Tesla 2020.48.5 software update rolls out with several minor improvements

Tesla started deploying their latest software update this afternoon, 2020.48.5, and included with it a number of smaller improvements for owners of all vehicles, including one specific for Canadians.

Update: According to Tesla hacker @greentheonly, there are two more updates despite them not being in the release notes. The first is an update to fix for Model X keyfobs to prevent them from being hacked. The other is mention of a new 5G cell modem in all Tesla vehicles (S,3,X,Y). It is unclear at this point if any cars have actually been produced yet with the new modems installed.

Autosteer Stop Sign and Stop Light Warning

This feature was first released earlier this year in 2020.36 series of software updates for cars equipped with the latest HW3.0 computers. Now it has been added in Canada for cars without HW3.0.

“Your car may warn you in some cases if it detects that you are about to run a stop sign or stop light while Autosteer is in use. This is not a substitute for an attentive driver and will not stop the car,” read the release notes according to TeslaScope.

Text Messaging Improvements

The enhancement is for all owners, and improves how text messages are handled on the in-car display. Previously a series of messages would should up individually, but now the interface has been updated to mimic how they would display on a smart phone.

Sentry Mode Improvements

This update only gets a small mention, but will be a welcomed addition for when you need it. If your car triggers a “panic event” (i.e., alarm is set off), Sentry Mode footage will be saved to the onboard memory, and not your USB drive. You can then save it to a USB device by plugging one in, launching the Dashcam Viewer, and tapping the save icon on the bottom corner of the screen.

Unlatching Charge Cable

Exclusive for Model S/X owners, you can now press the small black button to the left of the charge port inlet to unlatch the charge cable when your car is unlocked. This may be particularly useful when charging with charge cables that do not have a release button on the connector handle.

TRAX v0.2

If you’re a frequent TRAX user, Tesla has updated the design of the interface and added new instruments and tools.

“TRAX is now redesigned to help you create audio masterpieces with just a few taps. Quickly preview and mix sounds with a new drum machine and instrument selector, or use new tools and volume controls to reorder, loop and mix tracks,” read the release notes.

Navigation Improvements, Dynamic Brake Lights & Music Improvements

These improvements are limited to owners in China. Here are the full release notes for these features via Teslascope.

You can read the rest of the official release notes here. Let us know in the comments below if you’ve received this latest update.