US automobile safety regulators are investigating 2.88 million Tesla vehicles with full self-driving (FSD) technology due to several crashes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) claims the system has caused traffic safety violations.
Overview of NHTSA Investigation
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a federal investigation into Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, covering approximately 2.88 million vehicles equipped with FSD (Supervised and Beta versions). The inquiry follows reports alleging that Tesla’s FSD technology caused traffic law violations, including running red lights and driving against traffic during lane changes, resulting in several crashes and injuries.[1][2][3]
Reported Incidents and Complaints
- NHTSA has received 58 incident reports linked to Tesla vehicles operating with FSD engaged.
- Among these, there are 14 reported collisions and 23 reported injuries.
- Six reports specifically describe Teslas entering intersections on red signals and subsequently crashing, with four crashes resulting in injuries.[2][3][4]
- Additional complaints claim FSD failed to alert drivers of its intent or did not correctly detect and respond to traffic signals.[4][2]
- Some drivers reported Tesla vehicles moving through red lights or stopping improperly, and some crashes occurred due to lack of driver warnings about FSD behavior near traffic controls.[5][2]
System Description and Limitations
Tesla’s FSD is a Level 2 driver-assistance system that requires drivers to remain fully attentive and prepared to take over at any moment. Despite its name, the system does not enable full vehicle autonomy and still mandates human supervision at all times.[3][6][2]
Tesla’s official guidance states that the driver must keep hands on the wheel and be fully engaged in driving tasks while FSD is active. The company has released recent software updates intended to improve lane management, intersection behavior, and traffic signal recognition to reduce safety issues.[6][2]
Context of Investigation
This newest investigation builds upon earlier regulatory scrutiny. In late 2024, NHTSA began inquiries into 2.4 million Tesla vehicles after crashes occurred in low-visibility conditions such as fog, sun glare, and airborne dust. One incident in 2023 involved a fatality. Additionally, legal challenges have mounted against Tesla regarding driver assistance system safety, including trials resulting in damages awarded for accidents involving Autopilot, a related but distinct system from FSD.[7][8][5][4]
Investigation Scope and Possible Outcomes
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is examining whether Tesla provided adequate warnings, whether the system’s behavior allowed drivers sufficient reaction time, and how accurately the FSD system detects and responds to road signals, lane markings, and wrong-way signs.[9][1]
If the agency determines that Tesla’s FSD represents a significant safety risk, a recall of affected vehicles could be initiated. The investigation remains at the preliminary evaluation stage.[1][4]
