What a Tesla infotainment upgrade is and who can get one
A Tesla infotainment upgrade replaces or updates the touchscreen system and software in your vehicle. Tesla offers these upgrades to owners whose cars have older hardware or software versions, though not all models are may be able to access. The upgrade typically includes a new central display unit, updated navigation, improved voice controls, and access to newer features that Tesla has added since your car was built.
Tesla handles infotainment upgrades through its service centers, not through your local dealer or a third party. You cannot order an upgrade online or through the Tesla app — you must schedule an appointment at a Tesla Service Center and bring your vehicle in for the work. The upgrade is performed by Tesla technicians and usually takes several hours.
may be able to access depends on your vehicle's year, model, and current hardware version. Older Model S and Model X vehicles are the most common candidates for upgrades, while newer vehicles often already have the latest infotainment system. Tesla's website does not publish a complete list of which vehicles may have access to, so contacting your nearest service center is the only way to know whether your specific car is may be able to access.
Key Takeaways
- Tesla infotainment upgrades are performed only at Tesla Service Centers and require scheduling an in-person appointment with your vehicle.
- The upgrade replaces the touchscreen hardware and updates the software, giving you newer navigation, voice controls, and features added after your car was manufactured.
- may be able to access varies by model year and current hardware version, and Tesla does not publish a public list — you must contact a service center to learn about your car qualifies.
- Costs range widely depending on your vehicle and the specific upgrade, and Tesla does not advertise prices online, so you will receive a quote during your service appointment.
Which Tesla models are may be able to access for infotainment upgrades
Model S and Model X vehicles from 2012 to 2020 are the primary candidates for infotainment upgrades. These older vehicles shipped with first-generation or second-generation touchscreen hardware that Tesla has since replaced with newer systems. Model 3 and Model Y vehicles are less frequently may be able to access because they already launched with more recent hardware.
Within each model line, may be able to access also depends on which specific hardware version your car has. Tesla has released multiple generations of its central display unit, and not every older vehicle can accept every newer one. A 2015 Model S might be may be able to access for an upgrade that a 2017 Model S is not, depending on what hardware each one currently has.
The only way to determine whether your vehicle qualifies is to contact a Tesla Service Center directly. You can find your nearest center on Tesla's website, call them with your vehicle identification number (VIN), and ask whether an infotainment upgrade is available for your car. Some service centers can tell you over the phone; others may ask you to bring the vehicle in for an inspection first.
What happens during an infotainment upgrade appointment
When you arrive at the service center, a technician will confirm that your vehicle is may be able to access and discuss what the upgrade includes. They will provide you with a quote for the total cost, including parts and labor. If you decide to proceed, the work typically takes four to eight hours, depending on your vehicle model and the complexity of the upgrade.
During the upgrade, technicians remove the old touchscreen unit from your dashboard, disconnect the associated wiring and components, and install the new hardware in its place. They then run software updates and calibration tests to may support the new system communicates correctly with your vehicle's other computers. Once the work is complete, they will walk you through the new features and how to use them.
You will need to leave your vehicle at the service center for the duration of the work. Some centers offer loaner vehicles or can arrange transportation, but this varies by location. It is worth asking about these options when you schedule your appointment.
Costs and what factors affect the price
Tesla does not publish standard pricing for infotainment upgrades online. The cost depends on which vehicle you own, which hardware version it currently has, and which new system you are upgrading to. Costs typically range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars, but this is not a fixed figure across all vehicles or service centers.
The price includes both the new hardware unit itself and the labor to install it. Labor costs vary by service center location and local wage rates. Some service centers may also charge a diagnostic fee if they need to inspect your vehicle before providing a quote.
To get an accurate price for your vehicle, you must contact your local Tesla Service Center and provide your VIN. They will look up your car's current hardware and tell you what upgrade options are available and what each one costs. Some service centers allow you to request a quote over the phone; others require an in-person visit.
How to schedule an infotainment upgrade appointment
Start by finding your nearest Tesla Service Center on Tesla's official website. You can search by zip code or city, and the site will show you all service locations in your area along with their phone numbers and hours.
