If you own a Tesla with the Full Self-Driving (FSD) option, you know that having clean cameras is essential for the system to work. But when the weather won’t cooperate and the cameras are constantly being bombarded by dirt, dust, and debris, it can be hard to keep them clean.
Don’t worry, though! In this blog post, we’ll show you how to clean your FSD cameras even when the weather isn’t on your side. We’ll provide tips and tricks that you can use to keep your FSD cameras in tip-top shape, even in the toughest of conditions.
The problem with a dirty FSD camera
Having a dirty FSD camera can be a real problem for the safety of yourself and your Tesla. It is responsible for important functions such as the Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities. When your camera gets too dirty, these features can become compromised and could even lead to an accident.
This is why it is so important to keep your cameras clean and free from dirt, dust, and debris. The issue becomes even worse when the weather doesn’t cooperate and dirt builds up faster on the camera lens.
Why the weather matters
The weather can have a major impact on the cleanliness of your FSD camera. Rain, snow, and other inclement weather can all cause dirt, dust, and debris to build up on the camera lens.
This can not only affect the quality of the images produced but can also cause problems with the FSD system, making it difficult for your car to accurately detect its surroundings.
Additionally, extreme temperatures can cause condensation to form inside the camera, leading to further image distortion. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of the weather conditions when you are caring for your FSD camera.
Some solutions to keeping your camera clean
One of the best ways to keep your FSD cameras clean is to have a good car wash routine. Regularly washing the exterior of your car helps to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on the camera lens, which can cause the camera to malfunction.
To keep your FSD camera in tip-top shape, use a gentle, 7-pH soap and water solution and a microfiber cloth to clean off any dirt or debris. Take care not to rub the lens (if at all) too hard, as you don’t want to scratch it. You should also make sure to thoroughly dry the camera after washing.
What to do if your camera is already dirty
It can be frustrating if your FSD cameras are already dirty and you’re unsure of how to clean them. Fortunately, there are some easy steps that can help you get your camera back in working order.
Start by spraying down your cameras with a spray bottle or pressure washer. Again, try as hard as possible to resist touching the lenses. It is best if the debris on them comes off with the water instead of wiping it off. If your cameras are still dirty after rinsing them down, you can try to spray them with a foam cannon as well. Chemical guys Honey Dew foam spray is great for loosening stubborn debris. If that fails, and your cameras are still dirty, it might be time to explore a Tesla Car wash service, like WashMyT.