If your Tesla dashcam isn't working, there are several potential causes and troubleshooting steps to consider. 

1. Verify Camera and Hardware

Check Camera Location and Mounting:

Ensure the camera is properly mounted and positioned. Misalignment or improper mounting can cause issues with recording.

Inspect the USB Drive:

Ensure the USB drive is properly inserted into the car's USB port. It should be a high-quality USB drive with sufficient storage and write speed.

Try removing and reinserting the USB drive. Make sure it's securely connected.

Check USB Drive Format:

The USB drive must be formatted correctly. Tesla vehicles typically require the drive to be formatted to FAT32 or exFAT.

Reformat the drive if necessary, but note that this will erase all data on the drive.

Inspect the USB Drive for Errors:

Use a computer to check if the USB drive is functioning correctly. Run a disk check utility to scan for and repair any errors.

2. Tesla Dashcam Settings and Configuration

Check Dashcam Settings:

Go to the Tesla touchscreen and navigate to the Controls menu.

Select 'Safety & Security' and ensure that the Dashcam feature is enabled.

Verify Dashcam Icon:

Look for the Dashcam icon on the touchscreen. If it's greyed out or not present, there may be an issue with the system or settings.

Check for Software Updates:

Make sure your Tesla vehicle’s software is up to date. Tesla regularly releases updates that can fix bugs and improve functionality.

Navigate to the Software menu on the touchscreen to check for updates.

3. Troubleshooting Steps

Restart the Vehicle:

Sometimes, a simple restart of the vehicle can resolve temporary software glitches.

Hold down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the touchscreen restarts.

Reset the USB Drive:

Remove the USB drive and reformat it using a computer. Then, reinsert it into the car and check if the dashcam starts working.

Test with a Different USB Drive:

Try using a different USB drive to see if the problem is related to the drive itself.

Check for Obstructions:

Ensure there are no obstructions or dirt on the cameras. Clean the camera lenses if necessary.

4. Advanced Troubleshooting

Inspect Vehicle's Fuse:

Some electrical issues might be related to a blown fuse. Consult your vehicle's manual for the location of the fuse related to the dashcam and check if it's intact.

Check for System Errors:

Use the Tesla app or vehicle's diagnostic tools to check for any system errors or alerts related to the dashcam.

Contact Tesla Support:

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it may be necessary to contact Tesla support for further assistance. They can provide more detailed troubleshooting or schedule a service appointment if needed.

5. Preventative Measures

Regularly Update Software:

Keep your Tesla's software updated to ensure you have the latest fixes and improvements.

Maintain USB Drive Health:

Regularly back up and format your USB drive to prevent file system corruption.

Keep Cameras Clean:

Regularly clean the camera lenses to ensure clear recording and optimal performance.