Tesla releases software updates several times a year, and each one changes how your car drives, charges, displays information, or handles safety features
Tesla updates roll out over-the-air, meaning your car downloads and installs them automatically when connected to WiFi — you don't visit a service center. The updates vary widely: some add new features like different steering modes or cabin camera functions, others improve battery efficiency or Autopilot behavior, and some fix bugs or security issues. The exact changes depend on which model you own and which update version your car receives.
Updates typically arrive in waves, so not every Tesla gets the same version on the same day. Your car will notify you when an update is ready, and you can choose to install it when ready or schedule it for later. Most updates take 20 to 45 minutes to install, during which your car cannot be driven.
Key Takeaways
- Tesla updates install automatically over WiFi and take 20 to 45 minutes, during which your car is unavailable to drive.
- Updates add new features, improve performance, or fix issues — the specific changes depend on your model and the update version number.
- You can schedule updates for a convenient time rather than installing them when ready when the notification arrives.
- Your car's touchscreen will show the update version number and release notes explaining what changed in that version.
How to check your current software version
Open the Tesla app on your phone or use the touchscreen in your car. On the touchscreen, tap the Tesla "T" logo at the top left, then scroll down to "Software" — this shows your current version number and whether an update is pending. The version number looks like this: 2024.44.2, where the first four digits are the year and week number.
If an update is available, you'll see a notification on the main screen. You can also check the Tesla app: tap "Controls," then "Software," to see the same information. If your car is not connected to WiFi, it won't read updates, so make sure your home WiFi network is saved in your car's settings.
What typically changes in each update
Tesla updates often include new Autopilot behaviors, such as changes to how the car handles lane changes or responds to traffic. Some updates add features like new climate control options, changes to the infotainment display, or new games and entertainment options. Others improve charging speed, battery range estimates, or how the car manages energy in cold weather.
Safety and security fixes are common but less visible — your car might get better object detection or fixes for known issues. Performance updates can make acceleration smoother or adjust regenerative braking. You can read the specific changes for your update by tapping "Release Notes" on the software screen before installing.
When updates are available and how long they take
Tesla typically releases major updates every few weeks, though the exact timing is unpredictable. Updates roll out in phases, so your car might receive a new version days or weeks after Tesla announces it. Your car will only read updates when it's plugged in and connected to WiFi, so leaving your car in the garage without power will delay the process.
Installation takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on the update size. During this time, your car's touchscreen will show a progress bar, and you cannot drive the vehicle. Plan to install updates when you won't need to use your car — many owners schedule them overnight or during the day when the car is parked at home.
How to schedule an update for a specific time
When an update notification appears, you have two options: install now or schedule for later. If you tap "Schedule," your car will ask you to choose a time window — typically you can pick a time within the next few days. Your car will install the update during that window if it's plugged in and on WiFi.
If you don't schedule and dismiss the notification, your car will remind you periodically. Some owners find it helpful to schedule updates for late evening or early morning when they know the car will be parked and plugged in. If your car is not plugged in at the scheduled time, the update will wait until the next opportunity.
Troubleshooting if an update fails or gets stuck
If an update fails to install, your car will usually revert to the previous version and try again later. If an update appears stuck — the progress bar hasn't moved in over an hour — try restarting the car by pressing and holding both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the Tesla logo appears on the screen.
If the update still won't complete, make sure your WiFi connection is stable and your car has enough battery charge (at least 20 percent). Unplug and replug the charging cable to reset the connection. If the problem persists, you can contact Tesla through the app or visit a service center, though most stuck updates resolve themselves within a few hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to install every update?
Tesla does not force you to update when ready, but updates eventually become mandatory for safety and security reasons. You can delay by scheduling for later, but eventually your car will require the update to continue functioning normally. Most owners update within a few weeks of release.
Will an update change how my car drives?
Yes, updates often change steering feel, acceleration response, or Autopilot behavior. Some changes are subtle; others are noticeable. You can read the release notes before installing to see what changed. If you dislike a change, you cannot roll back to the previous version — you can only wait for the next update.
Can I use my car while it's updating?
No. During installation, your car is locked and cannot be driven. The touchscreen will show a progress bar. Plan updates for times when you won't need the vehicle, such as overnight or during work hours when the car is parked at home.
What if I'm traveling and don't have WiFi?
Your car won't read updates without WiFi. If you're away from home for an extended period, updates will wait until you return and connect to WiFi. You can also use your phone's hotspot to provide WiFi, though this uses your phone's data plan.
Do updates drain my battery?
Updates use some battery power, but the amount is minimal — typically less than 5 percent. Your car should be plugged in during updates anyway, so battery drain is not a concern. If your car is not plugged in, it will pause the update until you plug it in.