Tesla has been a pioneer in the automotive industry, continually making advances to its cars through software updates and state-of-the-art hardware. Perhaps the most highly anticipated of the updates includes Tesla’s Hardware 4 (HW4), which will be said to have improved self-driving capabilities, security features, and computing power. So as a Tesla owner and you are looking to know how to put Hardware 4 (HW4) in your car, you have come to the right guide as we will break down everything you need to know about availability, upgrade, (used) car and does your Tesla even qualify for the latest hardware.
What is Tesla Hardware 4 (HW4) exactly?
Before discussing how to acquire HW4, it’s important to know what Hardware 4 is and how it’s different from previous versions.
Key Features of HW4:
Brighter Neural Network Processing to Empower Improved Full Self-Driving (FSD) Capabilities – HW4 can add and behold more neural network processing, therefore allowing Tesla’s FSD to be stronger than ever
Higher Resolution Cameras
Tesla reconfigured the cameras to deliver higher-res for better visibility of Autopilot and FSD.
New Radar System
HW4 brings back radar, which helps improved detection of objects in low-visibility conditions as compared to HW3.
Improved Processing Speed
The new hardware has a larger AI chip in it which is for quicker decision-making
Enhanced Safety Features
Safety was prioritized by Tesla with redundant features built into the system for added reliability.
These features, in addition to the previously mentioned ones, greatly enhance Tesla’s autonomous driving capabilities and its safety, making HD4 a coveted option.
Does Your Tesla Feature Hardware 4?
HW4 started to be deployed by Tesla in 2023, with the newer models. If you don’t know whether your car has HW4 or not, do the following to find out:
Model & Year of Your Vehicle
HW4 is available in:
2023+ Model S and Model X
2023+ M3 Highland (Facelift Model)
Model Y (select versions) 2024
YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO RETROFIT HW4 ON:
Aged Model S & Model X & Model 3 & Model Y
Cybertruck (currently Cybertruck ships with HW4)
Inspect Your Car’s Software Menu
Can You Upgrade to Hardware 4?
One of the most asked questions Tesla drivers have is: What is the HW3 to HW4 upgrade for my Tesla?
Please note that HW4 retrofits are NOT offered for older non HW4 Tesla vehicles (as of Oct 2023). Unlike the HW2 to HW3 upgrade, Tesla has not said it plans to offer an upgrade route for existing cars to HW4. Reasons for this decision include:
Different Camera and Sensor Placement
HW4 uses a new camera system, so it’s hard to retrofit older cars.
More Powerful Computer
The HW4 system needs a new sort of motherboard and wiring, making it incompatible with HW3 vehicles.
How to Upgrade to Hardware 4 in Your Tesla
So if you really want HW4, you have a couple of options:
Buy a New Tesla with HW4
The most certain method to obtain Hardware 4 is to buy a new Tesla with it included. If you’re shopping for a new Tesla, be sure you’re getting one with HW4 by:
A New Model S or Model X (all 2023+ variants come with HW4).
*Waiting for HW4-equipped Model Y (coming to more territories in 2024)]
Purchase new Model 3 Highland with HW4 already on it.
Confirming the build date to be checked before buying (Tesla is likely to manufacture HW3 & HW4 models in the same assembly).
Buy a Used Tesla with HW4
If you’re not interested in purchasing a wholly new Tesla, seek out a used Tesla with HW4. But HW4 is still quite new so these vehicles will likely remain on the pricey end of the scale.
To confirm HW4 on the used Tesla:
Production date (identified to be 2023 or later).
Vehicle information in the Tesla menu in the screen.
The camera setup (HW4 models have variable camera locations)
Stay Tuned for Future Tesla Announcements
Tesla updates its regulations frequently to reflect improvements in technology and customer interest. Although retrofits aren’t available today, it’s not out of the question that Tesla could offer HW4 upgrades at some point in the future.
Keep an eye on:
From Tesla’s own website and updates
The tweets and announcements of Elon Musk
Forums and communities of Tesla owners
Might You Wait for HW4 or Get in on Your Existing Tesla?
If you already have a Tesla equipped with HW3, you might naturally be asking yourself whether HW4 is worth it enough to make you upgrade your car. Here’s what to consider:
Stay with HW3 If:
You already have FSD Beta and like it.
You do not depend on self-driving capabilities and you use the base Autopilot level.
You would rather wait to hear if there is a possible HW4 retrofit announcement.
Upgrade to HW4 If:
You have the data up to October 2023 and want the best self-driving experience with improved AI.
You’re buying a new Tesla anyways and want hardware for the future.
You want better safety features, such as radar and new cameras.
HW3 is still more than capable for most owners, and Tesla keeps making FSD better with software updates. But if you’re an aficionado of cutting-edge tech, it may be worth your while to upgrade to an HW4 Tesla.
HW5 and the Future of Tesla Hardware
Tesla is forever keen on new features for its Autopilot and FSD. HW4 is still just rolling out, but many people are already asking about Hardware 5 (HW5).
When Will HW5 Arrive?
Projected Release: 2026 or beyond
Anticipated Features: Even smarter AI, upgraded cameras, and enhanced radar
Candidate Vehicles: New generation Tesla vehicles, Tesla Robotaxi
HW4 is a huge leap, but Tesla isn’t done innovating. You may want to hold off on grabbing HW4 for a bit if you’re not in a rush to have it.
Conclusion:
Tesla’s Hardware 4 is a giant leap in self-driving technology, but you might want to skip it.
There is not a retrofit available for HW3 Teslas.
For HW4 you are basically forced to purchase a new Tesla that has HW4.
It’s still a great HW3 Tesla even if FSD is not a priority.
Tesla’s future of self-driving looks incredible, and while HW4 offers some genuinely stellar upgrades, HW3 is still plenty capable for the vast majority of drivers. Tesla will most likely announce retrofits at some point in the future if they’re made available. In the meantime, staying up to date and considering your options is the best course of action.
