Pedestrian Warning System

(If equipped) The Pedestrian Warning System causes Model S to emit sound when driving below approximately 24 km/h (15 mph) or while driving in reverse. Electric vehicles operate quietly and this sound helps to alert pedestrians of your oncoming vehicle. The sound, which activates whenever the setting is turned on (if equipped) and Model S is shifted out of Park, gets louder as speed increases.

In situations where you want to turn the sound off (such as in stop and go highway traffic), touch Controls > Safety > Pedestrian Warning > Pause (if equipped). Your setting is retained until you manually change it.

Icon of a gray car with an "X" next to a speaker.
The instrument panel displays this indicator when the Pedestrian Warning System has been paused and is therefore not active.

It is strongly recommended that you turn on the Pedestrian Warning System immediately after the circumstances that required you to turn if off have passed.

Warning IconA warning icon, calling your attention to a possibly risky situation
Warning
If sound cannot be heard, pedestrians may not be aware of your oncoming vehicle, which may increase the likelihood of a collision resulting in serious injury or death. Never rely on the Pedestrian Warning System to make sure that pedestrians are aware of your vehicle. Never pause the Pedestrian Warning System in areas where pedestrians may be present. If the Pedestrian Warning System is not operating, schedule a service appointment.