Lots of folks are facing the issue as Tesla cannot obtain an IP address and showing an error message on the screen. And I know, you are also one of those.
Well, you can get this error message when there’s an issue with the software. Also, it can occur due to using one SSID for 2.4 and 5 GHz bands or the car’s computer is broken. To fix it, just update the software, use separate SSIDs for each band, and change the computer.
In this guide, I’ll explain the exact reasons why your Tesla is unable to obtain an IP address and show the quick solutions that work. Let’s Get into It!
How to Fix Tesla’s Unable to Obtain IP Address?
There are plenty of reasons why your car’s screen shows the error message unable to obtain an IP address from DHCP server Tesla. In case you don’t know, here are the root causes and their solutions:
Cause #1: Software Bug
Due to a software glitch or mismatch with the current car’s system, the screen may show an error message. It usually occurs when you are trying to connect to Wi-Fi manually. In that case, you should update the software on your mobile app and car.
How to Fix?
In the car’s screen, connect your phone’s hotspot with the Tesla. Then, go to Controls > Software and check for the latest update. If it doesn’t show anything, then contact the Tesla service center and tell them to push an update after addressing the issue.
Then, wait for the new software. Once you get the update alert with the orange clock icon at the top-right section, hit on it or click on Controls > Software > Software Update and let it download fully.
After that, open your mobile app on your iOS or Android device. In case the Tesla App not connecting to your car, then fix it first by checking this guide before updating.
Coming back to the main point, go to Software Update > Install or Yes option and let it download fully. Then, test it out.
You can fix this bug temporarily by resetting the car using the two scroll buttons for 10 seconds. For a better result, do it a couple of times per 4 days!
Cause #2: 2.4 and 5 GHz Interference in SSID
If you use the same SSID for both 2.4 and 5 GHz bandwidths, it can confuse the car’s system to detect the network. To resolve it, you should add separate SSIDs for each bandwidth or add a guest SSID on 2.4GHz and change it to B/G Mode.
How to Fix?
If you want to add separate SSIDs for each bandwidth on the router, then go to the Home Network via the IP address (like http://192.168.1.254 for AT&T Wi-Fi router). Then, go to the Wi-Fi page > Advanced Options in the upper left section of the page.
After that, select the 5GHz or 2GHz section and change the Network Name (SSID) to something new (different than the previous one). Next, ignore the warnings that will pop on the screen. Then, scroll down and click on the Save option.
However, if you want to make a guest SSID on 2Ghz, then go to Home Network > Wi-Fi page > locate the Guest Network and enable it.
After that, change the Mode (below the Wi-Fi Operation option) to B/G under the 2.4GHZ Wi-Fi Configuration section.
For different Wi-Fi routers, the procedure will be a little different but technically you’ll need to reach the Network Name and change it or turn on the Guest Network. After that, change the Mode to B/G.
Cause #3: Hardware Fault
In rare cases, the computer can go bad and cause the issue of being unable to obtain the IP address on the screen. If this happens, the car will fail to connect home network or cellular hotspot. You can fix it by changing the computer via the Tesla Service Center.
How to Fix?
To change the computer assembly that holds the LTE/Wi-Fi module of the Tesla car, you’ll need expert help. It’s because the procedure requires high-end gear. Plus, if you are not a skilled technician, you can break the plastic trim in the cabin area.
So, be sure to contact the service center to replace the computer after diagnosing and testing the issue under warranty service. It may cost around $1,000 or more if done without warranty service from the service center.
Wrapping Up
The issue of Tesla being unable to obtain an IP address can be fixed by trying the above solutions. In the worst case, you’ll need to change the computer assembly that is fitted on the car via the service center.
Hope this guide helps you to understand the reason behind this issue and how to fix it. And, I’ll catch you in the next guide soon!
If your mobile app showing a 540 server error, then take a look at this guide that gives the ideal solutions to your problem. Enjoy Reading!
