MCU Versions

The Media Control Unit (MCU) is the infotainment computer behind the center touchscreen. SC01 vehicles will almost always have MCU1 from the factory, but many have been upgraded to MCU2.

MCU12012 – March 2018

MCU1 (Nvidia Tegra)

Processor: NVIDIA Tegra 3

The original infotainment computer installed in early Model S and Model X vehicles. While functional, it has known longevity issues.

Pros

  • +Original equipment, no modification needed
  • +Functional for basic navigation and vehicle controls

Cons

  • –Becomes increasingly sluggish over time
  • –eMMC flash memory is known to fail (limited write cycles)
  • –Does not support Netflix, YouTube, or other streaming apps
  • –Lower screen refresh rate (30 fps)
  • –Web browser is very slow
  • –Tesla has recalled some MCU1 units due to memory failure
MCU1 vehicles can be upgraded to MCU2 by Tesla Service for approximately $1,500–$2,000. This is highly recommended for a significantly improved experience.
MCU2March 2018+

MCU2 (Intel Atom)

Processor: Intel Atom E3950

The upgraded infotainment computer that provides a dramatically smoother experience with modern app support.

Pros

  • +Significantly faster and more responsive touchscreen
  • +60 fps screen refresh rate (double MCU1)
  • +Supports Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Disney+ streaming
  • +Faster web browser
  • +Better voice command processing
  • +Improved Sentry Mode viewer
  • +Supports dashcam viewer
  • +Can run Tesla Arcade games

Cons

  • –Only available from factory after March 2018
  • –Retrofit cost if upgrading from MCU1
MCU Upgrade Recommendation
If the vehicle still has MCU1, strongly consider upgrading to MCU2. The improvement is dramatic: faster touchscreen, streaming apps, better navigation, and elimination of the eMMC flash memory failure issue. The $1,500–$2,000 cost is well worth it for the quality-of-life improvement.