Firmware update stuck at 50%, Tesla wants $1,800 computer replacement

I feel like if a update got stuck they could just rebuild the operating system, not require a replace. At least that's how it works with computers. Unless it got stuck because the hardware was damaged

Embedded systems like infotainment uses firmware typically so essentially they failed a bios flash. Generally you have to take out the rom and flash it using a different external device in this case.

You seem to be stuck on the idea that the problems started because the update failed at 50% and since they started it, they should be responsible. The reality is the problems already existed, hence why you where experiencing all those problems before the update was even started. So the cpu and components where already inoperable or defective. Unfortunately it's out of warranty, ask if they can help lower the cost but I say your stuck with the repair bill.

Welcome to the club! My 2021 has this exact problem and requires a replacement for the same cost. Bullshit that these computers are dying so quick...

That's a good business idea for out of warranty cars

If you are able to start an update and failed, it should be on Tesla’s. If there really is a problem prior to the update, the computer should have detected those already and prevented an update to run.

Are they updating with the same Intel or do you get the Ryzen version?

I forgot to mention this started after it was in for service for a TPMS sensor, which was kind of a whole issue on its own. I explained front driver tire showed 0psi for awhile asked to have it changed, they changed back driver because their system said that one was faulty, front tire still showed 0psi, I went back, a week later, they then changed passenger front for same apparent reason and then at the same service appointment finally changed the correct front driver side sensor. The issues started after that.

You can always speak to the manager to argue this, it's honestly your only option it seems. If stand on the point that things broke after they pushed the update and hope that they budge.

This is a grey area relatively new to the car world that hasn’t been fully fleshed out yet. IMO, there probably needs to be some regulation on what is expected regarding technology longevity, especially when it can render a car completely useless.

Might me a opportunity in disguise...tell them to make you a deal on HW4 computer.

Updating a Tesla is something users can’t mess up. If it fails, there is something wrong with the update or the car. That is no user’s fault.

There is a fail safe chip on the car. If its stuck do a battery disconnect amd reboot. It will boot the working chip. Similar to a bios on some pcs. If your update fails again you likely need a new computer because the memory chips on your board are done. Do a 12v battery disconnect and hw disconnect wait 10 mins and then plug it all back. This is a forced reboot of all systems.

**Software Corruptions:** Recently, some owners have reported "failed" computers following a software update. In some cases, these were resolved by the Service Center "re-pushing" the firmware for a much smaller labor fee (around $150–$200) rather than a full hardware swap. This was tried already?

Exactly this. Its not like you can turn updates off or have the freedom to roll back. If they want to push stuff, they need to take responsibility when that ousj breakes something

The same type as the car came with. Currently no upgrad path physically without changing out a significant amount of hardware

Well Tesla has decided they make money from existing customers rather than new ones now

So when engines go out after warranty it’s on the manufacturer? Things break after warranty. Thats the way it is and has been. Nothing new just bc it’s tech and not mechanical.

You install softwate update on your engine? Damn

I had that happen with a brand new Model 3 that only had around 1,000 miles. They did in fact have to replace the computer.

I honestly feel like this is on Tesla though. If the car is so dependent (especially on safety features) and you botch a FW update, they need to replace it. Not the users fault the software isn’t up to par

I think it would depend on the language of the Eula that’s agreed upon when installing the update.

Yeah, I’m just saying “as the right thing to do”. I work in the SW industry and if our SW did something like that to a customer, we’d make it right. Edit: SW is Software 🤦‍♂️

I have no idea how sex work could lead to a broken computer but as long as it’s consensual I don’t judge. Happy that y’all work with your end users so well.

LOL

Dear ChatGPT, please read the section of the OP that says “Tesla said they’d push an OTA update to try and fix it.” At least put some effort in if you’re going to give a reply. Tesla doesn’t charge to push an update.

Bruh software 🥲🤣

"There is something wrong with the update or the car" in this case there is something wrong with the car, and it's out of warranty. Simple

Obviously there nothing wrong with the car since it’s fine before the update. How is that hard to understand.

Really, I don’t know maybe people should define their acronyms before using them amongst mixed company.

Absolutely this.

Yes, it’s not the users’s fault. But outside of warranty, it’s the same as if any other component on any other vehicle broke.

The OP specifically said that there were a bunch of things wrong before. It’s actually the very first sentence of the original post

Yes, if the update breaks something. If the update fails to apply because of a existing issue, that’s a very different thing

It’s likely that the update getting stuck is a symptom of the same problem that was also causing all the other symptoms. Don’t think of it is replacing the computer because the update failed, think of it as the update failed because the computer has to be replaced.

Reading their financials, the entire service center thing is actually still a net loss.

I wonder what the ratio of cars under warrenty be not is these days.  A few years ago it made sence because practically all cars were under warrenty so most services items were no charge.

But prove that issue didn't exsist when it was under warrenty and why it wasn't addressed erlier. Or more importantly not detected beforehand so the owner could chose not to brick their cars.  Say new update turns on a thing that wasn't turned on before. If that thing was broken from factory, how was the owner meant to have it fixed within warrenty?  Essentially it means the issue was hidden from the owner. Hardly seems fair.  If they want to charge for it, then they need to fully open up the entire system. Give us fill back door access. If they dont, then they need to take responsibility.

If they were HW issues, Tesla wouldn't have push an update to fix, they would have replaced them immediately. They messed up with their update, and now they want to charge the owner. The problem before the update wouldn't prevent OP from driving, now after the update, it can't be driven.

Maybe people should know what FW (firmware) and SW (software) is in a forum on Tesla..

I agree they should but if you expect that then you’ll be very disappointed.

# Service center using Tesla Toolbox (direct deployment) Cost: **Depends** If you have to go to a service center and they connect a laptop running **Tesla Toolbox** to reinstall firmware or redeploy modules: Possible charges: * **$0** if: * car is under warranty * the issue is clearly a software bug or failed update * **$100–$300+ diagnostic/service fee** if: * car is **out of warranty** * the issue is caused by **hardware failure**, connectivity issues, or owner-caused problems.