Feds find more complaints of Tesla’s FSD running red lights and crossing lanes

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has uncovered at least 80 instances where Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software has reportedly breached traffic laws by running red lights or swerving into the wrong lane. This alarming revelation comes from a recent letter sent to Tesla, indicating an increase in complaints and potential violations. NHTSA’s findings include 62 complaints filed by Tesla drivers, 14 reports submitted by the company itself, and four reports from media outlets. This marks a significant rise from approximately 50 violations noted when the agency initially launched its investigation into the FSD behavior back in October. The agency's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is currently assessing whether Tesla's driver assistance technology can reliably identify and react to traffic signals, signs, and lane markings. Additionally, they are examining whether the software is adequately warning drivers when violations occur. Tesla is expected to respond to the inquiries by January 19, 2026. This uptick in complaints is particularly noteworthy as it stems from a previous report that highlighted multiple incidents at a specific intersection in Joppa, Maryland. Tesla had informed the agency that it had already taken measures to rectify issues at that location. However, NHTSA has not disclosed the geographic locations of the newly reported incidents, given that Tesla often redacts details in its submissions. Interestingly, this communication from NHTSA coincides with statements made by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who claimed that the latest FSD version would enable drivers to text while driving, a practice illegal in most states. NHTSA has not yet commented on Musk’s assertion. The letter serves to initiate the discovery process for NHTSA and outlines several requests for information from Tesla. These requests include details on the number of vehicles equipped with FSD and the frequency with which the software is activated. Furthermore, the ODI is asking for any customer complaints related to these specific FSD issues, including feedback from fleet operators and relevant lawsuits or arbitration cases. This marks the second investigation by NHTSA into Tesla’s FSD system, following a previous probe that began in October 2024 concerning the software’s performance in low-visibility conditions such as fog or bright sunlight.