The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into Tesla's Full Self-Driving system after receiving dozens of complaints about traffic violations. The probe covers 2.88 million vehicles and follows reports of 14 crashes and 23 injuries linked to the feature. This marks the third such inquiry into Tesla this year.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initiated its investigation into Tesla's 'Full Self-Driving' (FSD) feature on October 11, 2025, focusing on 2.88 million vehicles equipped with the system. Regulators cited 58 complaints detailing instances where FSD-equipped Teslas ignored red and green lights, veered into oncoming traffic during lane changes, and used incorrect lanes for turns or straight travel. These reports led to 14 crashes and 23 injuries, with over 50 incidents involving violations of traffic laws.
At least 18 drivers reported vehicles ignoring red traffic lights, often without warning, while another 24 described FSD crossing into oncoming traffic, driving straight in turning lanes, or turning from the wrong lane. The probe also examines why Tesla may not have reported these crashes, as required for incidents involving partially automated systems.
This is NHTSA's third investigation into Tesla in 2025. Earlier this year, the agency reviewed the 'summon' parking feature after minor parking lot crashes. Just weeks ago, it probed faulty electronic door handles linked to multiple deaths, including a fatal incident involving three Piedmont teens trapped in a burning car. Last year, NHTSA investigated FSD crashes in low-visibility conditions like fog, one resulting in a pedestrian's death.
Tesla added the 'Supervised' suffix to FSD in 2024 amid criticism that names like 'Full Self-Driving' and 'Autopilot' imply full autonomy without intervention. CEO Elon Musk has repeatedly boasted about the technology's capabilities, predicting cross-country self-driving soon, though a 2024 study found FSD required 75 human interventions per 1,000 miles—one every 13 miles.
The announcement contributed to Tesla's stock declining 8.77% over the past week, amid mixed investor sentiment despite sales rebounds in China and Europe and new affordable Model 3 and Y variants. Analysts maintain a Hold rating, with upcoming third-quarter earnings under scrutiny.