Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Tesla HW3 vs HW4
Hardware 4 (also called AI4 or HW4) is Tesla's newer production driver-assistance computer and camera platform. It provides additional processing headroom and a newer higher-resolution camera suite. Software availability still varies by model, market, configuration, and installed version.
Tesla's FSD software is developed primarily for HW4. HW3 Model 3 and Model Y now receive the v14 Lite branch (wide release since July 2026). HW4 retains the full v14 branch, greater processing capacity, and higher-resolution cameras. If access to Tesla's newest FSD capabilities is important to you, verify the vehicle's hardware before purchasing.
Tesla has not announced a retrofit program from HW3 to HW4 for existing owners. Don't buy an HW3 vehicle assuming an HW4 upgrade will become available; if it matters to your decision, ask Tesla about the specific vehicle.
The result is an estimate based on reported manufacturing cutoff points for the HW3-to-HW4 transition. VIN patterns cannot confirm a specific vehicle's installed computer. Always confirm with Tesla or check the vehicle's "Additional Vehicle Information" screen before purchasing.
Recent US production of Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y, and Cybertruck generally uses HW4, but production timing and market configuration can vary. Confirm the computer label on the specific vehicle.
HW4Checker supports selected US Tesla VINs beginning with 5YJ, 7SA, or 7G2 for Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y, and Cybertruck. For VINs from unsupported factories or markets, the tool explains that it can't determine the hardware.
A red reflection on the front or side camera lenses and the newer camera housing can be useful HW4 clues. Reflections vary with lighting and photos, so confirm the computer label on the vehicle's touchscreen. See the Exterior Guide for examples.
Yes. If you have access to the touchscreen, inspect the Software and Additional Vehicle Information screens. Depending on the model and software version, HW3 may appear as 'Full Self-Driving Computer' or 'Hardware 3', while HW4 may appear as 'AI4 Computer' or 'Hardware 4'. This is the most reliable vehicle-specific check.
Tesla has not published a complete consumer specification or transition schedule for an AI5/HW5 computer. Treat future model-year results as a VIN-based estimate and confirm the installed computer on the vehicle's software screen.