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How to Add Custom Names to Crew Chief Iracing

Stuck on how to add custom names to Crew Chief in iRacing? This step-by-step guide for iRacing drivers shows how to set your name and fix pronunciations fast.


If you’re trying to solve “how to add custom names to crew chief iracing,” the quick fix is to set your “My name” in Crew Chief and use Text-to-Speech (TTS) or record your name if it’s missing. You’re in the right place—follow these simple steps and get back on track fast.

Quick Answer: how to add custom names to crew chief iracing

Set your name in Crew Chief under Properties (search “My name”). If your name isn’t in the sound pack, either use the built‑in “Record my name” option or enable TTS so the spotter can say it. You can also turn on opponent name callouts in Properties.

What’s Really Going On

Crew Chief uses a big “name pack” of pre-recorded first names for personal callouts like “Nice lap, Alex.” If your name isn’t in that pack, Crew Chief falls back to generic terms like “mate” or “driver” unless you enable TTS or record your name. For other drivers in iRacing, Crew Chief can say their names using TTS, or stay generic—this is controlled by a couple of toggles in the app’s settings.

Step-by-Step Fix

  1. Update the sound pack

    • Open Crew Chief. Click “Update” for sounds and driver names so you get the latest list.
  2. Select iRacing as your game

    • Pick “iRacing” in the Game list so Crew Chief loads the right hooks and options.
  3. Set “My name”

    • Click Properties (wrench icon). Use the search box and type “my name.”
    • Choose your name from the dropdown. If it’s not there, proceed to Step 4.
  4. Add your custom name

    • Option A: Record it. In Properties, look for “Record my name” (wording can vary by version). Record, play back, and save.
    • Option B: Use TTS. Enable the setting that allows TTS for personalisations/names. Pick a TTS voice you like.
  5. Enable opponent name callouts (optional)

    • In Properties, enable “Use driver names in messages” (or similar) to let Crew Chief say opponent names.
    • If pronunciations are off, prefer TTS for opponent names.
  6. Test quickly in iRacing

    • Start a Test Session. Press Start in Crew Chief.
    • Listen for your name in warmup messages and, if enabled, opponent name callouts.

Extra Tips / Checklist

  • Keep your “My name” simple. If you use a nickname, record that exact nickname.
  • If TTS sounds odd, try a different TTS voice or language pack in Windows settings.
  • Update the sound pack regularly—new names are added over time.
  • If Crew Chief still doesn’t say your name, recheck that iRacing is selected and that your mic permissions are okay (for recording).
  • Opponent names rely on iRacing’s driver list; TTS is the easiest way to get consistent pronunciations.

FAQs

  • Can I make Crew Chief say my nickname instead of my real name?
    Yes. Set your nickname as “My name,” then record it or use TTS.

  • Why does Crew Chief keep calling me “mate” or “driver”?
    Your name isn’t set, isn’t in the pack, or personalisations are off. Set “My name,” then record it or enable TTS.

  • Can I fix how Crew Chief pronounces other drivers’ names?
    The simplest method is to enable TTS for opponent names. Advanced overrides may exist but can vary by version.

  • Do I need to change anything in iRacing settings?
    No special iRacing setup is required—this is handled in Crew Chief. Just ensure Crew Chief is connected when you’re on track.

Short Wrap-Up

To add custom names in Crew Chief for iRacing, set “My name,” then record it or use TTS. Turn on opponent name callouts if you want them. Test in a quick session and you’re done. Try a different TTS voice if pronunciations aren’t quite right.