Tesla’s most of the functions run by the respective software. As with any other software, this EV’s software also gets regular and scheduled updates. The issue is that sometimes, while the software is updating, it becomes stuck.
So, why is the Tesla software update stuck? There are three prominent reasons for this issue. The reasons are software malfunction, poor WiFi signal, and more data needs. Also, sometimes, the software updating process takes a vital amount of time, which can make you think the update process has stopped.
Here, we detail all these issues in a detailed manner. Also, we provide some proven and effective solutions to the software update stuck issue. Let’s start.
Why Is Tesla Software Update Stuck? In Detail Discussion

Here are the details of all the causes of your Tesla’s software process being stuck.
Poor WiFi Connectivity
Tesla updates its software wirelessly. It means your EV’s software receives an update in the Over-the-air form. Through this OTA, your car receives new software, improvements, and features.
These updates are crucial for making sure your Tesla is safe and works well. To get these updates, Tesla has set up your car to connect to the internet using WiFi.
These updates not only fix problems but also make your Tesla work better and improve how you use the touchscreen and other features. Sometimes, you’ll see notifications telling you that there’s a new update and you cannot get any WiFi access.
Considering the importance of the update, you can use your mobile’s internet connection to get those updates through the hotspot facility. But, in most cases, these connections are not reliable as the connectivity can get off for a millisecond or a second. Following this, your software update gets interrupted, and finally, it gets stuck.
So, the best way is to go for updates with a stable WiFi connection. But, if your WiFi isn’t strong or stable as well, your Tesla will have trouble getting these updates. In short, it’s important to have a good WiFi connection to make sure your car’s software stays up-to-date and works smoothly.
Sometimes, minor glitches can impede the update process, but with patience and persistence, you can often resolve them swiftly. For insights into Tesla’s premium connectivity compared to using a hotspot, explore our comparison guide.
Software Malfunctions
Tesla software updates come in two varieties.
- The first type introduces new features. These software updates enhance your car’s safety and capabilities.
- The second type fine-tunes your car’s existing functions to make them work better. Think of it as giving your car’s brain a little upgrade. These updates are a regular part of keeping your Tesla running smoothly and addressing any issues.
Sometimes, when your car is getting updates, there are technical glitches in the program. Also, in some cases, the updates might not be finished because your car’s model isn’t ready for them, or there might be a problem with Tesla’s system.
More Data Needed
This issue is applicable if you are using your mobile as the connection device. Sometimes, Tesla software updates can get stuck because they require more data than what’s readily available.
This can happen when the update is trying to download a large amount of information, requiring more data. If your phone’s data is not enough, it will trigger a struggling context in terms of software updating.
As a result, the update will get stuck, leaving your car in a kind of software hang. In such a case, you must ensure that your mobile has sufficient data to complete the update of Tesla software.
Time Requirement
The software updating duration varies depending on the type of update and its file size. Sometimes, the update gets finished within a minute, and sometimes, it takes several hours.
So, if the software updating process is taking more time, it can generate a misconception that it is stuck.
Solutions If Tesla Software Updating Process Is Stuck
Here, we have detailed proven solutions to the Tesla software stuck issue. Take a look.
Connect the Vehicle With WiFi
In this case, you ensure that the respective WiFi connection is fast and reliable. Do a speed test of the internet using any free app. Also, make sure your car is near that WiFi source. The connection display must have at least 3 to 4 bars.
Also, if your WiFi subscription isn’t up to date, you will face a disturbed connection. Additionally, if your WiFi provider is having issues because many people are using it or they’re doing maintenance, it can cause problems with your car’s connection.
In short, to restrict software update stuck issues, the connection needs to be good enough.
Reboot the Tesla
Perform a soft reboot and reset the touchscreen on your Tesla to deal with the software malfunction case.
- Step 01: Hold down the two scroll wheels on both sides of your steering wheel for ten seconds. The screen will go blank.
- Step 02: The main screen in the center will restart, which takes about 30 seconds. You’ll see an airbag icon on the dashboard of your Tesla Model X or Y. You might hear a clicking sound from the indicator.
- Step 03: After this, check to see if the software update has started again.
Check out this YouTube video to learn more about rebooting:
Solution for More Data Needed
If the software updating process gets stuck due to a lack of data availability, you must take prompt action. Purchase a new data pack for you using the respective payment system.
After purchasing new data, check whether the Tesla system allows you to resume the updating option or not. If the system does not allow resume updating, start from the initial stage.
Contact the Tesla Service Center
If all the above solution approaches fail, contact the customer care of Tesla. Contact any of their representatives through the Tesla App and inform them of the issue. They will fix the issue remotely, or they will suggest you go to a Tesla center nearby. The professionals will resolve the issue.
People Also Ask
In this section, we include answers to some of the most common questions regarding people’s experience that their Tesla software is stuck.
You can check the progress of a software update on your Tesla. To check it, you have to go to the ‘Software’ section on your car’s touchscreen and check for the status of the update there.
Interruption in a software update process can potentially lead to issues like no function of a system. It’s generally recommended to let updates complete without interruption.
Final Words
We hope that now you have a clear idea about why your Tesla software update is stuck. If it is stuck, check the internet connection first. Second, check if your mobile has enough data if you are using a hotspot. Lastly, go for a soft reboot.
If all these fail, you must contact Tesla’s service center and follow their guidance. Finally, we highly recommend you not to do any unusual tricks to fix the issue. This vehicle is very sophisticated, and any wrong action to resume the software update can damage the function of the car.

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