Since May 2021, Tesla has recalled nearly 54,000 of its vehicles due to an error in the self-driving software. The error in the software let vehicles roll through stop signs without coming to a complete stop.
Tesla’s Software Update in October 2020:
In October 2020, Tesla vehicles were equipped with a new software update. The software update allowed the driver to pick between three modes while using the vehicle’s Full Self-Driving feature (FSD). The options include:
- Chill Profile
- Average Profile
- Assertive Profile
If the driver selected the “Assertive” mode, the vehicle would roll through intersections with stop signs at up to 6 miles per hour. As long as there were no moving vehicles or pedestrians detected by the vehicle, the Tesla would run the stop sign. This prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to order Tesla to disable the feature.
What Was the Issue with Tesla’s Software?
Tesla selects drivers to be a part of their beta testing. Tesla introduced the “rolling stop” feature in October 2020, which did not comply with traffic laws. NHTSA stated that failing to fully stop at a stop sign increases the risk of an accident, regardless of whether or not the intersection is empty.
In January 2021, NHTSA met with Tesla to discuss the software. Following the meeting, Tesla agreed to disable the software update.
What Tesla Models Were Affected?
After meetings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Tesla agreed to recall the vehicles that were affected by the software rollout. The models that were subject to recall were:
- Tesla Model S Sedans from 2016 to 2022
- Tesla Model X SUVs from 2016 to 2022
- Tesla Model 3 Sedans from 2017 to 2022
- Tesla Model Y SUVs from 2020 to 2022
Have There Been Other Issues with Tesla’s Software?
This is not the first time Tesla has been investigated by safety officials. In November 2020, a Tesla driver filed a complaint regarding the Full Self-Driving software, which caused a crash. The driver stated that the Model Y drove into the wrong lane and was hit by another car.
A month later, the company was being investigated by NHTSA because Tesla vehicles allowed drivers to play video games while in motion. Tesla is currently being investigated due to complaints that Tesla vehicles have been frequently crashing into emergency vehicles parked on the road.
The NHTSA is continuing to investigate other Tesla Autopilot incidents and malfunctions. If you or someone you know has been injured by a Tesla in Arizona, an Arizona attorney may be able to help.
Work Cited
- Krisher, T. (2022, February 1). Tesla issues recall after full self-driving software allows cars to run stop signs. Los Angeles Times. Retrieved February 8, 2022, from https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2022-02-01/tesla-recall-self-driving-software-runs-stop-signs
- The Associated Press & Scripps National. (2022, February 1). Tesla issues recall after self-driving software allowed cars to roll through stop signs. KMGH. Retrieved February 8, 2022, from https://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/national/tesla-issues-recall-after-self-driving-software-allowed-cars-to-roll-through-stop-signs