Understanding Common Tesla Concerns: Taillights, Cameras, and Trim Discoloration
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Tesla vehicles are relatively new to the car market, and this often means that customers may have concerns about their operation or functions as they familiarize with a new kind of vehicle.
This article will go over the most common concerns we see about Tesla vehicles, what is expected operation, and when to seek further assistance should you notice an issue.
Taillight & Pillar Camera Condensation
Many, though not all, early versions of the Model S, 3, and Y feature an open-back taillight design. This design was created to allow for heat dissipation and ventilation in order to prevent LED overheating and extend the lifespan of the lights’ internal electronic components. Newer Model S’s and 3’s, as well as all Model X’s, feature a sealed taillight design.
Additionally, the B-pillar camera housings are fitted in such a way that some heat can dissipate through the pillars and cause light condensation in the camera housings.
This small amount of fogging or condensation in the taillights and B-Pillar Cameras is considered normal, particularly in instances of large temperature changes or humid environments. You may see that the B-Pillar cameras send “camera blocked/blinded” alerts to your touchscreen when condensation is present. These alerts will resolve on their own once the condensation dries.
To dry out any present condensation, precondition your vehicle either via the main touchscreen, the Tesla App, or by utilizing the “Scheduled Departure” setting. Preconditioning will activate your Tesla’s heat and/or A/C system, which will help remove moisture from fixtures like the cameras and taillights.
Please note, if you observe standing water in any lights or cameras, or condensation that does not dry out after 24-48 hours, you may need a light or camera replacement.
Autowiper Function
The Tesla Autowiper system uses the Autopilot camera system to engage and control the windshield wipers.
Since the Autowipers are camera-based, they can occasionally be activated by dirt or debris on the windshield. They can also become blinded by sun glare in particularly bright conditions, or have delayed activation during light rain/mists.
To help the Autowiper feature function at its best, we recommend keeping the windshield clean and doing occasional wipe-downs of the windshield camera. This camera is located at the top-center of the windshield, immediately behind the rearview mirror.
If the Autowipers fail to activate when you wish them to, use the manual wiper controls to activate and set wipers to the desired speed.
If your Autowiper feature is failing to activate at all, or is presenting an alert on your primary touchscreen, you may need to seek service for a diagnostic.
Brightwork Discoloration
The black brightwork on Tesla vehicles - otherwise known as window trim - can become discolored after being exposed to high-alkaline solutions such as those typically used in “touchless” car washes.
The discoloration can be corrected in most cases by using a mildly abrasive polish or mild acid solution.
If you note discoloration on your vehicle’s brightwork, first, try cleaning the surface with a damp microfiber cloth while applying firm pressure. If this does not remove the discoloration, apply car polish to a microfiber cloth and then make several firm passes over the discolored area.
If polish still does not remove the staining, apply a 1% hydrochloric acid solution to a microfiber cloth and firmly wipe the area of the discoloration.
Following these steps, in most cases, fully removes any discoloration from the window trim. In the event they do not, you can purchase replacement trims. However, the Tesla Warranty will not cover replacement brightwork due to discoloration, as the damage comes from cleaning product usage.
Blind Spot Camera Turn Signal Glare
On some 2021 and early 2022 Tesla models, the light from the turn signals is visible in your on-screen blind spot camera feed when the turn signals are activated. This is due to the camera positioning on these vehicles and the brightness of turn signal LEDs.
This is a characteristic of older Tesla cameras and is not considered a manufacturing flaw or defect. The cameras have been adjusted in newer models to modify the camera angle and reduce glare. You can purchase these new cameras for your vehicle if you wish to replace them.
Camera Blocked/Blinded Alerts
In some cases, you may notice Autopilot Camera Blocked or Blinded alerts on your primary touchscreen.
In a majority of cases, this is caused by dirt or debris on the camera lenses, sun glare, or inclement weather.
To reduce these alerts, ensure your vehicle is clean. You can wipe the cameras down with a microfiber cloth to remove any debris or dust that may be obscuring the lenses.
In cases of sun glare or inclement weather, the alerts will resolve on their own once the glare or weather conditions are no longer present.
If you note that a camera is persistently giving “camera blocked or blinded” alerts even after ensuring the camera is clean and nothing environmental is impacting its visibility, you may need to schedule a service appointment for further diagnostics.
Conclusion
The unique build and features of Tesla vehicles can sometimes cause confusion as new owners adjust to a new vehicle. In most cases, these concerns result from intended vehicle operation and can be rectified easily.
However, if you are experiencing continual issues or alerts, Amber is happy to help. With our complimentary remote diagnostic inspection, we can identify potential issues and ensure your vehicle is operating at its best.
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