Model S (2021+) EDR Data Retrieval Guide (CD-23-20-001)
Publication date: 2023-12-01Reference number: CD-23-20-001
MODEL S (2021+) EDR DATA RETRIEVAL GUIDE
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
| TESLA: | Model S (2021+) |
INTRODUCTION
The Tesla Model S (2021+) is equipped with an event data recorder (EDR). The EDR records data related to vehicle dynamics and safety systems when the system senses a crash or a crash-like situation, such as hitting a road obstacle. This data is stored in the vehicle's Restraints Control Module (RCM).
This guide describes how to retrieve EDR data from the RCM of a Tesla Model S (2021+).
This guide and other Tesla EDR information can be found at https://edr.tesla.com .
There are two methods for connecting to the RCM:
- In-vehicle connection, which allows you to connect to the RCM without removing it from the vehicle. An in-vehicle connection may not be possible if the vehicle has extensive damage. If an in-vehicle connection can be established, data is retrieved with less vehicle disassembly than when using a direct-to-module connection. For more information about in-vehicle retrieval, refer to "Establish an In-Vehicle Connection," below.
- Direct-to-module connection, which requires that you physically remove the RCM from the vehicle, then connect to it and retrieve the data. Refer to the "Direct-to-module connection" section of Table 1. EDR Data Retrieval Cable requirements for more information about the required cable. For more information about direct-to-module retrieval, refer to "Establish a Direct-to-Module Connection," below.
TOOLS REQUIRED
To retrieve the data from the RCM, you will need the following special tools:
- PCAN-USB Adapter
- A Windows computer running the Tesla EDR Retrieval Program, which you can download at https://edr.tesla.com/download
- An appropriate data retrieval cable:
| Retrieval Method | Required Cable | |
|---|---|---|
| In-vehicle connection | Tesla In-Vehicle EDR Retrieval Cable. Tesla part number 1131144 | |
| Direct-to-module connection | Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable. Tesla part number 1492139. |
Required cables and software are available at https://edr.tesla.com .
ESTABLISH AN IN-VEHICLE CONNECTION
- Release the phone dock.NOTE: Release 4x clips and 2x datums, then pull up at the bottom and swing the phone dock out from under the instrument panel.
- Remove the phone dock connectors (1x clip and 3x connectors).NOTE: Carefully release the connector lock before pulling the connector straight out of the socket to avoid damage.
- Release the IP service panel (4x tabs and 2 datums).
- Release the diagnostic and CAN harnesses from the IP service panel (2x clips).
- Connect the appropriate In-Vehicle EDR Retrieval Cable (refer to "Table 1. EDR Data Retrieval Cable requirements," on page 2 to find the required cable for your vehicle).
- Connect the other end of the In-Vehicle EDR Retrieval Cable to the PCAN-USB adapter.
- Connect the PCAN-USB adapter to the computer used for retrieval.
- Place the key-fob inside of the vehicle and press the brake pedal, which should result in the instrument cluster turning on.
- If successful, proceed to "Retrieve Data" below.
- If the instrument cluster does not turn on, perform the procedure described in "Using External Power for the RCM" below.
ESTABLISH A DIRECT-TO-MODULE CONNECTION
If the In-Vehicle Connection procedure is unsuccessful, you might be able to connect to the RCM directly, and establish a direct-to-module connection. The RCM is located forward of the center console, below the instrument panel and center screen.
The RCM can be left in the vehicle, but if necessary it can be removed from the vehicle:
- For information on making a direct connection with the RCM while it is still in the Model S, see "RCM Direct Connection (RCM In Vehicle)," below.
- For information on making a direct connection with the RCM after it has been removed from the Model S, see "RCM Direct Connection (RCM Removed From Vehicle)," below.
RCM Direct Connection (RCM In Vehicle)
To connect to the RCM while it is still in the Model S:
- Move the LH seat fully to the rear.
- Open the front trunk using the center display (Controls > Frunk Trunk ).
- Power off vehicle using center display (Controls > Safety & Security > Power Off ).
- Remove the underhood apron (8x clips).
- Disconnect the 12V battery connector (1) and the First Responder Loop (2).
- Remove the LH footwell cover (1x clip and 2x magnets).
- Remove the LH console side carpet (11x clips).
- Release the LH toeboard bracket from the body (2x 10 mm bolts).
- Release the LH toeboard bracket from the center console (1x 10 mm bolt).
- Release the LH toeboard bracket from the IP carrier (1x 13 mm bolt).
