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Though its sophisticated driver-assistance technologies have transformed driving, Tesla's Autopilot still annoys customers with phantom braking, a nagging problem. Though years of software upgrades have addressed many issues, this one—where the vehicle unexpectedly stops for no clear cause—remains a major worry in 2025.
This blog will investigate:
What triggers phantom braking?
Why does it still occur in 2025?
Possible solutions and responses from Tesla
Check your Autopilot settings to make sure they are correct. Using Autopilot: How to Remain Safe
Tesla Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability
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Tesla Autopilot is a semi-autonomous driving system that assists drivers with steering, acceleration, and braking.
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Full Self-Driving Capability is an advanced feature that enables Tesla vehicles to navigate complex roads and traffic scenarios.
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Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability rely on a combination of sensors, cameras, and mapping data to operate.
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However, the systems are not perfect and can be affected by various factors, including software glitches and sensor malfunctions.
What is Phantom Braking?
Phantom braking refers to unexpected and sudden braking incidents while using Tesla Autopilot or adaptive cruise control. It can occur without any apparent reason or obstacle, causing inconvenience and safety concerns for Tesla drivers.
Phantom braking has been reported by several Tesla owners and has raised concerns about the reliability of Autopilot. The issue has been observed in various Tesla models, including those equipped with Full Self-Driving Capability. This might take place:
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On roadways with obvious traffic
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When going beneath shadows or bridges
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Close to road signs or big trucks
Actual-World Cases (2025 Reports)
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On open highways, unexpected speed decreases from 70 mph to 50 mph.
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Unneeded braking while passing trucks
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Incorrect responses to bridges or overhead signs
These events can be hazardous, particularly if a driver behind isn't expecting such a quick reduction, not only irritating.
What Causes Phantom Braking to Still Occur in 2025?
Phantom braking is still a common issue despite Tesla's assertions of Autopilot enhancement. This is the reason:
Causes of Phantom Braking
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Software glitches and bugs can cause phantom braking incidents in Tesla Autopilot.
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Sensor malfunctions or misalignment can also contribute to unexpected braking.
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Mapping data errors or inaccuracies can lead to phantom braking in certain scenarios.
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Driver behavior and input can also influence the Autopilot system and cause phantom braking.
No Radar in Newer Models: Overreliance on Cameras
Relying only on Tesla Vision (camera-based detection), Tesla has removed radar from its newest vehicles (such as the Model 3 and Y) since 2021. Although good, cameras can be tricked by shadows, glare, or optical illusions, which can cause erroneous braking.
Software: Still Learning Edge Cases
While unexpected situations like unique shadows or road markings could potentially confound the system, Tesla's neural networks get better with data.
Legal & Regulatory Hurdles
Investigations by NHTSA into Tesla Autopilot safety issues have pushed Tesla to make its brakes more cautious, perhaps excessively so.
Lawsuits over unexpected braking events have caused Tesla to err on the side of over-braking rather than under-braking.
Confusing Road Conditions
Highway overpasses (shadows can resemble barriers)
Reflections or bright sunlight (glare gives cameras problems)
Misread road signs (speed limit signs read wrong).
Safety Concerns and Statistics
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Phantom braking can pose a safety risk to Tesla drivers and other road users, particularly if it occurs at high speeds.
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According to some reports, phantom braking incidents have resulted in accidents and injuries.
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Tesla has faced criticism for its handling of phantom braking issues and the lack of transparency in addressing the problem.
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Regulatory bodies have also taken notice of the issue and are investigating the safety implications of phantom braking.
Tesla Model Affected by Phantom Braking
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Phantom braking has been reported in various Tesla models, including the Model S, Model 3, and Model X.
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The issue is not limited to specific trim levels or configurations, but rather affects a wide range of Tesla vehicles.
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Tesla owners have reported phantom braking incidents in different driving scenarios, including highway driving and city streets.
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The problem has been observed in both Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability modes.
Normal Use and Phantom Braking
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Phantom braking can occur during normal use of Tesla Autopilot, even when the system is functioning as intended.
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The issue is not limited to extreme or unusual driving scenarios, but rather can occur in everyday driving situations.
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Tesla owners have reported phantom braking incidents while using Autopilot in traffic-aware cruise control mode.
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The problem has also been observed in situations where the Autopilot system is maintaining speed or navigating through intersections.
Self-Driving Technology and Phantom Braking
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Phantom braking is a challenge for self-driving technology, as it requires the system to accurately detect and respond to its environment.
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Tesla’s Autopilot system relies on a combination of sensors and cameras to detect obstacles and navigate roads.
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However, the system is not perfect and can be affected by various factors, including software glitches and sensor malfunctions.
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Phantom braking incidents highlight the need for continued development and improvement of self-driving technology.
Tesla’s Response to Phantom Braking
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Tesla has acknowledged the issue of phantom braking and has taken steps to address the problem.
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The company has released software updates to improve the Autopilot system and reduce the occurrence of phantom braking.
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Tesla has also provided guidance to owners on how to use Autopilot safely and avoid phantom braking incidents.
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However, some owners and critics argue that Tesla’s response has been inadequate and that more needs to be done to address the issue.
Though Tesla has not formally recognized phantom braking as a common problem, software patches have lessened (but not completely fixed) incidents. Slowly, FSD Beta enhancements—smoother braking logic—are reaching Autopilot. Over time, new artificial intelligence training techniques, more real-world data—might be beneficial.
Tesla engineers continue refining the automatic emergency braking system in Tesla cars, particularly for Enhanced Autopilot users, where false activations remain a persistent challenge. While the technology aims to prevent collisions, over-sensitive triggers in shadowy conditions or near highway overpasses still cause unintended braking events—an issue engineers are addressing through neural network updates and improved sensor calibration.
Ways to Cut Phantom Braking
Tesla is working on solutions; in the interim, consider this:
Stay Ready and Keep Your Hands on the Wheel
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Always be ready to override; never completely trust Autopilot.
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If the vehicle begins to brake needlessly, press the throttle gently.
Change Distance Following
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Raise the Autopilot follow distance (Controls > Autopilot > Follow Distance).
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A longer gap lessens reflexes to abrupt braking.
Turn off Autopilot in Problem Areas
Drive manually through certain areas if phantom braking occurs frequently there.
Notify Tesla of Problems
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Use the voice command “Report bug” after a phantom braking event.
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This sends data to Tesla to help improve the system.
Regulatory and Legal Actions
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Regulatory bodies have taken notice of the phantom breaking issue and are investigating the safety implications.
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Tesla has faced lawsuits and regulatory actions related to phantom braking incidents.
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The company has been fined and penalized for violating safety regulations and failing to address the issue.
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Regulatory bodies are also considering new safety standards for self-driving technology to address the issue of phantom braking.
Is Tesla Fixing This? Future Updates
FSD v12 and beyond promise smoother braking logic.
More advanced AI training could reduce false positives.
Possible radar or LiDAR reintroduction? (Unlikely, but some experts suggest sensor fusion could help.)
Conclusion
Phantom braking is a significant issue for Tesla Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability. The problem has raised concerns about the safety and reliability of self-driving technology. Although software updates have been beneficial, the system still misreads shadows, signs, and road conditions, which causes unanticipated and rapid braking.
Tesla must continue to address the issue and improve its Autopilot system to prevent phantom braking incidents. Regulatory bodies must also take action to ensure that self-driving technology is safe and reliable for all road users. Drivers should be vigilant, keep their hands on the steering wheel, and be ready to intervene until Tesla completely fixes the issue.
