Automatic cleaning for better visibility & reliable autopilot functions
Tesla has confirmed that the company is working on a "comprehensive cleaning solution" for the vehicle cameras. This announcement was made via X (formerly Twitter)after users reported that the rear view camera of the Cybertruck is affected particularly quickly by dirt or rain - especially when driving off-road or in winter conditions.
Whether this new cleaning function is only available for the Cybertruck or also for other Tesla-models is still unclear. It also remains unclear whether a retrofit solution for existing vehicles is planned.
Why is a cleaning solution necessary?
Tesla sets for Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) relies entirely on cameras instead of radar or LiDAR sensors. These cameras enable 360-degree viewbut they have a decisive disadvantage:
❄️ Winter conditions - Snow, ice and road salt block visibility.
🌧 Mud and rain - Water streaks and dirt impair camera quality.
🚗 Off-road driving - Dust and dirt settle on the lenses.
If the cameras are covered by dirt, the system can cannot work optimally - in some cases FSD functions are deactivatedwhich forces drivers to clean the cameras manually.
Possible solutions for the camera problem
Tesla has not yet provided any technical details, but several approaches are conceivable:
🔹 Automatic spray system - Similar to headlight cleaning systems, a small nozzle could spray the camera with cleaning fluid.
🔹 Hydrophobic coatings - One water and dirt repellent coating on the lenses could minimize deposits.
🔹 Compressed air cleaning - On air jet could blow away dust or water.
An initial solution has Tesla already been introduced: The Cybertruck has a spray nozzle for the front camera. However, this function is currently missing for the Rear view cameraalthough this is particularly susceptible to dirt.
Does the cleaning solution for all Tesla-models?
Tesla has not yet confirmed whether the new cleaning system only for new vehicles or will also be available as retrofit for existing vehicles Model Y and Model 3 is offered. If the technology proves successful, a integration into all Tesla-models would make senseespecially in regions with severe winter conditions.
Conclusion: Tesla working on important solution for FSD & autopilot
The development of a automatic camera cleaning could be a big step forward for the safety and reliability of of Tesla's driver assistance systems. Especially for Drivers in snowy regions this would be a welcome improvement. It remains to be seen when exactly the new technology will arrive and whether it will be possible to retrofit it to existing vehicles.
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