Asger Risom
The NHTSA is investigating Tesla after claims the automaker delayed reporting crashes tied to its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems.
The NHTSA is investigating Tesla after claims the automaker delayed reporting crashes tied to its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems.
The Allegation
Federal filings say Tesla reported incidents “several months or more” after crashes occurred—despite being required to report within one to five days.
Why It Matters
Tesla’s driver-assistance features already face intense scrutiny. Slow reporting could hide safety risks and mislead regulators.
Tesla’s Response
The company says delays were due to failures in its internal data systems—not intentional concealment—and that the issues have been fixed.
Autopilot vs. Self-Driving
Despite its name, Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” isn’t autonomous. It’s a Level 2 driver-assist system, meaning the driver must stay alert and responsible at all times.
The Bigger Picture
Confusion between “driver-assist” and “self-driving” has plagued Tesla for years, with critics accusing it of misleading marketing.
Consumer Risk
If drivers believe the car is more autonomous than it is, they may misuse it—raising the stakes of accurate and timely crash reporting.
What’s Next
The NHTSA probe will determine whether Tesla’s delays were negligence or deliberate slow-walking to protect its reputation.
Why It’s a Big Deal
Mandatory crash data is key to assessing safety. If Tesla held back reports, regulators could move to tighten oversight of Autopilot and Full Self-Driving.