- Remove the LH toeboard bracket from the vehicle by lifting the body side of the bracket out of the slotted receptacle.
- Disconnect the RCM harness connectors (x2) by pressing the lock tab in while pivoting the retention latch toward the LH side of the vehicle. (When an audible click is heard, the catch release is fully disengaged.).
- Connect the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable to the RCM.
- Connect the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable to the PCAN-USB adapter.
- Connect the PCAN-USB adapter to the computer used for data retrieval.
- Connect 12V power to the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable.
- Proceed to "Retrieve Data" on page 22 to complete the data retrieval procedure.
RCM Direct Connection (RCM Removed From Vehicle)
To remove the RCM from the Model S, and make a direct connection, complete the following steps:
- Move the LH seat fully to the rear.
- Open the front trunk using the center display (Controls > Frunk Trunk ).
- Power off vehicle using center display (Controls > Safety & Security > Power Off ).
- Remove the underhood apron (8x clips).
- Disconnect the 12V battery connector (1) and the First Responder Loop (2).
- Remove the LH footwell cover (1x clip and 2x magnets).
- Remove the LH console side carpet (11x clips).
- Release the LH toeboard bracket from the body (2x 10 mm bolts).
- Release the LH toeboard bracket from the center console (1x 10 mm bolt).
- Release the LH toeboard bracket from the IP carrier (1x 13 mm bolt).
- Remove the LH toeboard bracket from the vehicle by lifting the body side of the bracket out of the slotted receptacle.
- Disconnect the RCM harness connectors (x2) by pressing the lock tab in while pivoting the retention latch toward the LH side of the vehicle. (When an audible click is heard, the catch release is fully disengaged.).
- Remove the 10 mm bolts (x3) that secure the passive safety restraint control module (RCM) to the body.
- Remove the RCM from the Model S and place it on a stable surface.
- Connect the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable to the RCM.
Attach both EDR Retrieval Cable connectors to the RCM (Figure 41). Make sure both connectors are fully seated.
- Connect the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable to the PCAN-USB adapter.
- Connect the PCAN-USB adapter to the computer used for data retrieval.
- Connect 12V power to the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable.
- Proceed to "Retrieve Data" on page 22 to complete the data retrieval procedure.
USING EXTERNAL POWER FOR THE RCM
Externally powering the RCM refers to applying power to the RCM via the vehicle's "first responder's loop," located in the front trunk. This procedure can be used if a key-fob is not available, 12V DC power is not available to the vehicle system, or the vehicle is otherwise unable to turn on.
- Open the front hood by using one of the following methods:
- Remove the first responder loop access panel by pulling its rear edge upward to release the five clips that hold it in place. Maneuver the access panel toward the windshield to remove it from the vehicle.
- Disconnect the first responder loop harness.WARNING: Wait at least 2 minutes for all electrical circuits to fully discharge.
- Connect the negative terminal of the external 12V power source to the vehicle chassis.
- Connect the positive terminal of the 12V source to pin 3 of the first responder harness.
- Proceed to the "Retrieve Data" section of this document to complete data retrieval.
RETRIEVE DATA
- Open the Tesla EDR Retrieval Program. The program automatically attempts to connect to the RCM.
- When connected properly, a green circle and the message "Connected to RCM" displays on the bottom left corner of the window (see Figure 51. EDR program successful connection).
- If the Tesla EDR Retrieval Program is not communicating with the PCAN-USB adapter, a message displays "Not Connected to PCAN."
Check the connection to the PCAN-USB adapter.
- If the Tesla EDR Retrieval Program is communicating with the PCAN-USB adapter, but is not communicating with the RCM, a message displays "Not Connected to RCM."
Check the connection to the vehicle harness and the vehicle power. If a successful connection through the vehicle communication system cannot be achieved, connect to the RCM using the procedure described in "Establish a Direct-to-Module Connection" on page 6.
- When connected properly, a green circle and the message "Connected to RCM" displays on the bottom left corner of the window (see Figure 51. EDR program successful connection).
- Once connected to the EDR, click "Run EDR Retrieval" and follow the on-screen prompts to retrieve and save EDR data.
The retrieved *.edr data file can be used to generate a Tesla EDR Report at https://edr.tesla.com .
FOR FURTHER ASSISTANCE
For technical support, please contact the exclusive Tesla EDR hardware distributor, Crash Data Group:
Email: crash@crashdatagroup.com
Phone: (951) 252-9254
Toll Free: (800) 280-7940