CVE-2019-13581
📋 TL;DR
A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in Marvell 88W8688 Wi-Fi firmware allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service via malformed Wi-Fi packets. This affects Tesla Model S/X vehicles manufactured before March 2018 using the Parrot Faurecia Automotive FC6050W module. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable without authentication.
💻 Affected Systems
- Tesla Model S
- Tesla Model X
- Parrot Faurecia Automotive FC6050W module
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Remote code execution allowing complete compromise of vehicle's Wi-Fi module, potentially enabling lateral movement to other vehicle systems or disabling critical functions.
Likely Case
Denial of service causing Wi-Fi connectivity loss, potentially affecting vehicle software updates and infotainment features.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if vehicles are updated to patched firmware before exploitation attempts occur.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation demonstrated by Tencent Keen Security Lab with detailed technical analysis published. Requires proximity to vehicle Wi-Fi signal.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Marvell 88W8688 firmware version p52 or later
Vendor Advisory: https://www.marvell.com/documents/ioaj5dntk2ubykssa78s/
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Contact Tesla service center for firmware update. 2. Schedule vehicle service appointment. 3. Technician will update Wi-Fi module firmware to patched version. 4. Verify update completion through vehicle diagnostics.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable Wi-Fi connectivity
tesla_vehicle_uiTurn off vehicle Wi-Fi to prevent remote exploitation attempts
Navigate to vehicle touchscreen > Settings > Wi-Fi > Toggle OFF
Limit Wi-Fi usage to trusted networks
tesla_vehicle_uiOnly connect to known, secure Wi-Fi networks and disable automatic connection
Navigate to vehicle touchscreen > Settings > Wi-Fi > Manage Networks > Remove unknown networks
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Park vehicles in secure locations away from public Wi-Fi access
- Disable Wi-Fi completely until firmware can be updated
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check vehicle manufacturing date (must be before March 2018) and current firmware version through Tesla service diagnosticsCheck Version:
Requires Tesla diagnostic equipment - not accessible to end usersVerify Fix Applied:
Confirm Wi-Fi firmware version is p52 or later through Tesla service center diagnostic tools📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual Wi-Fi module crashes or restarts
- Multiple malformed packet rejections in Wi-Fi logs
Network Indicators:
- Suspicious Wi-Fi probe requests near vehicles
- Unusual broadcast traffic targeting vehicle MAC addresses
SIEM Query:
source="vehicle_wifi_logs" AND (event_type="buffer_overflow" OR event_type="module_crash")