Tesla Not Connecting to WiFi: Problems and Solutions for Seamless Connectivity

The Wi-Fi buffering and not accessing is a big pain for Tesla riders because it does not allow the use of Spotify, and Netflix nor does it support software updates.

The reasons why Tesla Wifi not connecting are SIM system fault, the need for software update, less access range, wrong wireless bandwidth, and antenna bugs. To fix this error, you only need to reset, update software, use a Wi-Fi extender, and act where needed.

In this guide, I’ll break that down by presenting the solutions based on the problem. Let’s Dive into The Detail!

Tesla Wifi Not Connecting – Problems, Causes, & Fixes!

Troubleshooting Tesla Wi-Fi might seem confusing at first glance but it’s a piece of cake if you are able to spot the cause. All you need is to read the given details to match with your and immediately solve the issue by attempting.

Trouble #1: Wi-Fi Turned Off

In rare cases, you might see the error message like Wi-Fi Is Turned Off (It will restart next time you drive) on Tesla. It happens due to a SIM system fault that causes this kind of issue. If that’s what you are seeing on the screen, then here’s the solution.

How To Fix

Starting with holding the 2 scroll buttons on the steering wheel for around 10 – 12 seconds. Then, the screen will go black and blank after 30 – 40 seconds. And, you won’t see the ‘T splash’ screen during the procedure.

Next, wait for 15 – 20 minutes to reset Tesla Wi-Fi in one shot. Once it’s done, go to Wi-Fi Settings and select the network that you want to turn on.

Then, mark the box of Remain connected in Drive. This will help your car to stay connected even if you change the gear to Drive or Reverse.

After that, look at the top of the screen to locate the yellow or orange spot that indicates a software update available. If it shows, just click on it to update that’ll fix internal bugs.

Note: Do not take out USB plugs or open the door during the reset.

Trouble #2: Tesla Wi-Fi Will Not Turn On

It’s another error that occurs especially when you delay updating the software in the phone app (Tesla). If you keep on avoiding vital updates like FSD Beta 10.69.2.2, this may cause bugs like Tesla Model Y, 3, S, and X not connecting to Wi-Fi. In that case, fix it like this.

How To Fix?

• You’ll need to turn on the Bluetooth on your phone and Tesla screen. If it shows some kind of bug, check Tesla Bluetooth troubleshooting to fix the issue now!
• Next, connect/pair the phone to the Tesla screen.
• Afterward, use your phone and click on the Tesla app. If the app shows issues to work, check this guide to fix it ASAP.
• Therefore, you’ll see Software Update (Download 2022.20.17 or latest version) option in the top section and click on this option.
• Then, hit the INSTALL bar to start the update.
• After this, wait for some minutes.
• Now, check the Tesla Wi-Fi connection after that by turning it off and then on.

Note: If Tesla is not connecting to Wi-Fi, forget the saved Wi-Fi network (go to Controls > Wi-Fi option > Wi-Fi Settings > Select the network > Forget Network > Forget) and then reconnect it.

Trouble #3: Tesla Not Detecting Wi-Fi

A lot of times Tesla can’t detect the network which is saved before no matter how long your scan. It happens due to low access points that can’t be able to connect. Look below to resolve the issue of Tesla Model 3, Y, S, and X Wi-Fi not working:

How To Fix?

• Just click on the screen Controls> Wi-Fi option at the top section.
• Then, turn on the Wi-Fi and then turn it off. Again, turn it on to locate the home Wi-Fi.
• If nothing helps, use a Wi-Fi range extender that suits Tesla like TP-Link AC1900 (RE550). Attach the Wi-Fi extender to the electric outlet near the Tesla car.
• Next, get inside the car, click on the Wi-Fi option, and wait for the saved networks to load.
• After that, connect the saved Wi-Fi network. Done!

Pro Tip: If you don't see a known Wi-Fi network on the list, shift the car closer to the access point.

Trouble #4: Tesla Not Finding Home Wi-Fi

Out of all series, it’s a common issue of Tesla Model 3 that Wi-Fi not working due to the antenna fault or usage of an incompatible network. You’ll find the antenna in the passenger or driver’s side mirror. To fix the error of Tesla can’t find Wi-Fi, do the following steps:

How To Fix?

• To begin with, check the Wi-Fi bandwidth to confirm it’s using 2.4 GHz, not 5 GHz. If your car supports the 5 GHz network, then check its channels based on your region. Here are the supported channels for the 5 GHz network:
• 36-48 channel.
• 52-64 channel.
• 100-140 channel.
• 149-165 channel.

Then, detach the trim panel from the passenger or driver’s side mirror (based on your car series) and locate the antenna nearby. Inside the side mirror, you can see 2 antennas (the big one is the LTE antenna and the small one is the Wi-Fi antenna).

After that, unplug the wire to take out the antenna and check its condition. If it seems good, insert it back or else replace the part.

Another thing you can do is to try using the directional beam to focus on the signal in the Tesla’s direction. And if it doesn’t work, turn off Bluetooth on your phone so that the Tesla avoids using it and spending the battery.

Connecting Tesla to Wi-Fi Model Y, X, S, & 3!

Firstly, get inside your car and then touch the Controls> Wi-Fi option on the upper section of the Controls screen.

Next, wait for the Wi-Fi to scan. It’ll take a few seconds and ensure the Wi-Fi network is within the range.

Afterward, spot the Wi-Fi network that matches your network name. Once you find it, click the matched Wi-Fi network. Then, enter the password if it’s the first time and press the Confirm.

Lastly, let it connect that takes some seconds. Now, the car will automatically connect to the Wi-Fi network when detected nearby.

Connecting Tesla to Hidden Wi-Fi Model Y, X, S, & 3!

You can easily link your Tesla car to a hidden network that people can’t see from the scanned networks.

To do that, just go to Controls and then locate the Wi-Fi option at the top-right section (LTE with signal bar icon).

Next, click on it and you’ll be able to see the Wi-Fi networks list. Then, press the Wi-Fi Settings option at the bottom.

After that, type the network name (which is hidden) in the dialog box (Add Wi-Fi Network) and then click the security setting. Now, hit on Add Network.

Ending Notes

Now that you are aware of the Tesla Wifi not working issue along with its causes and fixes, there’s nothing to panic about. Just try the above method based on the issue that you are facing. Try it and see the result for yourself. Good Luck!