The Tesla MCU is the hardware behind the Tesla infotainment display. Since the launch of the Model S in 2012, Tesla has installed four different versions of this hardware.
We explain the differences between these versions and the circumstances under which you can perform a Tesla MCU upgrade.
This is the Tesla MCU
MCU stands for "Media Control Unit". The term describes the hardware behind Tesla Infotainment - 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 communicates with the infotainment system but is a completely different component.
What are the differences between the versions?
Depending on the version of the MCU, the car manufacturer has installed different hardware in the vehicle. 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 to the end of 2015. It is therefore mainly found in older Model S models, in which a 17-inch portrait format display was already installed - which was actually unthinkable in vehicles at the time. The MCU0 is based on an Nvidia Tegra 3 processor and 8 GB of memory.
MCU1
The MCU1 was introduced at Tesla in December 2015. It does not differ from the MCU0 in terms of processor or memory, the only difference being a higher-resolution image from the rear view camera and an LTE instead of 3G connection.
For this reason, there are no compatibility problems 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 infotainment increased, and with it the demands on the underlying hardware became ever greater - until the MCU1 was no longer sufficient.
Since March 2018, the MCU2 has therefore been installed in all Tesla vehicles. Now an Intel Atom processor, supported by 64 GB of memory, controls the display and its functions. The hardware has also been upgraded to 5 GHz WLAN and a newer Bluetooth version. The advantages are manifold:
With the MCU2, you have full access to all the functions for which Tesla is known and loved today. These include video streaming, karaoke, arcade games and services such as Apple Music. For some of them, however, a subscription to Premium connectivity may be required for mobile use.
In addition to support for the functions mentioned, the infotainment system with the MCU2 has also become much faster, smoother and more responsive, which naturally increases ease of use.
MCU-Z
With the introduction of the new Model S and Model X 2021, the infotainment computer has been revised again. The MCU-Z hardware now has an AMD Ryzen processor and currently 256 GB of memory. However, all Model 3 and Model Y with Autopilot version 4 only have 128 GB of memory installed.
The performance of the MCU-Z is on a par with that of a PlayStation 5, which is why the Steam gaming platform has also been integrated into the Model S and Model X since then.
The MCU-Z is even faster than the MCU2, but otherwise does not differ greatly from its predecessor. The latest infotainment version is also notable for its high power consumption, which can even affect the vehicle's range.
Infotainment upgrade Tesla: up to 2.000 euros for upgrade
Over time, the infotainment computer in the Tesla has become more and more powerful. The leap from MCU1 to MCU2 in particular is huge and brings with it numerous new features and greater ease of use. And it is precisely this leap that Tesla is offering as an upgrade.
All Tesla drivers whose vehicle was built before March 2018 and therefore still has MCU0 or MCU1 can have MCU2 installed in their Tesla. However, this upgrade is not free, but costs €2000 depending on the version of the Autopilot computer (version 2.0 or 2.5) or 1.550 € (all other versions).
As the infotainment update is a hardware upgrade, a trip to the nearest service center is required. The appointment can be made in the Tesla app under the menu item "Other".
You can upgrade your car much more cheaply with high-quality Tesla accessories from Teslabs.
No more problems with eMMC chip
One advantage of the upgrade, apart from new features and faster operation, is the elimination of the risk of eMMC failure. The eMMC chip is the MCU's memory chip on which basic data, driver profiles and much more are stored. 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 accesses per memory cell, which wear out the chip and eventually lead to a guaranteed defect. If this happens, most vehicle functions can no longer be controlled and the display remains black.
As the eMMC chip grows to 64 GB with the upgrade to MCU2, the number of write accesses per cell is reduced and the chip lasts significantly longer - as a rule, it should survive the vehicle itself.
Problems with the MCU upgrade
Unfortunately, upgrading the MCU to MCU2 does not only have advantages. In concrete terms, this means that FM, AM and DAB radio can no longer be heard after the upgrade. Although music streaming and Internet radio remain available, those who like to listen to "normal" radio will be left out in the cold for the time being.
Tesla wouldn't be Tesla if they didn't have a possible solution. For €520, the manufacturer offers a radio upgrade that allows you to continue listening to the radio with the MCU2 - probably even in better quality. Only the AM radio cannot be saved with this. Doing without the classic radio seems to be the price for the better hardware.
How to find your autopilot version
To find the version of the Autopilot computer, tap Vehicle -> Software -> Additional vehicle information in the car. In this menu you will also find the current MCU of your Tesla, hidden in the information on the infotainment processor: MCU0 and MCU1 list the Nvidia Tegra, MCU2 the Intel Atom and MCU-Z the AMD Ryzen.
Note: All Model 3 and Y have either MCU2 or MCU-Z. MCU1 or MCU0 are only installed in older Model S and Model X.
Tesla MCU: Conclusion
The infotainment hardware, known as the MCU, in Teslas has become faster and more powerful from generation to generation. Today, it allows the features that make Tesla famous and popular. Thanks to the ability to upgrade to the MCU2, Tesla has enabled all its customers to experience the most advanced features since 2012.
Are you satisfied with your infotainment system? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!
