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How Tesla software updates work

4 min read · Updated Oct 22, 2026 · By VoltCoach

Tesla sends software updates over the air. Tesla recommends installing them at the earliest opportunity.

Download

Most updates download over Wi-Fi, so keep Wi-Fi on and connected for the fastest, most reliable delivery. A green arrow at the top of the screen shows a download in progress, and a clock icon appears when the update is ready to install. Driving during a download can interrupt it if Wi-Fi is lost.

Install

• Touch the yellow clock icon at the top of the screen and choose Install Now or Set For This Time.
• Or go to Controls, Software. You can also start downloads and installs from the Tesla app.
• If a scheduled time arrives while you are driving, the update is cancelled and you will need to reschedule.
• With Automatically Install Updates on, an update installs at 2 a.m. only if the car is parked at Home with more than 10% energy.

Before you install

• Turn off Keep Climate On, Pet Mode and Camp Mode. Updates will not install while they are on.
• Park the car in Park. Some updates take about 30 minutes, and some take longer.
• If the car is plugged in, charging pauses during the install and then resumes.

During the install

You cannot drive or use the car, and some safety systems, doors and windows may be limited. Do not try to use the car while an update is installing.

Good to know

• Standard or Advanced under Controls, Software sets how quickly you get updates. Advanced gets more releases but is not early access.
• Updates cannot be rolled back to a previous version.
• Read the release notes under Controls, Software, Release Notes. They may include important safety information.

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