Call the service center and tell them you are interested in an infotainment upgrade. Have your vehicle identification number (VIN) ready — you can find it on your vehicle registration, insurance card, or by opening the Tesla app and going to your vehicle's settings. The service center will use your VIN to check whether your car is may be able to access and to look up what upgrade options are available.
If your vehicle qualifies, the service center will offer you appointment times. Infotainment upgrades typically require a full day, so plan accordingly. Some service centers book these appointments weeks in advance, especially in busy areas, so calling early gives you more scheduling options.
Confirm the total cost, what the upgrade includes, and what time you should arrive. Ask whether the service center offers loaner vehicles or transportation while your car is being worked on. Write down your appointment confirmation number and the name of the technician or service advisor you spoke with.
What to expect after your upgrade is complete
Once the upgrade is finished, your vehicle will have access to newer features that were not available on your old infotainment system. These may include updated navigation with real-time traffic, improved voice recognition, newer entertainment apps, or enhanced climate control displays. The exact features depend on which generation of hardware you upgraded to and your vehicle's software version.
Your vehicle will continue to receive over-the-air software updates from Tesla after the upgrade, just as it did before. These updates may add new features or improve existing ones without requiring another service appointment. You do not need to do anything to receive these updates — they install automatically when your vehicle is parked and connected to WiFi.
If you experience any issues with the new infotainment system after your appointment, contact the service center that performed the upgrade. Most service centers will address problems that arise when ready after installation at no additional charge, as long as the issue is related to the upgrade work itself.
Alternatives if your vehicle is not may be able to access for an upgrade
If Tesla tells you that your vehicle does not may have access to for an infotainment upgrade, you still have options. Some third-party companies manufacture aftermarket touchscreen units that can replace Tesla's original hardware, though these are not made or endorsed by Tesla. These aftermarket systems vary widely in quality, features, and price, and installation may void your vehicle's warranty.
Another option is to wait and see whether Tesla releases a new upgrade path for your vehicle in the future. As Tesla's hardware and software continue to evolve, older vehicles that are not currently may be able to access may become may be able to access later. Checking back with your service center every year or two is a way to stay informed about new options.
You can also straightforward continue using your vehicle's existing infotainment system. Older Tesla systems are still functional and receive software updates, even if they do not have the newest features. Many owners choose this route and are satisfied with their vehicle's performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an infotainment upgrade improve my car's performance or range?
No. An infotainment upgrade only replaces the touchscreen and its software. It does not change your vehicle's battery, motor, charging speed, or driving range. The upgrade makes the display and controls easier to use and adds newer features, but it does not affect how your car drives or how far it can travel on a charge.
Can I upgrade my infotainment system myself or through a third-party shop?
Tesla does not support third-party installation of infotainment upgrades. If you use a non-Tesla shop, you may void your vehicle's warranty. Tesla Service Centers are the only place where Tesla performs these upgrades officially. Some aftermarket shops offer their own infotainment systems, but these are not Tesla products and come with their own risks and limitations.
How long does the upgrade take, and can I wait at the service center?
Most infotainment upgrades take four to eight hours. Whether you can wait at the service center depends on that location's facilities and policies. Many service centers have waiting areas, but some are small and may not have comfortable seating. Ask about this when you schedule your appointment, and ask whether the center offers loaner vehicles or can arrange transportation.
Will I lose my saved settings, music, or contacts after the upgrade?
Your vehicle's user profile, saved addresses, and paired Bluetooth devices are stored in your Tesla account, not on the infotainment hardware itself. After the upgrade, you can log back into your account and your settings will return. However, it is a good idea to back up any important data before your appointment, just in case.
What if I change my mind after scheduling but before my appointment?
Contact the service center as soon as possible to cancel. Most service centers will not charge you a cancellation fee if you cancel before your appointment date. However, if you cancel very close to your scheduled time, some locations may charge a small fee. It is best to call and ask about their specific cancellation policy.