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How Do I Use Spotter in Iracing

Learn how do i use spotter in iracing: enable it, set volume, pick a voice, and fix common audio issues. For iRacing drivers who want clear calls fast. Get rolling.

If you’re asking how do i use spotter in iracing, here’s the fast answer: turn it on in Options > Sound, set Spotter volume high, and test in a practice session. You’re in the right place—below is the plain-language setup and quick fixes so you hear clear “inside/clear” calls every lap.

Quick Answer: how do i use spotter in iracing

Enable the built-in spotter in Options > Sound, raise the Spotter volume so it’s louder than engine/tires, pick a voice you like, and test in a quiet practice. The spotter speaks automatically—no push-to-talk needed.

What’s Really Going On

The iRacing spotter is your virtual crew chief. It calls when a car overlaps your lane (“inside,” “outside,” “still there”) and when you’re clear. It also warns about three-wide, black flags, and some incidents. If you can’t hear it, it’s usually because the spotter is disabled, set too quiet, or drowned out by engine noise or the wrong audio device.

Step-by-Step Fix

  1. Open a solo Test or Practice
  • Less noise, easy to check levels without pressure.
  1. Go to Options > Sound
  • Press Esc in the sim, click the gear icon (Options), then Sound.
  1. Enable the Spotter
  • Make sure the spotter is turned on. Choose a voice/language if available.
  1. Set volumes so the spotter wins
  • Raise Spotter volume near the top. If needed, lower Engine and Tires a little so voice cuts through.
  1. Pick chattiness level
  • Set to Default or Low. Too chatty can distract; too quiet can miss helpful info.
  1. Choose the correct output device
  • Ensure iRacing is sending audio to your headset/speakers. If you switched devices recently, reselect it here.
  1. Drive and listen for calls
  • Roll side-by-side with an AI in practice. You should hear “still there… clear.” Adjust volumes until it’s unmistakable.

Extra Tips / Checklist

  • Use a headset if possible; it isolates the spotter from room noise.
  • If the spotter is muddy, lower Engine/Tires/Wind a tick instead of maxing everything.
  • Learn the wording:
    • “Still there/hold your line” = do not move over.
    • “Clear” = you can return to the racing line.
    • “Three-wide” = maintain lane discipline; avoid sudden moves.
  • Don’t rely only on audio. Glance at the Relative (F3) for gaps and overlap context.
  • Want more features (damage, gaps, tire temps)? Try Crew Chief. Start with the built-in spotter first, then add apps if needed.

FAQs

Q: Why can’t I hear the spotter at all?

  • Check Options > Sound: Spotter enabled, Spotter volume up, correct output device selected. Also confirm Windows isn’t sending the sim to a muted device.

Q: Do I need push-to-talk for the spotter?

  • No. The spotter talks automatically. Push-to-talk is only for voice chat with other drivers.

Q: Can I change the spotter voice or language?

  • Yes. In Options > Sound, pick a voice/language pack and adjust chattiness to taste.

Q: Is the built-in spotter enough or should I use Crew Chief?

  • The built-in spotter is solid for racecraft. Crew Chief adds richer info. If you want more detail and your PC can run it, it’s a good add-on.

Short Wrap-Up

Set the spotter on, make it the loudest voice in your mix, and verify calls in a quiet practice. Next session, focus on reacting to “still there” and “clear” instantly—that’s where the free lap time and safety come from.