A Thorough Look at Tesla Voice Commands
Many Tesla drivers appreciate the simplicity of speaking to their car, whether they’re looking to adjust the climate, find a restaurant, or control media playback.
This guide provides an extensive review of each voice command, along with detailed explanations and relatable scenarios where such commands might come in handy. Every command is phrased exactly as you would say it in the vehicle.
Tesla Voice Commands – Climate Commands
Turn on/off climate control
Explanation: This prompts the vehicle’s air conditioning or heating system to power up or power down. It ensures the cabin stays cool on hot days or warm on chilly mornings without manually fiddling with the touchscreen.
Scenario: A driver heading out in a heatwave might say “Turn on climate control” before even shifting into drive. Later, if it becomes too cold, a quick “Turn off climate control” will shut everything down.
Open/Close climate control
Explanation: This opens or closes the on-screen interface for the climate system. It is mainly used when you wish to inspect or tweak more nuanced settings on the display, such as vent positioning.
Scenario: Someone returning from a shopping trip might say “Open climate control” upon getting into the car, quickly review seat heater statuses, then say “Close climate control” to clear the screen.
Set/Direct air to my face
Explanation: This sets the airflow to the middle vents. It’s beneficial when you want a breeze near head level without adjusting other settings.
Scenario: A parent who has just finished a workout could say “Set air to my face” to cool down faster, especially if feeling overheated.
My feet are cold
Explanation: This directs airflow to the lower vents, offering warmth to your feet.
Scenario: A driver returning from a winter walk might realise toes are numb and say “My feet are cold,” ensuring warm air targets the floor area.
Turn on/off recirculate
Explanation: This command toggles the air recirculation setting, which can trap existing cabin air to either maintain temperature more efficiently or block external odours.
Scenario: Passing through a smoggy city centre might prompt “Turn on recirculate,” preventing unpleasant smells from entering. After leaving the polluted area, “Turn off recirculate” brings in fresh air.
I need fresh air
Explanation: This specifically turns recirculation off, allowing outside air to flow in.
Scenario: If the interior feels a bit stale, a passenger might say “I need fresh air” to let in a breeze from outside.
Turn on/off biodefence mode
Explanation: Activates or deactivates Tesla’s high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration system in certain models, helping to keep pollutants out.
Scenario: Anyone living near busy roads or dealing with wildfire smoke can say “Turn on biodefence mode” to filter the cabin air as thoroughly as possible.
Set the fan speed to X
Explanation: This changes the blower level to a precise setting (e.g. 1, 5, or 10). It gives quick control over how powerful the airflow should be without fiddling around on screen.
Scenario: During a humid day, someone might say “Set the fan speed to 6” to clear condensation from the windscreen.
I am cold/hot
Explanation: This increases or decreases the temperature by one degree. It is a convenient approach if you’re not certain what the ideal temperature is and just want it a bit warmer or cooler.
Scenario: A driver might say “I am hot” after feeling a brief flush from the sun, instantly lowering temperature by a notch.
Set the temperature to X
Explanation: This sets the interior temperature to a specific degree (e.g. 20 degrees Celsius).
Scenario: If the forecast is a brisk morning at 5°C, a driver could decide “Set the temperature to 23” for a comfortable cabin environment.
Set the temperature to LOW/HIGH
Explanation: This pushes the temperature to the minimum or maximum available setting.
Scenario: Someone stepping in from freezing conditions may say “Set the temperature to HIGH” for rapid heating. Conversely, “Set the temperature to LOW” suits a scorching summer day.
Turn on/off defroster
Explanation: This toggles the front windscreen defroster, blowing air to the glass to clear frost or fog.
Scenario: In damp or chilly weather that fogs the windscreen, a quick “Turn on defroster” helps clear the view before setting off.
Turn on/off rear defroster
Explanation: This specifically addresses the rear window by activating or deactivating its defroster.
Scenario: Early morning frost on the rear window can be managed with “Turn on rear defroster” while you continue prepping for the drive.
Turn on/off defogger
Explanation: This toggles the overall defogging function, aiming to reduce moisture build-up on windows.
Scenario: A family road trip might encounter shifting temperatures causing condensation. “Turn on defogger” helps ensure clear visibility all around.
My butt is cold
Explanation: This sets the driver’s seat heater to its maximum level for quick relief from chilly seats.
Scenario: Climbing into the car on a frosty morning might have you exclaiming “My butt is cold,” bringing instant heat to your seat.
Set [X] seat heater to [Y] (1,2,3)
Explanation: This adjusts the heater level for a specific seat, such as the front passenger seat, to one of three intensities.
