, you will see options for that device. Ensure that the "Sync Messages" option is turned on. You may also want to enable the "Chime on New Message" option to receive an audible alert for new messages.

3. Check Phone Settings:

• On your phone, go to Bluetooth settings and find the device labeled as your Tesla. Tap on the information icon (i for iPhone or gear icon for Android) and ensure that the car is set to share contacts and notification or text message data.

Receiving Text Messages

With the "Sync Messages" option enabled, your Tesla will display text messages received on your phone. Here’s how it works:

• Notification Alert:

  • When you receive a text message, your Tesla will display the sender's name on the screen. If you have the "Chime on New Message" option enabled, you will also hear an audible alert.

• Reading Messages:

  • You can have the car read the message to you by pressing the voice button on the steering wheel (for Model S and Model X) or pushing in the right scroll wheel (for Model 3 and Model Y).

• Message List:

• All received messages will be listed in the Messages tab under the Phone app in your Tesla. However, messages sent or received outside of the current drive will not appear here.

Sending Text Messages

Sending text messages through your Tesla is voice-command driven:

1. Initiate Voice Command:

   • For Model S and Model X, tap the voice button on the top right side of the steering wheel. For Model 3 and Model Y, push in the right scroll wheel to start a voice command.

2. Dictate the Message:

   • Use the voice command "Send text to [Name]," where [Name] is the contact you wish to send the message to. Ensure your contacts are synced with your Tesla for this to function.

3. Send the Message:

• After dictating the message, use the scroll wheel to confirm and send it.

Useful Tips and Troubleshooting

• Syncing Issues:

  • If you are not receiving text messages, ensure that your phone is paired and connected, and that the "Sync Messages" option is turned on. Check your phone's Bluetooth settings to ensure it is sharing the relevant data with the car.

• RCS and Group Messages:

  • Note that the system may struggle with RCS (Rich Communication Services) texts and does not currently support sending or replying to group messages on some devices, including iPhones.

• Rebooting and Re-pairing:

• If you encounter issues, try rebooting your car or unpairing and re-pairing your phone. Delete the device from both your car's and phone's Bluetooth settings before re-pairing.

By following these steps and tips, you can effectively set up and use the text messaging feature in your Tesla, enhancing your driving experience with convenient and safe communication on the go.