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Home/Cars/Tesla/Model S/Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)/how to perform a software update on Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020)

how to perform a software update on Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020)

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: easy30 minutes to 1 hour
3 min read
466 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to perform a software update on Tesla Model S (2012-2020). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and safety warnings included.

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
30 minutes to 1 hour

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Ensure the vehicle is parked safely in a secure location during the update.
  • ⚠Do not drive the vehicle while the update is in progress.

Symptoms

  • •Vehicle not responding to touchscreen commands
  • •Outdated navigation maps
  • •Missing new features or enhancements
  • •Reduced vehicle performance due to old software
  • •Error messages related to software issues

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Check Current Software Version: Navigate to 'Software' on the touchscreen to see the current version.
  2. 2Connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure the vehicle is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
  3. 3Verify Update Availability: Check for available updates in the 'Software' menu.
  4. 4Assess Battery Level: Ensure the vehicle's battery is sufficiently charged (at least 20%).
  5. 5Check for Notification: Look for any notifications indicating an available update.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  1. Connect to Wi-Fi:

    • Tap on the Wi-Fi icon on the touchscreen.
    • Select and connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network.
  2. Charge the Vehicle:

    • Ensure the vehicle is plugged in or has sufficient battery charge.
    • Confirm that the battery level is above 20% to avoid interruptions during the update.

2. Start the Update

  1. Access Software Menu:

    • From the main screen, tap on 'Controls'.
    • Go to 'Software'.
  2. Check for Updates:

    • If an update is available, a notification will appear.
    • Tap on 'Install Now' to begin the update process.
  3. Initiate the Update:

    • Follow any on-screen prompts.
    • The vehicle may automatically reboot during the update process.

3. Wait for Completion

  1. Monitor Progress:

    • A progress bar will display the update status.
    • Do not turn off or use the vehicle during this process.
  2. Completion Notification:

    • Once the update is complete, a notification will appear on the touchscreen.
    • The vehicle will reboot automatically if necessary.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Reliable Wi-Fi connection

Parts Required

  • No parts are required for a software update.

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

30 minutes to 1 hour

Difficulty

easy

Severity

medium

Tools

1 items

Parts

1 items

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