For a long time, there was speculation about whether and when Tesla Matrix LED Finally being introduced as a headlight technology – the time has come. However, while all Tesla Model Y vehicles will receive Matrix LED headlights, only newer Model S and X vehicles will benefit from the upgrade. Similarly, Matrix LED headlights are only available for newer Tesla Model 3 models.
Is your Tesla among those equipped with the new technology? And what exactly is "Matrix LED"? Find out here!
Tesla Matrix LED – this is what it's about
Matrix LED is a technology that aims to use the high beams of the headlights continuously during night driving without dazzling other road users. This is made possible because the light beam is generated by a matrix of numerous small LEDs – pixels.
If another vehicle is in the beam, the relevant pixels of the matrix are simply switched off. This prevents the oncoming driver from being blinded, while the rest of the surroundings remain fully illuminated.
Tesla Matrix LED Software Update
This technology is not new; similar headlights are used by competing manufacturers. It has been available for some time. What's new is the way it was introduced: The "Adaptive High Beam" was made available to customers via a software update and without any need to visit a workshop; the necessary hardware had already been installed in the cars for a long time.
Matrix LED headlights allow Tesla to catch up with the competition with minimal effort. Customers won't even have to pay extra – another unique selling point for the American manufacturer. Those who want to activate Matrix LED headlights can do so in the settings under... Lighting – Adaptive high beam do.
Tesla Model Y Matrix LED and Tesla Model 3 Matrix LED: Which cars will receive the upgrade?
Tesla announced Matrix LED headlights towards the end of 2023. As planned, they were initially introduced in the Tesla Model 3 Highland, but other models quickly followed. Since March 2024, the corresponding update, designated "2024.8," has been available for the following vehicles:
Newer Model 3 and Tesla Model Y Matrix LED 2023, 2022, 2021
The Model Y is the lucky winner of the Matrix LED update. All vehicles of this type are eligible for the new technology.
At the Model 3 Compatibility begins in December 2020, with the long-range version following slightly later. This depends on whether the correct headlights are installed; these can be identified by a lens positioned towards the edge of the vehicle.
The Tesla Model S Matrix LED activation also depends on the installed hardware. Matrix LED compatibility can be expected in vehicles manufactured from 2022 onwards.
The least lucky Model X driversThey should not have purchased a vehicle built before June 2023.
Retrofitting Tesla Model 3 Matrix LED headlights
So there are quite a few Tesla drivers who miss out on matrix LED headlights. Is it possible to retrofit the technology? The good news: Yes, at least in the Model 3. The bad news: Retrofitting is neither cheap nor straightforward.
First, suitable headlights must be purchased for approximately €1500 each, followed by installation and configuration of the vehicle software. This requires Tesla Service Mode and the paid Toolbox. Read more about it here. Tesla Maintenance Tools.
Tesla describes the replacement process in detail in the Model 3 workshop manual under Electrical -&outdoor lights -&Retrofit headlights (SAE-to-global).The conversion is not currently offered in most service centers, so you will have to rely on independent workshops or your own skills.
Finally, the question remains, of course, whether the matrix LED functionality is worth the cost of 3,500 to 4,000 euros to you. For that money, you can also get a lot more. practical Tesla accessories acquire something that will also sweeten your everyday life with your vehicle.