Scenario: A front passenger might say “Set passenger seat heater to 2” for moderate warmth while the driver prefers a different level.
Turn on/off all seat heaters
Explanation: This activates or deactivates seat heating for everyone in the vehicle in one go.
Scenario: On a cold group outing, “Turn on all seat heaters” warms all seats. Once everyone is comfortable, “Turn off all seat heaters” prevents overheating.
Turn on/off steering wheel heater
Explanation: This toggles the steering wheel’s heater on or off at its highest setting in certain models.
Scenario: On a frosty winter commute, you could say “Turn on steering wheel heater” to avoid gripping an icy wheel.
Set the steering wheel heater to X (1,2, Auto)
Explanation: This allows finer control of the wheel’s heat. Level 1 is mild, level 2 is stronger, and “Auto” adjusts as needed.
Scenario: Someone with sensitive hands might say “Set the steering wheel heater to 1” to keep it subtly warm without becoming too toasty.
Keep climate control
Explanation: This ensures the climate system remains active even after you exit the vehicle, helpful for short errands or waiting passengers.
Scenario: Dropping by a shop for a quick purchase might prompt “Keep climate control,” so the cabin stays cosy for whoever remains inside.
Turn on/off dog mode
Explanation: This feature maintains a comfortable temperature for pets while showing a message on the display, informing bystanders the pets are safe.
Scenario: A quick grocery run with a dog in the back seat might involve “Turn on dog mode” so passers-by see that the interior is climate-controlled.
Turn on/off camp mode
Explanation: This keeps the vehicle’s climate and systems running until the battery hits around 20 percent, often used by those sleeping in the car.
Scenario: A camper might say “Turn on camp mode” before settling in for the night on a weekend trip, confident the cabin will remain comfortable.
Navigation Commands
Navigate to Home/Work
Explanation: The car retrieves pre-set addresses for home or work. This is one of the most common daily routing commands.
Scenario: Leaving a late-night event, you might say “Navigate to Home” to let the Tesla plan the quickest route.
Navigate to [Business Name]
Explanation: The system searches for nearby businesses matching the name. This is useful for discovering local shops or services.
Scenario: During a road trip, “Navigate to Starbucks” could find the closest one for a coffee break.
I am hungry
Explanation: This command serves up local eateries around you, making it an effortless way to satisfy cravings.
Scenario: While on holiday in an unfamiliar area, saying “I am hungry” displays a list of local restaurants to choose from.
Navigate to [Address]
Explanation: The car calculates a route to a specified street address. Perfect for any direct, precise destination.
Scenario: A friend’s new place could be reached by saying “Navigate to 10 Downing Street, London,” saving you from manually typing it on screen.
Turn on/off/show/hide traffic view
Explanation: This toggles a visual overlay revealing real-time traffic conditions. It helps spot congestion ahead.
Scenario: At rush hour, a driver might say “Turn on traffic view” to decide whether to take a quicker, alternative route.
Turn on/off/show/hide satellite view
Explanation: This layers satellite imagery onto the map instead of the standard graphical layout.
Scenario: A scenic drive might prompt “Turn on satellite view” for a better geographical perspective of the surroundings.
Zoom in/out
Explanation: Used to get a closer or broader map overview.
Scenario: Approaching a tricky junction in a new city might benefit from “Zoom in,” letting you see the roads and lanes in greater detail.
Mute/Unmute Navigation Volume
Explanation: This controls the spoken instructions for your route, toggling them on or off.
Scenario: A driver might say “Mute navigation volume” if using a hands-free call and doesn’t wish to be interrupted by directions.
Use/Don’t Use HOV lanes
Explanation: This adjusts routing preferences based on whether you can or want to use high-occupancy vehicle lanes.
Scenario: Travelling with multiple passengers on a motorway might prompt “Use HOV lanes,” minimising travel time.
Avoid/Don’t Avoid Tolls
Explanation: This setting eliminates or includes roads with toll charges when calculating a route.
Scenario: A cost-conscious driver might say “Avoid tolls” for a more budget-friendly trip, even if it takes longer.
Avoid/Don’t Avoid Ferries
Explanation: This instructs the navigation system to steer clear of or allow ferry routes.
Scenario: Someone with a personal aversion to water travel might say “Avoid ferries,” ensuring routes stay fully on land.
Show supercharger map
Explanation: This finds Tesla Supercharger sites near your current location, enabling quicker planning for charge stops.
Scenario: On a long drive home, a driver might say “Show supercharger map” to see all charging options in range.
