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    Home»Troubleshooting»Tesla USB Drive Not Working: Common Reasons and Quick Fixes
    Troubleshooting

    Tesla USB Drive Not Working: Common Reasons and Quick Fixes

    Daniyal EvansBy Daniyal Evans06 Mins Read
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    The Tesla USB drive may not be functioning for a number of reasons, including an erroneous file system, misconduct, incompatibility, faulty insertion, or a USB port issue. 

    If Tesla USB Drive not working, try using a different drive or port, formatting the drive as exFAT or FAT32, rebooting your Tesla, and updating the firmware. If the drive is still not functioning, get help from Tesla.

    Tesla USB Drive Not Working

    Tesla USB Drive Not Working- Issues and Fixes

    There are several factors contributing to this problem, some of which are given below:

    1. Undetected Drive

    You could occasionally experience a problem where your drive is not recognized by your vehicle for the TeslaCam feature. In such circumstances, your automobile can either partially or completely fail to recognize the drive. 

    Partial detection would prevent the TeslaCam feature from working, but your car would still be able to find and play other media, including your USB files. If there was a total detection error, the car would not recognize your drive.

    Irrespective of the v10 update, this specific issue frequently occurs in automobiles. Fortunately, there are several solutions available to resolve this problem without having to replace your USB drive entirely.

    a. Verify the formatting was done properly

    A partition or format on a USB drive that is not familiar is the most frequent source of this issue. 

    You only need to confirm that your drive is formatted with the FAT32 file system in order to fix this. 

    • Download FAT32 formatting software now.
    • resize the drive.
    • Organize your files in a folder called “TeslaCam.” 
    • Check to see if TeslaCam is once more compatible.
    image

    b. Verify the TeslaCam Folder is there on your drive

    Your car requires a TeslaCam folder at the root level in order to save recordings and carry out features like Sentry Mode recordings. 

    If the drive was correctly formatted but the TeslaCam folder was not created, you can experience problems with the functionality. 

    • Ensure that FAT32 formatting is used on your drive.
    • Ensure that the root has a TeslaCam folder. 
    • Verify whether the drive is compatible with your car.
    Sentry Mode
    Sentry Mode

    2. Unable to Save or Record Files

    It happens so frequently that your USB storage device, which used to function flawlessly with your car, is now unable to record any files or store any files at all. Although this issue is not unique to the v10 update, it may potentially be related to it. 

    This problem is brought on by a very simple yet widespread flaw. Usually, repairing it with the following approach solves the problem.

    • Clean Up Extra Files on Your Storage

    The most obvious cause of this difficulty, if the drive has the proper format and has previously operated with your automobile without any problems, is full storage consumption. 

    All you have to do is go over your drive and remove any unnecessary files. However, you require extra room if Sentry Mode is also active. Tesla company suggests a drive have a minimum of 32 GB of free capacity.

    This specific step frequently makes this issue simple to resolve. 

    • If the problem persists, though, there might be an issue with your drive. 
    • whether so, try installing it on another device, such your laptop or phone, to see whether it still functions. 
    • To determine whether the problem occurred with the drive or your car, you can alternatively use alternative formatted drive with it.

    3. Compatibility Issues

    Teslas only work with USB devices that are exFAT or FAT32 formatted, no less than 32GB in size, and have a minimum read/write speed of 10MB/s.

    Some USB drives might not work with the hardware or software of the Tesla. This might occur if the USB drive is running an unsupported custom driver or firmware by the Tesla.

    Connect the USB drive to a computer, right-click on them and then select “Properties.” There, examine the file system. Make sure it has a minimum of 32GB. 

    If the read/write speed is less than 10MB/s, check it online and try a different USB drive. Test several USB ports. Restart your Tesla, and for compatibility, maintain the software updated.

    4. Corrupted Drive

    Your Tesla may experience a multitude of issues due to a harmed or corrupted drive, including

    • The Tesla might not detect the USB drive.
    • It’s possible that the Tesla can’t record music or video.
    • It’s possible that your Tesla wouldn’t be able to save Sentry Mode video 
    • There could be problems with the Tesla’s performance.

    The first step in fixing a corrupted or damaged disc in your Tesla is to back up any data that is currently stored on the drive. 

    Next, use a computer to reformat the drive in an effort to fix the problem; make sure to use either the Tesla-compatible FAT32 or exFAT file system. 

    Maintain it blank after formatting. Furthermore, make sure your Tesla’s software is current because newer releases frequently include bug patches and enhanced USB drive compatibility. 

    Consider trying an alternative USB disc that complies with Tesla’s requirements if reformatting doesn’t work. Test all of your Tesla’s USB ports, as some of them may operate differently. 

    These actions ought to aid in identifying and perhaps resolving your Tesla’s corrupted drive issue.

    Read Also: How to View the Tesla Sentry Mode Event Report?

    Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]

    How can I get to my USB drive from Tesla?

    The rear touchscreen has two USB charging connectors that may be found there. Inside the glovebox is one USB port. 

    How can I repair an unidentified USB drive?

    You can format a USB drive to clear its file system, upgrade the USB driver, install the disc driver again, recover USB data, and replace the USB drive letters.

    Will any USB work with my Tesla Dashcam?

    You can, indeed. The flash drive must, however, support USB 2.0.

    How many GB does the Tesla USB have?

    128 GB

    Do you require Tesla USB?

    When using Sentry Mode, footage must be stored and retrieved on a properly configured USB drive inserted into your car’s USB port (Tesla suggests using the glove compartment USB port, if available).

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    Daniyal Evans
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    Daniyal Evans is a passionate electric vehicle (EV) advocate and lead writer at EvSeekers, where he breaks down the latest in EV innovation, ownership tips, and industry trends for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. With a background in automotive engineering and a decade of experience test-driving and reviewing EVs, Daniyal combines technical expertise with a knack for translating complex tech into relatable insights.

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