AUTO

Tesla Autopilot Recall is a Safety Update for 2 Million Vehicles

December 14, 2023

Tesla initiated a recall of over 2 million vehicles equipped with Autopilot due to safety concerns stemming from a federal investigation.
The recall specifically addresses issues related to Autopilot’s Autosteer feature and aims to prevent driver misuse of the system.
Tesla is providing a free over-the-air software update (version 2023.44.30) to enhance safety, increase visual alerts, simplify Autosteer usage, and add checks for proper use.

Tesla is voluntarily recalling more than 2 million vehicles with Autopilot due to safety worries after a federal investigation. In response to driver misuse, the recall specifically targets Autopilot’s Autosteer feature. Encompassed by this recall are all Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y vehicles with Autopilot.

This action follows an investigation into nearly a dozen accidents involving Autopilot use before colliding with stationary vehicles. To enhance safety, Tesla has voluntarily issued a free over-the-air software update (version 2023.44.30). This update not only increases visual alerts but also simplifies Autosteer use and introduces usage checks. Notably, Cybertruck and Full Self-Driving features are excluded from this recall.

The affected vehicles range from 2012-2023 Model S sedans to 2020-2023 Model Y SUVs. Owners can easily verify their recall status through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website using their vehicle’s VIN. The reference numbers for this recall are NHTSA 23V838000 and Tesla SB-23-00-008. Furthermore, Tesla’s customer service is readily available at 877-798-3752 for any inquiries.

_{A Tesla customer service representative responds to a question from someone attending the Electrify Expo.}

The Details

Affected Vehicles: This recall applies to you if you own a Model S sedan from 2012 to 2023, a Model X SUV from 2016 to 2023, a Model 3 sedan from 2017 to 2023, or a Model Y SUV from 2020 to 2023.
The Issue: The problem centers around Autosteer, which might not do enough to prevent misuse of the Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature.
The Solution: Tesla offers a free over-the-air software update, available since December 12, 2023. No need to visit a service center!
Recall Reference Numbers: For your reference, NHTSA’s campaign number is 23V838000, and Tesla’s identification for this recall is SB-23-00-008.
Checking for Recalls: To check if your vehicle is affected by this recall or others, visit NHTSA’s website and enter your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN). If no recalls are listed, your vehicle is not affected. However, it’s a good practice to check regularly since car manufacturers issue recalls periodically.

Tesla Autopilot Safety Measures: A Closer Look and the Solution

Tesla is taking action because a federal safety probe revealed that many drivers are using Autopilot the wrong way. This impacts all Model S, Model X, Model Y, and Model 3 cars with Autopilot. The bright side is that the solution involves a software update.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began checking Autopilot more than two years ago after 11 accidents where Tesla drivers had Autopilot engaged before hitting parked vehicles. They were particularly interested in Autopilot’s Autosteer feature, which keeps your car in the middle of its lane.

Enhancing Autosteer Safety: Tesla’s Software Update Solution

The investigation found that Autosteer didn’t do a good job of stopping drivers from using Autopilot in unsafe or unintended situations. While Tesla didn’t fully agree with the NHTSA’s findings, they still chose to recall the vehicles and offer a software update to fix the issues.

Tesla is rolling out a free over-the-air (OTA) software update with the version number 2023.44.30. This update aims to make Autosteer safer by increasing visual alerts, making it easier to engage and disengage, and adding checks for when you can use it. If drivers misuse Autosteer repeatedly, the new software will suspend their access to the feature.

Tesla is taking proactive steps to make Autopilot safer, and it’s as simple as a software update. If your vehicle is affected, don’t worry – Tesla’s got you covered with a free, over-the-air fix. Stay safe on the road, and remember to check for recalls now and then to keep your car in top shape.