If you own a Tesla Model 3, you may have experienced some issues with connecting to Wi-Fi networks. Wi-Fi is essential for downloading software updates, streaming music and podcasts, and accessing the internet browser on your touchscreen.
But what if your Tesla Model 3 won’t connect to Wi-Fi? There are serval factors that can affect Wi-Fi connection issues such as incompatible Wi-Fi networks, weak signal strength, outdated software, and hardware issues.
What Are the Reasons for Tesla Model 3 Not Connecting to Wi-Fi and How to Fix It?
There are multiple factors that can impact the Wi-Fi connectivity of your Tesla Model 3 causing your Tesla unable to connect to Wi-Fi.
Before trying any other fixes try rebooting your Tesla Model 3 by putting your Tesla in the park, then pressing and holding the brake pedal and both the scroll wheels until the screen goes black. The touchscreen and instrument cluster should restart after less than half a minute.
You can also try to reset the Wi-Fi settings on your car by forgetting the network and reconnecting to it. To do this:
- Go to Controls on your touchscreen.
- Then go to Wi-Fi and tap on the Wi-Fi network that you want to forget.
- Then, tap on the Forget Network button and confirm your choice.
- After that, scan for available networks and select the network that you want to reconnect to.
- Enter the password if required and confirm your connection.
If none of the previously mentioned solutions work, then you can try other solutions. Here are the possible reasons and solutions for Tesla Model 3 not connecting to Wi-Fi:
Incompatible Wi-Fi Network
Tesla Model 3 supports Wi-Fi networks that use 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bandwidths, but not all channels within these bandwidths are supported in every region. For example, in the US, channels 36-48, 52-64, 100-140, and 149-165 are supported for 5 GHz networks (if available).
Also, the Tesla Model 3 does not currently support connections to captive Wi-Fi networks.
If you try to connect to a Wi-Fi network that uses an unsupported channel or captive Wi-Fi networks, your car may not be able to detect or connect to it.
The Fix:
If you are trying to connect to a new or unfamiliar Wi-Fi network, make sure that it is compatible with your Tesla Model 3’s specifications. Check the bandwidth and channel of the network and compare it with the supported ones for your region.
You can also check if the network requires a password or any other authentication method that you need to enter before connecting. If the network is incompatible or inaccessible, you may need to find another network that works with your car.
Weak Signal Strength
Another possible cause of your Tesla Model 3 Wi-Fi connection issues is weak or unstable signal strength.
Tesla Model 3 can’t connect to Wi-Fi might be due to the car being too far away from the Wi-Fi router or access point, or if there are physical obstacles or interferences that block or weaken the signal.
For example, walls, metal objects, other wireless devices, or weather conditions can affect the quality of the Wi-Fi signal.
If the signal is too weak, your car may not be able to connect to the Wi-Fi network or may experience slow or interrupted connections or trouble connecting to Wi-Fi.
The Fix:
If the signal strength of the Wi-Fi network is weak or unstable, you can try to improve it by moving your car closer to the router or access point, or by removing any obstacles or interferences that may block or weaken the signal.
You can also use a Wi-Fi extender or repeater device that can boost the signal range and quality of the network. Alternatively, you can switch to another network that has a stronger signal if available.
Outdated Software
Your Tesla Model 3’s software may also affect its ability to connect to Wi-Fi. If your software is outdated or corrupted, it may prevent your car from detecting or connecting to Wi-Fi networks.
Software updates can also improve the performance and functionality of your car’s features, including Wi-Fi connectivity. Therefore, it is important to keep your software up to date by downloading and installing updates whenever they are available.
The Fix:
If your software is outdated or corrupted, you can try to update it by connecting your car to a Wi-Fi network that works and checking for updates on the touchscreen.
You can also use a mobile hotspot or tethering from your phone’s internet connection if you don’t have access to a reliable Wi-Fi network. To update your software,
- Go to Controls on your touchscreen.
- Then go to Software and tap on the Check for Updates button.
- If there is an update available, you can download and install it by following the instructions on the screen.
Hardware Issue
The last possible reason why your Model 3 won’t connect to Wi-Fi is that there is a problem with your car’s hardware, such as the antenna or the SIM card. This can prevent your car from detecting or communicating with Wi-Fi networks.
For example, if your antenna is not working properly, your car may not be able to connect to Wi-Fi even if it is within range of a network.
Alternatively, if there is an issue with the SIM system your car may stay connected to cellular even if there is a stronger Wi-Fi signal available.
The Fix:
To fix this issue, you may need to contact Tesla support or visit a service center for further assistance. To contact Tesla support
- Tap on the Tesla T icon on the top of the touchscreen.
- Then go to Service.
- Then click on Schedule Service.
- Then select an option that matches your issue.
- You can also call Tesla Roadside Assistance at 877-798-3752.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
What should I check if my Tesla Model 3 won’t connect to Wi-Fi?
Make sure the Wi-Fi network is compatible with the Model 3 and check the signal strength.
Why does my Tesla Model 3 say “No MAC address available”?
This could be a glitch that a touchscreen restart can resolve.
Why does my Tesla Model 3’s Wi-Fi keep turning off and not auto-connecting?
This could be due to a bug in the system.
What should I do if my Tesla Model 3’s Wi-Fi is not auto-connecting?
You can try resetting the Wi-Fi connection on the car.
Why is my Tesla Model 3’s Wi-Fi connection slower after an MCU upgrade?
This could be due to a security issue or lazy network programming.
