CVE-2025-6785 is a medium-severity vulnerability affecting Tesla Model 3 vehicles running software versions from early 2023 up to before version 2023.44. The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of special elements in output used by a downstream component, classified under CWE-74 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component) and CWE-1263. Specifically, the issue relates to the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus interface, which is accessible externally via CAN wires. If an attacker gains physical access to these CAN wires, they can inject specially crafted CAN messages. This injection can manipulate vehicle functions, notably enabling unauthorized control over the remote start feature of the Tesla Model 3. The vulnerability was identified and tested on vehicles with software version v11.1 (2023.20.9 ee6de92ddac5). The CVSS 4.0 base score is 4.7, reflecting a medium severity level, with the attack vector being physical (AV:P), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges or user interaction required, but with high scope and impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability highlights a security gap in the physical security and message validation mechanisms of the CAN bus system in affected Tesla Model 3 vehicles, potentially allowing attackers with physical access to bypass normal security controls and manipulate vehicle behavior via CAN message injection.

For European organizations, especially those operating fleets of Tesla Model 3 vehicles or providing related automotive services, this vulnerability poses a tangible risk. Physical access to the CAN bus could be exploited by malicious insiders, thieves, or attackers with physical proximity to vehicles, enabling unauthorized remote start and potentially other vehicle control functions. This could lead to theft, unauthorized use, or disruption of vehicle availability. The impact extends to organizations relying on Tesla Model 3 vehicles for critical operations, such as logistics, ride-sharing, or corporate transport, where vehicle misuse or downtime could cause operational and financial damage. Additionally, the vulnerability could undermine consumer trust in Tesla vehicles' security within Europe, affecting brand reputation. Given the high market penetration of Tesla vehicles in countries like Germany, Norway, and the Netherlands, the risk is more pronounced. Moreover, the physical nature of the attack vector means that organizations with less secure parking or storage facilities are at higher risk. While remote exploitation is not feasible without physical access, the potential for targeted attacks in high-value or sensitive environments remains a concern.

To mitigate this vulnerability effectively, European organizations should implement a multi-layered approach: 1) Enhance physical security controls around Tesla Model 3 vehicles, including secure parking areas with restricted access, surveillance, and tamper-evident seals on CAN bus access points to prevent unauthorized physical connection. 2) Tesla owners and fleet operators should promptly update vehicle software to versions 2023.44 or later once Tesla releases patches addressing this vulnerability. 3) Employ CAN bus message monitoring tools capable of detecting anomalous or unauthorized message injections, potentially integrating with vehicle telematics systems to alert on suspicious activity. 4) Educate vehicle users and maintenance personnel about the risks of physical CAN bus access and encourage reporting of any suspicious physical tampering. 5) Collaborate with Tesla service centers to verify vehicle integrity and ensure that any physical access points are secured during maintenance. 6) For organizations managing large fleets, consider implementing additional hardware-based CAN bus security modules that enforce message authentication and integrity checks, reducing the risk of injection attacks even if physical access is obtained. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on physical security enhancements, proactive monitoring, and leveraging vendor updates.