Are you a proud Tesla S owner who's recently noticed your car's screen acting up? You're not alone. Some Tesla S owners have reported issues where their touchscreen resets or behaves erratically. This could be due to a recent software update, and we're here to help you understand and potentially resolve this issue.
Understanding the Tesla S Screen Reset Issue
The Tesla S's infotainment system is a crucial part of the driving experience, offering navigation, entertainment, and vehicle controls. However, some owners have reported that after a software update, their screen starts acting strangely. This could manifest as the screen freezing, resetting, or displaying garbled text. While this can be frustrating, it's often a software glitch that can be resolved.
Potential Causes
- Software Update: The most common cause of this issue is a recent software update. While these updates are designed to improve your driving experience, they can sometimes cause temporary glitches.
- Hardware Issue: In some cases, the issue might not be software-related. It could be a hardware problem with the touchscreen itself.
- Third-Party Apps: If you've installed any third-party apps, they might be causing conflicts with the system.
Steps to Troubleshoot the Issue
Before you take your Tesla S to a service center, there are a few steps you can take to try and resolve the issue at home.

1. Soft Reset
A soft reset can often resolve minor software glitches. Here's how to do it:
- Press and hold the two touch buttons on the steering wheel until the screen turns off.
- Wait for a few seconds, then press the brake pedal and turn the ignition to 'On'.
2. Update Your Software
If your software is not up-to-date, this could be causing the issue. You can check for updates in your Tesla's settings. If there's an update available, install it and see if the issue persists.
3. Remove Third-Party Apps
If you've installed any third-party apps, try removing them temporarily to see if that resolves the issue.

4. Check for Hardware Issues
If the above steps don't work, there might be a hardware issue. You can check for any physical damage to the touchscreen. If you notice any, it's time to take your Tesla S to a service center.
When to Visit a Service Center
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it's time to visit a Tesla service center. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix any hardware issues that might be causing the problem.
What to Expect at the Service Center
When you visit a Tesla service center, they'll first run a diagnostic test to identify the problem. If it's a software issue, they might be able to fix it on the spot. If it's a hardware issue, they'll order the necessary parts and schedule a follow-up appointment to make the repair.
Preventing Future Issues
While you can't prevent all software glitches, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk:
- Keep your software up-to-date.
- Be cautious when installing third-party apps.
- Regularly perform a soft reset to clear any temporary glitches.
Remember, it's normal for software to have minor glitches from time to time. If you're experiencing a screen reset issue with your Tesla S, don't panic. Try the troubleshooting steps above, and if the issue persists, don't hesitate to visit a service center.