For a long time there was speculation as to whether and when Tesla Matrix LED would finally be introduced as a headlamp technology - now the time has come. But while all Tesla Model Ys will receive Matrix LED, only newer Model S and X vehicles will benefit from the upgrade. In a similar vein, Matrix LED is only available for newer models of the Tesla Model 3.
Is your Tesla among the recipients of the new technology? And what is "Matrix LED" actually about? Find out here!
Tesla Matrix LED - what it's all about
Matrix LED is a technology that aims to use the high beam of the headlights continuously when driving at night without dazzling other road users. This is possible because the cone of light is generated by a matrix of numerous small LEDs - pixels.
If another vehicle is now in the light cone, the relevant pixels of the matrix are simply switched off. This means that the oncoming driver is not dazzled, while the rest of the surroundings continue to be illuminated with full beam power.
Tesla Matrix LED software update
This technology is not new; such headlights have been available from competing manufacturers for some time. What is new is the way it was introduced: "Adaptive high beam" was made available to customers via a software update and without the need for a workshop visit; the necessary hardware had already been installed in the cars for a long time.
This is how Matrix LED brings Tesla back into line with the competition without much effort. There is not even a surcharge for customers - another unique selling point of the Americans. If you now want to activate Matrix LED, you can do this in the settings under Lighting - Adaptive high beam.
Tesla Model Y Matrix LED and Tesla Model 3 Matrix LED: Which cars will get the upgrade?
Tesla had announced Matrix LED 2023 towards the end of the year. As planned, Highland Matrix LED was first introduced in the Tesla Model 3, but other models quickly followed. Since March 2024, the corresponding update with the identifier "2024.8" available for the following vehicles:
Younger Model 3 and Tesla Model Y Matrix LED 2023, 2022, 2021
The Model Y is the lucky winner of the Matrix LED update. Without exception, all vehicles of this type are qualified for the new technology.
For the Model 3, compatibility will begin in December 2020, for the Long Range version a little later. Here it is important to check whether the correct headlights are installed; these can be recognized by a lens installed towards the edge.
The Tesla Model S matrix LED activation also depends on the installed hardware. Matrix LED suitability is expected from 2022 onwards.
Less lucky are Model X drivers, they should not have bought a vehicle built before June 2023.
Tesla Model 3 Matrix LED retrofit
So there are definitely a number of Tesla drivers who are missing out on Matrix LED. So can the technology be retrofitted? The good news is that it can, at least in the Model 3. The bad news is that retrofitting is neither cheap nor trivial.
First of all, appropriate headlights must be installed for approx. 1500 per unit, followed by installation and configuration of the vehicle software. This requires the Tesla Service Mode and the Toolbox, which is subject to a charge. Read more about the Tesla maintenance tools here.
Tesla describes the replacement process in detail in the Model 3 workshop manual under Electrics -> Exterior lights -> Retrofit headlights (SAE-to-global). The conversion is not yet offered in most service centers, so you will have to rely on independent workshops or your own skills.
Finally, of course, the question remains as to whether the matrix LED functionality is worth the cost of 3.500 to 4.000 euros is worth. For this money, you can also purchase all kinds of practical Tesla accessories that will also sweeten your everyday life with your vehicle.