Software updates explained

Teslas get new features and fixes through over-the-air software updates, downloaded like a phone update.

Why your friend has the update and you don't

Tesla releases updates in waves. A small group of cars gets an update first, then more cars over days or weeks. Which wave you're in depends on your car's hardware, region, options and Tesla's rollout plans. Being last isn't a sign anything is wrong.

Getting updates as early as possible

• Connect to Wi-Fi at home. Updates download faster on Wi-Fi than over mobile data.
• Turn on "Advanced" updates in Controls > Software > Software Update Preference. This asks Tesla to give you updates as soon as they're available for your car, which may include earlier versions in a rollout.

Installing

When an update is ready, a yellow clock icon appears. You can install now or schedule it, often overnight. The car can't be driven during installation, which usually takes 20 to 40 minutes. Don't start an update just before you need the car.

Release notes

After installing, the release notes appear on the screen and in Controls > Software. They list new features and changes.