Running Tesla Model 3's computer on my desk using parts from crashed cars (bugs.xdavidhu.me)

Article summary

The author obtained Tesla Model 3 parts from crashed cars on eBay to run the car's computer on their desk. They needed a car computer, touchscreen, and display cable, and used Tesla's publicly available wiring diagrams to identify the necessary components. After some trial and error, including burning a power controller chip, they successfully booted the car's operating system and interacted with the exposed network interfaces. The project allowed them to explore the car's computer system and potentially attempt to extract the firmware.

Main themes

• Tesla hacking
• Automotive electronics
• Reverse engineering
• Voltage and power systems
• Regional terminology variations
• LVDS and display connections
• Automotive system design challenges

What commenters say

• The '12V' automotive system is a nominal reference and actual voltages can vary widely, with some systems operating at up to 14.4V or more.
• Some automotive systems, such as those with 'smart' alternators, can experience significant voltage fluctuations depending on driving conditions.
• A standard brake controller may work fine with the higher voltage in some vehicles, despite initial concerns about compatibility.
• The terminology for automotive wiring and tubing varies by region, with different terms used in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
• The use of LVDS cables is not unique to automotive applications, but is also found in other fields such as laptop display connections.
• The voltage requirements for automotive systems can be challenging to design for, with some systems requiring operation over a wide voltage range.
• The concept of a '12V' system is somewhat misleading, as actual voltages can be higher or lower depending on the specific application and conditions.
• Some vehicles may disconnect certain accessories while cranking to prioritize power delivery to the starter motor.