I did some looking around and didn’t see an example of a software update progressing through its various stages. I apologize if this is out there and I just missed it. My observation might be helpful for those buying a used Model S or X and the general idea depicted here applies to Model 3 as well. If you’ve had your Tesla for years and simply don’t want to sit through an update, it is still important to know a few basics about how it works (IMHO).
TMC posters have pointed out that cars with access to WiFi usually have access to the updates sooner than those on the cellular network exclusively.
Updates can be scheduled for a time when you know you won’t be driving. The car is not drivable when the update is in progress.
Read the release notes. Updates can change the way things look on displays as well as add features (easy entry, auto wipers) so it is a matter of safety to be sure each driver is aware of changes to the car made by an update.
Here are some pictures I took of the screens as update 2018.6.1 641efac progressed. It took about 30 minutes start to finish on my WiFi network. There were multiple whirring and clicking sounds during the update. My wipers also cycled, so be sure there are no covers or other obstructions on the vehicle.
As you might notice there were several notifications that popped up. A person might be concerned the update is not going well if they hadn’t seen these before. I’ve also read it is a good idea to do a vehicle reset after the software is complete to avoid certain anomalies.

No cause for alarm, just wait for the update to finish.

A soft reset can be done by simply turning the car “OFF” for five minutes using the interface screen on the parking brake menu. Start it back up after the elapsed time by pressing the brake pedal.
A deeper reset can be done by simultaneously pressing and holding both steering wheel mounted control wheels for 15 seconds, then the buttons above the wheels for 15 more seconds.

Please add your experiences so we can collectively add to the knowledge of this group and prepare the next generation of Tesla owners.
TMC posters have pointed out that cars with access to WiFi usually have access to the updates sooner than those on the cellular network exclusively.
Updates can be scheduled for a time when you know you won’t be driving. The car is not drivable when the update is in progress.
Read the release notes. Updates can change the way things look on displays as well as add features (easy entry, auto wipers) so it is a matter of safety to be sure each driver is aware of changes to the car made by an update.
Here are some pictures I took of the screens as update 2018.6.1 641efac progressed. It took about 30 minutes start to finish on my WiFi network. There were multiple whirring and clicking sounds during the update. My wipers also cycled, so be sure there are no covers or other obstructions on the vehicle.
As you might notice there were several notifications that popped up. A person might be concerned the update is not going well if they hadn’t seen these before. I’ve also read it is a good idea to do a vehicle reset after the software is complete to avoid certain anomalies.

No cause for alarm, just wait for the update to finish.

A soft reset can be done by simply turning the car “OFF” for five minutes using the interface screen on the parking brake menu. Start it back up after the elapsed time by pressing the brake pedal.
A deeper reset can be done by simultaneously pressing and holding both steering wheel mounted control wheels for 15 seconds, then the buttons above the wheels for 15 more seconds.

Please add your experiences so we can collectively add to the knowledge of this group and prepare the next generation of Tesla owners.
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