Tesla Holiday Update brings one-tap car wash mode

Tesla’s 2025 Holiday Update (version 2025.44.25.1) has begun rolling out to the fleet, bringing headline-grabbing features like an updated Santa Mode, Grok navigation commands, and a new “Photobooth” app. However, early adopters have discovered an undocumented “quality of life” improvement that might be the most practical addition of the entire release.

Owners running the 2025 Holiday Update report a fresh on-screen message when the car pulls into a recognized car wash site. The message reads: “Getting a Wash? Try Car Wash Mode”.​

This prompt appears as a pop-up on the center display and gives a direct shortcut to Car Wash Mode, so drivers no longer need to dig through menus while they wait in line. In many busy locations, that extra speed can lower stress for both the driver and the car wash staff.​

Car Wash Mode has become important for Tesla owners who use automatic tunnel washes. Drivers often must roll into a conveyor system, close all windows, switch off wipers, and place the vehicle into Free Roll in a short time.​

Under pressure, some drivers have struggled to find Car Wash Mode or Free Roll in the Service menu before the belt starts moving. This new pop-up appears exactly when a driver is likely to need it, so the main control is only one tap away.​​

Updated car wash mode layout

The Holiday Update does more than add a pop-up. The Car Wash Mode interface itself has been refreshed, with a clearer layout that separates the vehicle visualization and the status checklist.​

The “Enable Free Roll” button has a more prominent place, so drivers can find neutral mode faster when entering an automatic wash. At the same time, the system keeps the existing protections, such as warnings for open windows and other items that could cause trouble during a wash.​

This quiet usability update arrives inside a larger 2025 Holiday Update that brings several widely promoted features. Owners report an updated Santa Mode visual package, which now includes extra holiday graphics such as snowmen, trees, and an Optimus robot acting as Santa on the driving visualizations.​​

The release also adds Grok-based navigation voice controls, so drivers can ask the in-car assistant to set or change destinations in a more natural way. Many vehicles also gain access to a new “Photobooth” Toybox app that uses the interior camera for quick selfies with basic overlays.

Extra features in the 2025.44.25 line

Beyond entertainment, the update brings practical features that tie into daily use. Dog Mode gains a Live Activity on supported smartphones, so owners can view cabin status and a live camera feed from the lock screen while a pet waits in the car.​

Drivers heading to Superchargers now get a more detailed on-screen layout of some sites, with a bird’s-eye view to help them pick a stall and understand the site before they turn in. The 2025.44.25.1 build is rolling out first to many vehicles with AMD Ryzen hardware, and wider distribution is expected as the holiday period continues.

You may also like to read:

• Tesla extends battery and drive unit warranty by two years »
• Tesla rolls out 2025 holiday software update »
• Tesla streamlines car wash mode with cleaner interface »