If you own a Tesla and have experienced problems with the web browser not working, you are not alone.
Many Tesla owners have reported issues with the web browser, such as slow loading, freezing, crashing, or not displaying some websites properly.
In this article, we will explore some of the possible causes and solutions for the Tesla web browser not working issue.
Why Tesla Web Browser Not Working?
#1. Outdated WebKit Engine
One of the main reasons why Tesla’s web browser is not working well is that it is based on an outdated version of WebKit, the engine that powers many web browsers such as Safari and Chrome.
WebKit is responsible for rendering web pages and executing JavaScript code, which is essential for modern websites.
However, the version of WebKit that Tesla uses is from 2013, which means that it does not support many of the latest web standards and features.
This results in compatibility issues, performance problems, and security risks.
For example, some users have complained that they cannot sign into Google or YouTube on the Tesla web browser, because these services require a more secure version of WebKit.
Other users have reported that the web browser does not support streaming video or audio, such as Spotify or Hulu.
Some websites may not load at all, or display incorrectly because they use newer technologies that are not supported by the old WebKit.
#2. Limited Resources And Capabilities
Another reason why Tesla’s web browser is not working well is that it has limited resources and capabilities compared to other devices.
The web browser runs on the MCU (Media Control Unit), which is the computer that controls the touchscreen and other functions in the car.
The MCU has a limited amount of memory, storage, and processing power, which means that it cannot handle complex or heavy web pages.
Moreover, the MCU has to share its resources with other tasks, such as navigation, music, climate control, and voice commands. This can cause the web browser to lag or crash when there is too much demand.
#3. Variable Internet Connection
Furthermore, Tesla’s web browser depends on the internet connection of the car, which can vary depending on the location and network availability.
The web browser uses either Wi-Fi or LTE to access the internet, but both options have their limitations. Wi-Fi may not be available everywhere or may have a weak signal or low speed.
LTE may have better coverage and speed, but it also consumes more battery and data. Additionally, some websites may be blocked or restricted by certain networks or regions.
#4. Chromium Update
Tesla is aware of the issues with its web browser and has promised to improve it in future software updates.
In 2019, Tesla CEO Elon Musk tweeted that the web browser will be updated to run on Chromium, which is the open-source project behind Google Chrome.
Chromium is more modern and secure than WebKit and supports more web standards and features. However, as of July 2023, this update has not been rolled out to all Tesla models yet.
#5. Software glitches
The web browser may have some bugs or errors that prevent it from loading or displaying web pages correctly. Sometimes, the web browser may crash or freeze due to a software issue.
#6. Web standards
The web browser may not be compatible with some of the latest web standards or technologies that are used by modern websites.
For example, some websites may use HTML5, JavaScript, or CSS3 features that are not supported by the Tesla web browser. This may result in broken or incomplete web pages.
#7. Web security
The web browser may not be able to access some websites that require a secure connection or authentication.
For example, some Google services like Gmail or YouTube may not work on the Tesla web browser because they consider it insecure. This may result in an error message or a blank page.
How To Fix Tesla Web Browser Not Working Issue?
How can you fix the Tesla web browser not working issue? There are some possible solutions that you can try to improve the performance and reliability of the web browser, such as:
#1. Reboot the system
One of the simplest and most effective ways to fix the web browser issue is to reboot the system. This can clear any temporary files or cache that may cause problems for the web browser.
To reboot the system, you can press and hold both scroll buttons on the steering wheel until the touchscreen goes black and restarts.
#2. Update the software
Another way to fix the web browser issue is to update the software to the latest version.
This can resolve any bugs or errors that may affect the web browser. Tesla regularly releases software updates that include new features, improvements, and fixes for various issues.
You can check for software updates on your touchscreen display or on your Tesla app.
#3. Use Wi-Fi
Another way to fix the web browser issue is to use Wi-Fi instead of cellular data. Wi-Fi can provide a faster and more stable internet connection than cellular data, which can improve the loading and display of web pages.
You can connect your Tesla to a Wi-Fi network by tapping on the LTE icon on the top right corner of your touchscreen display and selecting a network.
#4. Wait for Chromium
Another way to fix the web browser issue is to wait for Chromium. Chromium is a new web browser that is based on the same open-source project as Google Chrome.
It is expected to replace the current web browser in Tesla cars soon. According to Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Chromium will offer a better and faster browsing experience than the current web browser.
However, there is no official date for when Chromium will be available for Tesla cars.
Conclusion
Tesla’s web browser is not working well because it is based on an outdated version of WebKit, has limited resources and capabilities, and relies on variable internet connection.
Tesla has announced plans to update the web browser to Chromium, but it is unclear when this will happen for all models. Until then, Tesla owners may have to resort to using their smartphones or tablets for browsing the web in their cars.
