How to Change Your Tesla Lock Sound in 2 Minutes
Yes, you can replace Tesla's factory lock beep with any sound you want. It's a built-in feature called Boombox, and it takes about 2 minutes to set up. No app, no jailbreak, no subscription.
Here's exactly how to do it.
What You'll Need
That's it. The sound you want is already waiting in our Tesla lock sounds library — 1,670+ free WAV downloads, all pre-formatted for Tesla.
Customize your Tesla lock sound
Browse 1,670+ sounds — instant preview and free download.
Step 1: Pick Your Sound
Go to the Tesla lock sounds library and find a sound you like. Use the built-in player to preview any sound before downloading — every track has a waveform player so you can hear exactly what it sounds like.
Good starting categories:
When you find one you like, click Download. You'll get a WAV file already named LockChime.wav.
Step 2: Prepare Your USB Drive
Format your USB drive as FAT32 or exFAT if it isn't already (most are). Then create this exact folder structure:
USB Drive/
└── Boombox/
└── LockChime.wav
The folder must be named exactly Boombox (capital B). The file must be named exactly LockChime.wav. Tesla won't recognize it otherwise.
If you downloaded from this site, the file is already named correctly. Just create the Boombox folder and drag it in.
Step 3: Enable It on Your Tesla
Plug the USB into your Tesla's data port. Which port depends on your model:
| Model | Best Port | Notes |
|-------|-----------|-------|
| Model 3 (pre-Highland) | Center console front | Rear ports work but may disconnect |
| Model 3 Highland (2024+) | Glovebox USB-C | Center console ports are charge-only |
| Model Y | Center console front | Same as pre-Highland Model 3 |
| Model S / Model X (2021+) | Center console | |
| Cybertruck | Center console USB-C | |
Then on the touchscreen:
- Go to Controls → Safety → Sentry Mode
- Tap Customize Boombox
- Under Locking Sound, select Custom and choose your file
- Tap the checkmark to save
Now lock your car with the app or key fob. You should hear your new sound.
> Tip: If you don't hear it, try locking with the app first. The physical door handle sometimes triggers a different chime path depending on your firmware version. Highland Model 3 owners — make sure you used the glovebox port, not the center console.
Which Tesla Models Support Custom Lock Sounds?
All current Tesla models support the Boombox feature as of 2022:
| Model | Supported | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Model 3 (2018+) | ✅ | Requires firmware 2022.4+ |
| Model Y (2020+) | ✅ | Requires firmware 2022.4+ |
| Model S (2012+) | ✅ | Requires firmware 2022.4+ |
| Model X (2015+) | ✅ | Requires firmware 2022.4+ |
| Cybertruck (2024+) | ✅ | Supported from launch |
| Roadster (original) | ❌ | No Boombox feature |
If your firmware is older than 2022.4, update via Controls → Software before trying. Driving a pre-2021 Model S or X? The pre-2024 Tesla custom sounds guide covers what older hardware supports. If you're on 2024.20+ Boombox firmware, see our Boombox sounds page for preset-by-preset swap suggestions.
Troubleshooting
Sound isn't playing:
Boombox (not boombox, not BoomBox)LockChime.wav exactly (check for hidden .txt extension on Windows)Sound is too quiet:
File not showing up in Tesla settings:
Wrong sound is playing:
How to Change It Again Later
Changing to a different sound works the same way — just swap the LockChime.wav file in the Boombox folder on your USB drive, replug, and re-select. You can keep a folder of options on the USB and switch them out whenever you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
What file format does Tesla use for custom lock sounds?
WAV format, 44.1kHz sample rate, 16-bit PCM. The file must be named exactly LockChime.wav and placed inside a folder named Boombox on the root of a FAT32 or exFAT USB drive.
Where do I find the custom sound option in Tesla?
Controls → Safety & Security → Sentry Mode → Custom Sound. Sentry Mode must be enabled for the option to appear. If you don't see it, check that your firmware is 2022.4 or newer.
Does the USB drive have to stay plugged in permanently?
Yes. Tesla reads the file from USB on every lock. Most owners use a small USB drive in a rear port so it stays out of the way. Without the USB, the car reverts to the default chime.
Will this work on my older Tesla?
Model 3 and Y (all years), Model S and X (2012+, requires firmware 2022.4+), and all Cybertruck variants are supported. Original Roadster does not support Boombox. Pre-2021 Model S and X on older firmware may need a software update first.
How do I revert to the default Tesla lock sound?
Remove the USB drive or delete the Boombox folder from it, then select "Default" in the Sentry Mode sound settings. The factory chime returns instantly.
Download 1,670+ free Tesla lock sounds → — all pre-formatted as LockChime.wav, ready to copy to your USB.
Having trouble? See our Tesla custom lock sound not working — 7 fixes guide. For everything about the LockChime.wav file itself — format, naming, installation — see our LockChime.wav reference page. New to the Lock Chime setting? The LockChime.wav guide explains what it is and how to customize it. New to Boombox entirely? Our Tesla Boombox sounds guide covers setup, compatible models, and troubleshooting.
Want the deep-dive version with model-specific instructions, firmware details, and every troubleshooting fix? See the complete 2026 guide to changing your Tesla lock sound or the Tesla lock sound complete guide for the full blog reference. Driving a Model 3 or Model Y? The Model 3 & Model Y installation guide has port locations, Highland vs. pre-Highland differences, and Model 3/Y-specific fixes. Not sure which sound to pick? Our 15 best Tesla lock sounds for 2026 ranks the top picks with audio previews, or browse 50 lock sound ideas by personality to find your vibe.