Show weather
Explanation: This provides current local weather conditions on screen.
Scenario: On a day with uncertain skies, “Show weather” confirms if a storm is imminent, helping you plan pit stops.
Wiper Control Commands
Turn On/Off wipers
Explanation: This starts or stops the windscreen wipers. Helpful when you want immediate control without auto-sensing.
Scenario: Drizzle that’s too light for auto mode might prompt “Turn on wipers,” so you maintain a clear view.
Set wipers to Auto
Explanation: This hands the wiper speed over to the vehicle’s sensors, which try to match the rain or moisture intensity.
Scenario: Heading into uncertain weather, a simple “Set wipers to Auto” lets the car respond as conditions change.
Set wiper speed to X
Explanation: This selects a specific wiper speed (1 through 4), helpful if you dislike the sensor’s judgement or want consistent wiping.
Scenario: Heavy rain might call for “Set wiper speed to 3,” ensuring the windscreen stays clear at all times.
Set wiper speed to MAX
Explanation: This shifts the wipers to speed 4, the highest level.
Scenario: A sudden downpour at motorway speeds might have you say “Set wiper speed to MAX” for maximum visibility.
Increase/decrease wiper speed
Explanation: This nudges the wiper setting one step higher or lower.
Scenario: In on-and-off showers, a driver can say “Increase wiper speed” or “Decrease wiper speed” instead of specifying exact levels.
Information View Commands
Open/Close/Show/Hide Energy
Explanation: This accesses the Energy app, revealing how power is being used or regenerated. Closing it keeps the screen less cluttered.
Scenario: While on a long drive, you might say “Open Energy” to keep tabs on consumption and better plan charging stops. Later, “Close Energy” returns your screen to normal.
Show/Hide tyre pressure
Explanation: This displays or removes live tyre pressure data in the lower corner of the screen.
Scenario: If you sense a slightly rough ride, “Show tyre pressure” can confirm whether a tyre is underinflated.
Show Trip
Explanation: This calls up current journey details, including distance travelled and energy usage since the journey started.
Scenario: On a holiday drive, curiosity about how efficient you’ve been might lead you to say “Show Trip.”
Open Trip Settings
Explanation: This reveals broader trip history, letting you see prior journeys and associated data.
Scenario: A driver comparing energy consumption from one route to another might say “Open Trip Settings” to review stored logs.
Open/Close Camera
Explanation: This launches or closes the camera feed, typically showing rear and side views.
Scenario: Reversing out of a tight space could benefit from “Open Camera.” After you’re done, “Close Camera” frees screen real estate.
Save dashcam
Explanation: This captures a dashcam clip for later review, preserving video from the car’s exterior cameras.
Scenario: Spotting a reckless driver on the road might prompt “Save dashcam” to keep footage of any potential incident.
Google X (Shiva Tesla)
Explanation: This orders the car’s system to conduct a Google search for whatever word or phrase you provide, like “Google cat videos.”
Scenario: A passenger could say “Google local EV charging tips” when searching for specialised forums during a trip.
Show release notes
Explanation: This brings up the most recent software update information, revealing newly added features or improvements.
Scenario: After an overnight update, saying “Show release notes” clarifies what’s changed.
Show owners manual
Explanation: This loads Tesla’s digital owner’s manual for reference, ideal when you need immediate official instructions.
Scenario: Confusion about a new or rarely used feature might lead to “Show owners manual” for quick clarity.
Report Bug
Explanation: This lets you submit a brief message describing an issue, which Tesla can review to improve the experience.
Scenario: Experiencing odd screen behaviour might lead you to say “Report Bug” and describe the glitch right away.
Entertainment, Media, and Phone Commands
Open/Close [App]
Explanation: This launches or closes apps such as Netflix or YouTube in Tesla’s infotainment system, available when in park.
Scenario: While charging at a public station, you could say “Open Netflix” to watch something and pass the time.
Set audio source to Bluetooth
Explanation: This switches the music playback to your phone’s Bluetooth connection if you prefer your personal playlists.
Scenario: A driver might say “Set audio source to Bluetooth” to seamlessly switch from radio to the phone’s audio library.
Play [Artist, Song, Album]
Explanation: This requests streaming of a certain track, band, or album from linked music services, such as Spotify.
Scenario: Someone in the passenger seat might say “Play The Beatles” to enjoy classic hits on a long drive.
Tune to [Radio Station]
Explanation: This changes the channel to a broadcast station, like a local talk radio or sports channel.
