2025-07-10

Event Data Recorder Retrieval

  • 2025-07-10: Added additional EDR retrieval methods.
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Warning
This procedure is a DRAFT. Although it has been validated, Warnings and Cautions might be missing. Follow safety requirements and use extreme caution when working on or near High Voltage systems and components. Provide corrections and feedback to ServiceDevelopment@teslamotors.com.
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Note
Refer to CD-18-20-003 for Model X Event Data Recorder (EDR) guide.
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Note

Special tools required for this procedure:

Part Number Description
— External 12V (24W) Power Source
— PCAN-USB Adapter
1094601 Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable
1131144 Tesla In-Vehicle EDR Retrieval Cable

Establish an In-Vehicle Connection

  1. Locate the storage pocket under the touchscreen.
  2. Push down on inside bottom corners of the storage pocket until the clips securing it release.
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    CAUTION
    The storage pocket clips might require a large amount of force to release and they might release suddenly. Do not place fingers between the bottom of the pocket and the top of the center console.
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    Note
    It may be necessary to remove an after-market center console to allow the removal of the storage pocket.
  3. Remove the storage pocket by pulling it towards the rear of the vehicle.
  4. Locate the rectangular vehicle communication harness under the touchscreen, gently pull it toward you.
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    Note
    Depending on vehicle build date, this connector may be blue or white.
  5. Connect the appropriate In-Vehicle EDR Retrieval Cable.
  6. Connect the other end of the In-Vehicle EDR Retrieval Cable to the PCAN-USB adapter.
  7. Connect the PCAN-USB adapter to the computer used for retrieval.
  8. Place the key-fob inside of the vehicle and press the brake pedal, which should result in the instrument cluster turning on.

Establish a Direct-to-Module Connection

If the In-Vehicle Connection procedure is unsuccessful, you might be able to connect to the Restraint Control Module (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:

RCM Direct Connection (Installed on the Vehicle)

To connect to the RCM while it is still installed on the vehicle, perform the following steps:

  1. Remove the center console assembly. See .
  2. Remove the front HVAC outlet duct.
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    Warning
    Make sure LV is disconnected before continuing to the next step.
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    Note
    Components have been removed in this graphic to aid clarity.
  3. Disconnect the harness connectors (x2) from the restraint control module (RCM).
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    Note
    Components have been removed in this graphic to aid clarity.
  4. Connect the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable to the RCM.
  5. Connect the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable to the PCAN-USB adapter.
  6. Connect the PCAN-USB adapter to the computer used for data retrieval.
  7. Connect 12V power to the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable.
  8. Skip to the “Retrieve Data” section to complete the data retrieval procedure.

RCM Direct Connection (Removed from the Vehicle)

To remove the RCM from the vehicle, and make a direct connection, perform the following steps:

  1. Remove the RCM from the vehicle, and then place the module on a stable surface. See Module - Restraint Control - RCM (Remove and Replace).
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    Note
    Secure the RCM so that it cannot move once powered on.
  2. Connect the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable connectors (x2) to the RCM.
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    Note
    Make sure both connectors are fully seated.
  3. Connect the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable to the PCAN-USB adapter.
  4. Connect the PCAN-USB adapter to the computer used for data retrieval.
  5. Connect 12V power to the Tesla Direct-To-Module EDR Retrieval Cable.
  6. Skip to the “Retrieve Data” section 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.

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Warning
Follow all manufacturer’s instructions for safe use of the external 12V power source.
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Note
This procedure requires an external source of 12V power.
  1. Open the front hood by using one of the following methods:
    • The touchscreen: touch Controls > Front Trunk.
    • The key fob: double click the front trunk button on the key fob.
    • The manual release straps (only needed if the vehicle does not have 12V power):
      1. Locate the tow eye cover, insert a small, flat screwdriver into the top and bottom slots, and then release the snaps and pull the cover towards you.
      2. Once the tow eye cover has been removed, the latch release straps are accessible. These straps are labeled A for the primary latch and B for the secondary latch. Pull strap A to open the primary latch, then strap B to open the secondary latch.
  2. 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.
  3. Disconnect the first responder loop harness.
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    Warning
    Wait at least 2 minutes for all electrical circuits to fully discharge.
    Figure 1. First responder loop for a Model S manufactured after April 10, 2016 shown; First responder loop for vehicles manufactured before April 10, 2016 is similar
  4. Connect the negative terminal of the external 12V power source to the vehicle chassis.
  5. Connect the positive terminal of the 12V source to pin 3 of the first responder harness. See diagrams below to identify pin 3.
  6. Proceed to the “Retrieve Data” section to complete the data retrieval procedure.

Retrieve Data

  1. Open the Tesla EDR Retrieval Program. The program automatically attempts to connect to the RCM.
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    Note
    When connected properly, a green circle and the message “Connected to RCM” displays on the bottom left corner of the window.
    • 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 the "Establish a Direct-to-Module Connection" section.
  2. Once connected to the EDR, click “Run EDR Retrieval” and follow the on-screen prompts to retrieve and save EDR data.
  3. The retrieved *.edr data file can be used to generate a Tesla EDR Report at https://edr.tesla.com/.
  4. Select "X" at the top right of the window to close the Tesla EDR program once complete.