Tesla’s Autopilot: A Tale of Software Updates, Flaws and Repair Recalls

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into the safety of Tesla’s Autopilot driver assistance system. The agency announced the start of the investigation on Friday, citing concerns about accidents that occurred after a software update was installed on vehicles called for maintenance. Preliminary test results also raised further concerns.

The investigation concluded a three-year probe into Tesla’s driver assistance system, revealing security flaws. Despite software updates made by Tesla to address some of the NHTSA’s concerns, the agency remains cautious. The repair recall investigation covers various Tesla models equipped with a driver assistance system, including the Cybertruck, manufactured between 2012 and 2024.

NHTSA began investigating Tesla’s driver assistance system in August 2021, finding at least 13 accidents involving deaths or serious injuries linked to abuse of the system. There is concern that the Autopilot name could mislead drivers into over-relying on automation. Consumer Reports also highlighted safety issues with Tesla’s driver assistance system after testing the software update.

In response, Tesla called in over two million vehicles for maintenance in December, emphasizing the importance of driver attention to safety when using the driving assistant. The company’s biggest repair call to date aimed to raise awareness among drivers about safety. The investigation continues, with concerns about the potential risks associated with the Autopilot system.