Tesla FSD: Real-World Experiences & Reactions
- After driving a Tesla Model 3 Performance for five months with its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, a veteran reporter shares observations on the current state of Tesla's autonomous...
- Initially,the reporter purchased the Tesla to enjoy its performance capabilities. however, a long-held captivation with autonomous vehicles, stemming from early experiences with Google's driverless tech, led to an...
- Despite Tesla's branding, the software functions as an advanced driver-assistance system.
after a 1,000-mile journey, a veteran reporter details real-world experiences with Tesla FSD, offering a deep dive into the strengths and weaknesses of this advanced driving system. News Directory 3’s analysis reveals how Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology excels in traffic, making for a more relaxed driving experience, but also highlights critical shortcomings. Learn about pothole avoidance, disengagement frequencies, and a troubling red-light incident, all of which shape perceptions of autonomous vehicle safety and the future of driving. Discover what’s next as Tesla pushes towards its robotaxi service launch and how crucial safety improvements will be in building trust in FSD.
Tesla Full Self-Driving: 1,000-Mile Test Reveals Autonomous Vehicle Realities
Updated May 29, 2025
After driving a Tesla Model 3 Performance for five months with its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, a veteran reporter shares observations on the current state of Tesla’s autonomous vehicle technology. The experience, covering over 1,000 miles in and around Silicon Valley, provides insights into what FSD can and cannot do.
Initially,the reporter purchased the Tesla to enjoy its performance capabilities. however, a long-held captivation with autonomous vehicles, stemming from early experiences with Google’s driverless tech, led to an in-depth exploration of Tesla’s FSD.
Despite Tesla’s branding, the software functions as an advanced driver-assistance system. The driver remains responsible and must stay attentive while FSD is engaged. Tesla plans to launch a robotaxi service in Austin in June, featuring fully autonomous software that requires no human supervision.
One notable benefit of using Tesla FSD is a more relaxed driving experience, especially in heavy traffic. With a destination set, the system handles stop-and-go conditions, reducing stress and improving the driver’s mood upon arrival. The FSD system also consistently makes complete stops at stop signs, promoting safer driving habits.
The system also appears to be more efficient. The reporter noted that tesla FSD uses less battery power compared to manual driving, based on onboard map predictions.
Though, the Tesla FSD system isn’t without its drawbacks. The system’s inability to avoid potholes is a concern. The reporter also experienced disengagements, including one instance on a narrow San Francisco street and another on Highway 80 when a car merged aggressively into their lane.
The reporter also noted that in “Chill” mode, FSD tends to stay in the slow lane, which can lead to getting stuck behind merging traffic. Driving manually allows for anticipating and avoiding such situations.
Initial impressions of Tesla’s full self-driving capabilities were positive. Though, a turning point came during a test comparing Tesla FSD against Waymo in San Francisco. The Tesla ran a red light, raising serious safety concerns. While Waymo avoided the intersection altogether, the incident highlighted a significant difference in approach.
“There’s a huge difference between running a red light at an intersection and proactively avoiding the intersection,” said Bryant Walker Smith, a lawyer specializing in autonomous vehicle technology.
What’s next
As Tesla prepares to launch its robotaxi service, the ongoing development and refinement of its FSD system will be crucial.Addressing issues like pothole avoidance, lane management, and, most importantly, ensuring safe responses to complex traffic scenarios will be essential for building public trust in autonomous vehicle technology.