Tesla to recall 54,000 vehicles with full self-driving software for running through stop signs

Tesla will recall its vehicles with Full Self Driving Beta (FSD Beta) software because it allows the cars to roll through stop signs without making full stops at intersections, creating a safety risk.

The FSD Beta software allows vehicles to come to a “rolling stop” at intersection. With this feature, vehicles can go through intersections with all-way stop signs at 5.6 mph instead of coming to a full stop, violating state laws.

According to records from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), failing to stop for a sign can increase the risk of accidents.

The Vehicle Safety Act prohibits manufacturers from selling vehicles with defects posing unreasonable risks to safety, including intentional design choices that are unsafe,” the agency said. “If the information shows that a safety risk may exist, NHTSA will act immediately.”

Tesla agreed to the recall after meeting with NHTSA over the issue. The models that will be recalled include the 2016-2022 Model S and X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles.  

The car company said will update the software over-the-air, disabling the “rolling stop” feature, said NHTSA.

As of January 27, Tesla said it was not aware of any claims or crashes related to the recall.

In November, Tesla recalled almost 12,000 vehicles due to a communication error in the software that would cause a false collision warning or activate the car’s emergency brakes.