Scenario: A sports fan driving during a match might say “Tune to BBC Radio 5 Live” to catch live commentary.
Play/Pause/Next/Previous/Mute/Unmute
Explanation: These control media playback without reaching for the screen. Mute or unmute the sound as needed.
Scenario: A phone call could come through, prompting “Mute” to temporarily silence music, then “Unmute” once the call ends.
Set the volume to X
Explanation: This adjusts overall audio volume to a specified level between 0 and 11 (or beyond, depending on updates).
Scenario: On a quiet rural road, the driver might say “Set the volume to 2” for gentle background music.
Open phone
Explanation: This pulls up the call menu, displaying recent calls and contacts.
Scenario: A driver looking to make a quick call could say “Open phone,” then decide who to dial.
Call X [Contact or Phone Number]
Explanation: This places a call to the specified name or number stored in your phone’s contact list or dialled manually.
Scenario: “Call John Smith” might be used when you need to check a friend’s arrival time.
Read my messages
Explanation: The car recites unread text messages, handy for staying informed without looking at your phone.
Scenario: Driving on the motorway, you might say “Read my messages” to hear any urgent updates from family.
Send a message to X
Explanation: This prompts the car to transcribe and send a text to the chosen contact.
Scenario: A short reply like “Send a message to Mum” might be used to say you’ll be home soon, all without taking your eyes off traffic.
Ho Ho Ho
Explanation: This enables Santa Mode, turning the car on-screen visuals into a festive scene and adding holiday cheer.
Scenario: Families taking a Christmas light tour might say “Ho Ho Ho” to amuse the kids with jolly graphics and sounds.
Turn off Santa Mode
Explanation: This exits the Santa Mode and reverts to normal on-screen visuals and sounds.
Scenario: After the novelty wears off, “Turn off Santa Mode” returns everything to standard operation.
Open Mars
Explanation: This changes the display map to a Mars-themed visual, purely for a bit of fun.
Scenario: A passenger might request “Open Mars” to entertain themselves, particularly during a lengthy supercharging session.
Vehicle Controls Commands
Open/Close Trunk
Explanation: This operates the rear boot lid. In some models, this can be fully automated.
Scenario: Coming out of a supermarket with full hands might have you say “Open trunk,” then “Close trunk” once everything’s loaded.
Open Frunk
Explanation: This activates the front storage compartment. Models that support power frunk can pop it with ease, others might partially unlatch.
Scenario: Holding smaller grocery bags and wanting to store them away from the main boot might prompt “Open frunk.”
Open/Close Chargeport/Butthole
Explanation: This opens or closes the charge port door. Some refer to it playfully as the “butthole.”
Scenario: Returning home to recharge might lead you to say “Open chargeport,” then “Close chargeport” once the plug is firmly in.
Lock/Unlock
Explanation: This secures or unlocks the doors, potentially the boot too, depending on your settings.
Scenario: Arriving home late, “Lock” ensures you walk away with the vehicle fully secured.
Open X Menu (Controls – Upgrades)
Explanation: This steps through successive pages in the Controls screen until reaching the Upgrades section.
Scenario: Looking for software upgrades or optional features might lead you to say “Open Controls, Upgrades,” saving multiple taps.
Open Controls Settings/Menu
Explanation: This directs you straight to the core vehicle settings.
Scenario: Someone wanting to tweak the car’s driving profile or safety settings might say “Open Controls Settings.”
Fold/Unfold Mirrors
Explanation: This toggles power folding mirrors, handy when you’re parking in narrow spaces.
Scenario: Narrow residential streets might prompt “Fold mirrors” to avoid accidental damage from passing cars.
Child Lock On/Off
Explanation: This command engages or disengages child safety locks, preventing rear doors from being opened from inside.
Scenario: Parents with little ones who might try opening doors too soon can say “Child Lock On.” When travelling with adults, “Child Lock Off” is more convenient.
Lock/Trap My Child In
Explanation: This is a playful alternative phrase that also activates child locks, ensuring kids remain safely inside.
Scenario: A parent with a cheeky sense of humour might say “Lock my child in” before setting off.
Window Lock On/Off
Explanation: This stops or allows rear windows to be opened from their door controls, often used with children in the back seat.
Scenario: Parents might say “Window Lock On” to prevent children from playing with the windows mid-trip.
Adjust [left/right] mirror
Explanation: This opens the on-screen mirror adjustment interface, letting you reposition each side mirror.
Scenario: Sharing the car with a partner who’s a different height might lead to “Adjust left mirror” before driving off.
Turn on/off dashcam
Explanation: This enables or disables the dashcam if you want to capture or pause recording.
