German Court Declares Tesla Model 3’s Autopilot System ‘Defective’ Due to Phantom Braking Issues
In a landmark ruling, a German court has determined that the Autopilot system in the Tesla Model 3 is “malfunctioning” and “not suitable for regular use” due to persistent phantom braking issues. This decision marks the first time a court has officially characterized Tesla’s driver-assistance system in such terms and comes after years of complaints from Tesla owners across the globe regarding similar problems.
The case was brought to the German courts by Model 3 owner Christoph Lindner, who filed a lawsuit against Tesla after experiencing multiple alarming instances of phantom braking. According to Lindner, his vehicle has repeatedly and unexpectedly engaged its brakes in a variety of situations, including when entering and exiting tunnels, transitioning between different road surfaces, and even in the mere presence of larger vehicles.
Phantom braking—where a car’s advanced driver-assistance system mistakenly detects an obstacle and abruptly slows down or stops—has been a long-standing concern among Tesla owners in various markets. While Tesla has regularly released software updates aimed at addressing the issue, the problem has persisted for many drivers, raising questions about the reliability of its Autopilot system.
This ruling could have significant implications for Tesla in Germany and beyond, as it challenges the safety and functionality of one of the company’s most highly promoted technologies. It remains to be seen whether the verdict will lead to regulatory scrutiny, legal repercussions, or potential modifications to Tesla’s driver-assistance software in response to growing consumer concerns.
The court’s decision could potentially influence other legal actions against Tesla, as it sets a precedent for holding the company accountable for the performance of its Autopilot system. It may also prompt German regulators to take a closer look at the safety and compliance of Tesla’s driver-assistance technology within the country. Additionally, this ruling could impact consumer trust, particularly in European markets where strict safety standards are enforced, leading potential buyers to reconsider their confidence in Tesla’s self-driving capabilities. If Tesla fails to address these concerns effectively, it may face increased pressure from both regulators and consumers to refine its technology and improve its driver-assistance features.