The Tesla MCU is the hardware behind the Tesla infotainment display. Since the launch of the Model S in 2012, Tesla has used four different versions of this hardware.
We explain the differences between these versions and under what circumstances you can perform a Tesla MCU upgrade.
This is the Tesla MCU
MCU stands for "Media Control Unit." The term describes the hardware behind the Tesla infotainment system—primarily the processor, but also memory chips and other electronic components. Without the MCU, the infotainment display and therefore numerous vehicle functions cannot be operated.
However, the MCU should not be confused with the autopilot computer, which does communicate with the infotainment system, but is a completely different component.
What are the differences between the versions?
Depending on the version of the MCU, Car manufacturers install different hardware in their vehicles. This determines the range of functions, but also the speed of operation and data connections.
MCU0
Tesla installed the first version of its infotainment system, the MCU0, from 2012 until the end of 2015. It is therefore primarily found in older Model S vehicles, which – practically unheard of in cars at the time – already featured a 17-inch portrait display. The MCU0 used an Nvidia Tegra 3 processor and 8 GB of memory.
MCU1
Tesla began using the MCU1 in December 2015. In terms of processor and memory, it does not differ from the MCU0; the only differences are a higher resolution image from the rear-view camera and an LTE connection instead of 3G.
For this reason, there are no compatibility issues between MCU0 and MCU1, which is why Tesla replaces every defective MCU0 with an MCU1.
MCU2
Over time, the number and quality of features in Tesla's infotainment system increased, and with that, the demands on the underlying hardware also grew ever higher – until the MCU1 was no longer sufficient.
Since March 2018, the MCU2 has been installed in all Tesla vehicles. An Intel Atom processor, supported by 64 GB of memory, now controls the display and its functions. The hardware has also been upgraded to 5 GHz Wi-Fi and a newer Bluetooth version. The advantages are numerous:
The MCU2 provides full access to all the features for which Tesla is known and loved today. These include video streaming, karaoke, arcade games, and services such as... Apple MusicHowever, for some of these, a subscription may be required for mobile use. Premium connectivity It may be necessary.
In addition to supporting the aforementioned functions, the infotainment system with the MCU2 has also become significantly faster, smoother and more responsive, which naturally increases ease of use.
MCU-Z
With the introduction of the new 2021 Model S and Model X, the infotainment computer was redesigned once again. The hardware, dubbed MCU-Z, now features an AMD Ryzen processor and currently 256 GB of memory. However, all Model 3 and Model Y vehicles equipped with Autopilot version 4 only have 128 GB of memory.
The performance The MCU-Z is on par with that of a PlayStation 5, which is why the Steam gaming platform has been integrated into the Model S and Model X ever since.
The MCU-Z is even faster than the MCU2, but otherwise doesn't differ significantly from its predecessor. Furthermore, the latest infotainment version is notable for its high power consumption, which in some cases even reduces the vehicle's range.
Tesla infotainment upgrade: up to 2.000 euros for upgrades
Over time, the infotainment computer in the Tesla has become increasingly powerful. The leap from MCU1 to MCU2, in particular, is significant, bringing numerous new features and improved user-friendliness. And it is precisely this upgrade that Tesla offers.
All Tesla owners whose vehicles were built before March 2018 and therefore still have an MCU0 or MCU1 can have the MCU2 installed in their Tesla. This upgrade is not free, however, and costs €2,000 (version 2.0 or 2.5) or €1,550 (all other versions), depending on the version of the Autopilot computer.
Since the infotainment update is a hardware upgrade, a trip to the nearest service center is necessary. The appointment can be scheduled in the Tesla app under the "Other" menu item.
You can upgrade your car much more cheaply with high-quality components. Tesla accessories by Teslabs.
No more problems with eMMC chip
One advantage of the upgrade, aside from new features and faster operation, is the elimination of the eMMC failure risk. The eMMC chip is the MCU's memory chip, storing basic data, driver profiles, and much more. Diagnostic data is also regularly written to it.
Since the chip in MCU0 and MCU1 is only 8 GB in size, this means countless write operations per memory cell, which wear out the chip and eventually lead to a guaranteed failure. When this happens, most vehicle functions can no longer be controlled, and the display remains black.
Since the eMMC chip grows to 64 GB with the upgrade to MCU2, the number of write operations per cell is reduced and the chip lasts significantly longer – as a rule, it should outlast the vehicle itself.
Problems with the MCU upgrade
Unfortunately, upgrading the MCU to MCU2 doesn't only have advantages. Specifically, it means that FM, AM, and DAB radio will no longer be available after the upgrade. While music streaming and internet radio remain accessible, those who enjoy listening to "regular" radio are out of luck.
But Tesla wouldn't be Tesla if they didn't offer a solution. For €520, the manufacturer offers a radio upgrade that allows you to use the... MCU2 can continue listening to the radio – Probably even in better quality. Only AM radio can't be saved even with this. Giving up on classic radio seems to be the price to pay for the to be better hardware.
How to find your Autopilot version
To determine the version of the autopilot computer, tap Vehicle in the car.&Software -&Additional vehicle information. In this menu, you will also find your Tesla's current MCU, hidden within the infotainment processor information: MCU0 and MCU1 list the Nvidia Tegra, MCU2 the Intel Atom, and MCU-Z the AMD Ryzen.
Note: All Model 3 and Model Y vehicles have either MCU2 or MCU-Z. MCU1 or MCU0 are exclusively found in older Model S and Model X vehicles.
Tesla MCU: Conclusion
The infotainment hardware, called MCU, has become faster and more powerful in Teslas with each generation. It enables the features that make Teslas famous and popular. Thanks to The option to upgrade to the MCU2 has allowed Tesla to enable all its customers to experience the most modern features since 2012.
Are you satisfied with your infotainment system? Share your experience in the comments!
