Tesla Full Self-Driving Investigation: Traffic Safety Concerns

NHTSA Investigates Tesla’s Full Self-Driving System

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a formal investigation concerning Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology. This action follows the receipt of numerous reports detailing instances where the system allegedly caused vehicles to disregard traffic signals or improperly navigate lanes.

Reports of System Malfunctions

More than 50 reports detailing these types of violations have been documented, with four resulting in reported injuries. This probe represents a focused examination of Tesla’s FSD driver assistance software, marking it as a distinct investigation.

Previously, in October 2024, NHTSA commenced an investigation into FSD following reports of accidents occurring in conditions of reduced visibility.

Prior Investigations and Ongoing Concerns

An earlier investigation into Tesla’s Autopilot system, a less advanced feature, was concluded in April 2024. This conclusion followed the identification of 13 fatal crashes linked to the misuse of that particular software.

However, a separate inquiry into the effectiveness of the corrective measures Tesla implemented for Autopilot remains active.

Timing of the Investigation

The launch of this new investigation coincided with Tesla’s release of the latest iteration of its software. CEO Elon Musk has extensively promoted this updated version in recent months.

This new software version is designed to integrate training data gathered during Tesla’s limited robotaxi pilot program, which is currently being conducted in Austin, Texas.

Specific Allegations

According to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), at least 18 complaints and one media report have been received, alleging that Tesla’s FSD software failed to bring vehicles to a stop or maintain a stopped position at red lights.

Furthermore, ODI identified six reports submitted by Tesla under the agency’s Standing General Order for Crash Reporting (SGO). This order mandates companies to provide information regarding crashes involving vehicles with autonomous or partially autonomous capabilities.

Repeatable Issues and Tesla’s Response

ODI collaborated with Maryland’s Transportation Authority and State Police to assess the repeatability of some reported red light violations. These incidents were concentrated at a single intersection in Joppa, Maryland.

NHTSA reports that Tesla has already “taken action to address the issue at this intersection.”

Lane Navigation Concerns

ODI also identified 18 complaints, two media reports, and two SGO reports detailing instances where FSD caused vehicles to enter opposing lanes of traffic during or after turns.

Reports also included instances of crossing double-yellow lane markings while traveling straight, and attempts to turn onto roadways in the wrong direction, despite the presence of clearly visible wrong-way signage.

Intersection Navigation Failures

Six complaints, one media report, and four SGO reports detailed situations where a Tesla vehicle equipped with FSD proceeded straight through an intersection from a turn lane, or initiated a turn from a through lane.

ODI noted that in some reported cases, FSD executed lane changes into opposing traffic lanes with minimal warning to the driver, or insufficient opportunity for intervention.

Preliminary Evaluation and Potential Recall

ODI has initiated a “Preliminary Evaluation,” representing an initial step toward potentially requiring a recall. The agency typically aims to finalize these evaluations within eight months.

However, the possibility of a federal government shutdown could potentially impact this timeline.

Staffing Concerns

Earlier this year, Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency reportedly implemented significant cuts to NHTSA’s vehicle automation safety staff.