Tesla "Recall" Complete Q&A: Differentiation Must Be Made Between a Recall and Software Update

Today Tesla "recalled" 362,758 vehicles, saying Full Self-Driving Beta software may cause crashes. This is a serious issue, but CEO Elon Musk seems frustrated by the media calling it a recall. He says "The word “recall” for an over-the-air software update is anachronistic and just flat wrong!"

Definitely. The word “recall” for an over-the-air software update is anachronistic and just flat wrong!— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 16, 2023

So what is a Tesla recall?

Tesla recalls are instances where the company identifies a safety issue or defect in one of their vehicles and is required to take action to address the issue. This may include notifying affected vehicle owners and implementing a fix, such as a software update, hardware replacement, or repair.

How do over-the-air updates work in Tesla vehicles?
Over-the-air updates are wireless software updates that are sent to Tesla vehicles through their built-in cellular connection. These updates can be used to improve the functionality of the vehicle, fix bugs, and address safety issues. Tesla has been known to use over-the-air updates to address recalls, allowing them to quickly and efficiently fix issues without requiring owners to bring their vehicles in for service.

Why does Tesla use over-the-air updates to fix vehicle issues?
Tesla uses over-the-air updates to fix vehicle issues because it is a fast, efficient, and convenient way to address safety concerns and improve the performance of their vehicles. This approach allows Tesla to update their vehicles in real-time, without requiring owners to bring their vehicles into a service center.

Can over-the-air updates fix all issues in a Tesla vehicle?
Over-the-air updates can fix many issues in a Tesla vehicle, including safety issues and bugs in the software. However, not all issues can be fixed through an over-the-air update. Some issues may require a hardware fix or a visit to a Tesla service center.

How long does it typically take for Tesla to fix a recall using over-the-air updates?
The amount of time it takes for Tesla to fix a recall using over-the-air updates can vary depending on the severity of the issue and the complexity of the fix. In some cases, Tesla may be able to deploy a fix within days of identifying the issue. However, more complex fixes may take longer to develop and test before they can be deployed.

Are over-the-air updates more efficient than traditional vehicle recalls?
Over-the-air updates can be more efficient than traditional vehicle recalls because they can be deployed quickly and remotely, without requiring owners to bring their vehicles into a service center. This can save time and money for both Tesla and vehicle owners.

How do Tesla owners receive notifications about over-the-air updates?
Tesla owners receive notifications about over-the-air updates through the Tesla mobile app, which will alert them when a new update is available. Owners can then choose to download and install the update directly through the app.

Can Tesla owners choose to opt out of over-the-air updates?
Yes, Tesla owners can choose to opt out of over-the-air updates. However, it is important to note that opting out of updates may prevent them from receiving important safety fixes or updates to their vehicle's software. Additionally, opting out of updates may void the vehicle's warranty or reduce its resale value. Tesla recommends that owners keep their vehicles up-to-date with the latest software updates to ensure the best performance and safety of their vehicle. If an owner chooses to opt out of updates, they assume responsibility for any issues that may arise as a result.

What happens if a Tesla owner fails to install an over-the-air update for a recall?
If a Tesla owner fails to install an over-the-air update for a recall, they may be putting themselves and others at risk if the issue addressed by the update is related to safety. Additionally, failing to install an update may void the vehicle's warranty or reduce its resale value.

Have there been any instances where over-the-air updates were unsuccessful in fixing a recall issue in a Tesla vehicle?
There have been some instances where over-the-air updates were unsuccessful in fixing a recall issue in a Tesla vehicle. For example, in 2019, Tesla issued an over-the-air update to address a potential fire risk related to the battery pack in some Model S and Model X vehicles, but some owners reported that the update did not fully address the issue. In such cases, Tesla may need to implement additional fixes or have owners bring their vehicles into a service center for repair.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebok, Linkedin and Youtube.