Scenario: Someone suspicious of potential mishaps in a busy car park might say “Turn on dashcam” for added peace of mind.
Turn on/off car wash mode
Explanation: This sets the vehicle to remain neutral and close all windows while going through an automated wash, depending on the model’s options.
Scenario: Before entering a tunnel-like car wash, “Turn on car wash mode” avoids accidental wiper activation and keeps everything sealed.
Adjust steering wheel
Explanation: This loads the steering wheel adjustment menu, allowing up/down and in/out changes.
Scenario: A new driver taking over might say “Adjust steering wheel” to get the perfect position quickly.
Turn on/off sentry mode
Explanation: This command activates or deactivates the security feature, which uses cameras to record suspicious activity near the car.
Scenario: Someone parking on a quiet street at night may say “Turn on sentry mode” to keep an eye on potential threats.
Keep Summer/Tesla safe
Explanation: Another phrase that enables sentry mode, providing an added sense of security.
Scenario: Stopping briefly for takeaway might lead to “Keep Tesla safe,” watching over the vehicle during the short absence.
Open glovebox
Explanation: This unlatches the glovebox so you can retrieve items without reaching for the touchscreen.
Scenario: A moment of rummaging for your insurance documents might spark “Open glovebox.”
Open dynamics menu
Explanation: This reveals the driving dynamics panel, where you can tailor suspension and other performance settings if available.
Scenario: A driver wanting a softer ride might say “Open dynamics menu” and choose a comfort-oriented setup.
Set acceleration to Chill/Standard
Explanation: This modifies how rapidly the car accelerates. “Chill” is gentler, “Standard” is more responsive.
Scenario: An eco-conscious commute might use “Set acceleration to Chill” to conserve energy, while a spirited drive might call for “Standard.”
Set steering weight to Light/Standard/Heavy
Explanation: This changes steering effort required to turn the wheel, catering to personal preference.
Scenario: Some find “Light” easier for city driving, while “Heavy” can provide more feedback during dynamic driving.
Set the headlight to [off/parking/on/auto]
Explanation: This selects the desired headlight mode. “Off” disables them, “Parking” uses just the sidelights, “On” fully illuminates, and “Auto” relies on sensors.
Scenario: Entering a brightly lit city might lead you to say “Set the headlight to Auto” so the car decides when full headlights are necessary.
Turn on/off fog lights
Explanation: This toggles the front fog lamps, typically used in low-visibility conditions.
Scenario: Dense morning fog might have the driver say “Turn on fog lights” to improve close-range visibility.
Turn on/off high beam
Explanation: This phrase activates or deactivates the high beam headlights, sometimes referred to as advanced or adaptive lighting in Tesla’s system.
Scenario: An empty country lane at night might encourage “Turn on high beam” for extra illumination.
Turn on/off/auto dome lights
Explanation: This sets interior cabin lights to permanently on, off, or auto, where they come on when the doors open.
Scenario: Loading items in the dark might warrant “Turn on dome lights,” whereas “Auto” is usual for daily use.
Turn on/off steering wheel lights
Explanation: This controls any backlighting on the steering wheel itself, depending on the vehicle’s configuration.
Scenario: Travelling after dark, you might want the wheel buttons illuminated, so “Turn on steering wheel lights” proves useful.
Turn on/off dark mode
Explanation: This adjusts the display to a darker colour scheme, which can reduce glare at night.
Scenario: Driving along roads with little street lighting might call for “Turn on dark mode” to soothe your eyes.
Set the display to auto
Explanation: This reverts the touchscreen brightness or day/night setting to automatic.
Scenario: Someone who used “Turn on dark mode” earlier but now finds it too dim might say “Set the display to auto.”
Set the brightness to X%
Explanation: This sets the screen brightness to a specific number, helpful in varying light conditions.
Scenario: Glare on a sunny afternoon might prompt “Set the brightness to 90%” so the map and UI are easier to see.
Set the brightness to Auto
Explanation: This returns the display’s brightness to the factory default behaviour, adapting to ambient light.
Scenario: After manually tweaking brightness at night, a driver might prefer to let the car handle adjustments by saying “Set the brightness to Auto.”
Many Tesla owners find these voice commands enhance safety by reducing the need to tap the screen while driving. Clear articulation and understanding each command’s function make everyday tasks simpler, whether it’s adjusting cabin comfort, directing navigation, or just having fun with playful modes. Enjoy the convenience of controlling your Tesla through speech, and savour the ease of staying hands-on with the road ahead.
