Getting an update on your Tesla without a consistent Wi-Fi connection can be a bit tricky, as Tesla primarily relies on Wi-Fi for downloading software updates. While the car can receive some minor data over cellular (if you have Premium Connectivity), major software updates typically require a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection. However, there are a few workarounds you can use if home Wi-Fi isn't an option.
Step 1: Understanding Tesla's Update Philosophy
First things first, let's understand how Tesla handles updates. Tesla pushes Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates to its vehicles. These updates introduce new features, improve existing ones, and fix bugs, constantly enhancing your car. Think of it like updating your smartphone – new versions come out, and your car gets better over time!
The key takeaway here is that the download phase often requires Wi-Fi, while the installation phase happens when the car is parked and undisturbed.
Why Wi-Fi is Preferred
Tesla recommends keeping your vehicle connected to Wi-Fi whenever possible for the fastest and most reliable delivery of software updates. This is because:
File Size: Software updates can be quite large, and downloading them over cellular data can be slow and potentially incur significant data charges if you don't have an unlimited plan.
Stability: Wi-Fi offers a more stable connection, reducing the chances of download interruptions.
Data Consumption: Cellular data plans might have caps, and large software downloads could quickly consume your allowance.
Step 2: Utilizing Your Phone's Hotspot (The Most Common Workaround)
This is often the most practical method if you don't have home Wi-Fi. Your smartphone can act as a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing your Tesla to connect to the internet via your phone's cellular data.
Sub-step 2.1: Prepare Your Phone
Check your data plan: Before you start, ensure your phone's cellular data plan can handle a large download. If you have a limited data plan, you might want to reconsider this option or monitor your data usage closely.
Enable Personal Hotspot:
iPhone: Go to
Settings>Personal Hotspotand toggle it ON. Make sure you note the Wi-Fi password.Android: The steps can vary slightly by phone model, but generally, you'll find it under
Settings>Network & internet>Hotspot & tethering>Wi-Fi hotspot. Toggle it ON and find the network name (SSID) and password.
Sub-step 2.2: Connect Your Tesla to the Hotspot
In your Tesla, navigate to Wi-Fi settings: On your Tesla's touchscreen, tap the car icon (Controls) at the bottom left.
Go to the "Wi-Fi" tab: You'll see a list of available Wi-Fi networks.
Select your phone's hotspot: Find the name of your phone's hotspot in the list and tap on it.
Enter the password: Input the Wi-Fi password you noted from your phone.
Connect: Once connected, your Tesla should show a Wi-Fi symbol, and the software update download should begin if one is available.
Keep your phone in or near the car during the download to maintain a strong signal. Driving during the download might interrupt the process if the connection drops.
Step 3: Visiting a Tesla Service Center or Supercharger
If hot-spotting isn't feasible or you're experiencing persistent issues, a Tesla Service Center is a reliable option. Many Supercharger locations also offer Wi-Fi access.
Sub-step 3.1: Tesla Service Center
Drive to your nearest Tesla Service Center: When you arrive, your car should automatically connect to the Tesla Wi-Fi network. These networks are specifically designed for vehicle updates.
Check for updates: Once connected, you can manually check for software updates on your touchscreen by going to
Controls>Software. If an update is available, it should start downloading.
Sub-step 3.2: Supercharger Location (with Wi-Fi)
While not all Superchargers offer Wi-Fi, some do.
Locate Superchargers with Wi-Fi: You might need to check the Tesla app or the in-car navigation for Supercharger details to see if Wi-Fi is explicitly mentioned.
Connect to the network: Similar to connecting to any other Wi-Fi network, navigate to
Controls>Wi-Fiand connect to the available Supercharger Wi-Fi.Initiate download: Once connected, check for and initiate the software update.
Step 4: Scheduling the Installation ️
Once the software update has downloaded (you'll see a green download icon), you can schedule the installation.
Notification on your touchscreen: A notification will appear on your Tesla's touchscreen, indicating that a software update is ready for installation.
Choose installation time: You'll have the option to install it immediately or schedule it for a later time. It's crucial that your vehicle is parked and not in use during the installation process, as you cannot drive it while the update is being installed. Many owners choose to schedule it overnight.
Monitor progress: You can monitor the update progress through your Tesla's touchscreen or the Tesla mobile app.
Step 5: Checking Update Preferences and Release Notes ℹ️
Sub-step 5.1: Software Update Preferences
You can control how quickly you receive updates:
Navigate to Software settings: Go to
Controls>Software.Select your preference:
Standard: You'll receive updates after they've been widely rolled out and proven stable. This results in fewer, but more vetted, releases.
Advanced: You'll be an "early adopter" and receive updates sooner, which may include more releases or beta features.
Sub-step 5.2: Viewing Release Notes
After an update is installed, you can view the new features and changes:
Go to the Software tab: Tap
Softwareon your touchscreen.View Release Notes: Tap
Release Notesto see a detailed overview of what's new in the latest software version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check if a Tesla software update is available?
You can check for new software updates by opening the 'Software' tab on your Tesla's touchscreen. If an update is available, you'll see a notification, and a yellow download icon may appear. You can also check via the Tesla mobile app.
How to download a Tesla update using phone hotspot?
First, enable Personal Hotspot on your smartphone. Then, in your Tesla, go to Controls > Wi-Fi, select your phone's hotspot, enter the password, and connect. The download should then commence.
How to find my Tesla's current software version?
On your Tesla's touchscreen, tap Controls > Software. Your current software version will be displayed there.
How to know if my Tesla update is downloading or installing?
During the download phase, you'll typically see a green arrow or download icon on your touchscreen. If a software update is available but not connected to Wi-Fi, you might see a yellow download icon. During the installation phase, the car will display a message, and you won't be able to drive it.
How to cancel a Tesla software update?
You cannot cancel a software update once the installation phase begins. During the download phase, if you lose Wi-Fi connection, the download will pause and resume when the connection is re-established.
How to ensure a successful Tesla update?
Ensure your Tesla is connected to stable Wi-Fi during the download. For installation, ensure the car is parked and not in use, and that the battery has sufficient charge (Tesla recommends at least 20%, but more is always better).
How to resolve a stalled Tesla software update?
If an update stalls, try restarting your Tesla's touchscreen (hold down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the screen goes black). If the issue persists, ensure a strong Wi-Fi connection or contact Tesla Service.
How to find release notes for a specific Tesla update?
After an update is installed, you can access the release notes by tapping Controls > Software > Release Notes on your Tesla's touchscreen.
How to schedule a Tesla software update installation?
When a download is complete, a notification will appear on your touchscreen. Tap the yellow clock icon to display the scheduling window and choose a preferred time for installation.
How to update Tesla without Wi-Fi if phone hotspot isn't working?
If your phone hotspot isn't working, your best options are to drive to a Tesla Service Center where your car should automatically connect to their Wi-Fi, or find a Supercharger station with public Wi-Fi if available.
For more details on Tesla software updates, you can watch this video:
