Tesla, the largest electric vehicle manufacturer, announced yesterday that it was recalling nearly 363,000 cars equipped with the “Full Self-Driving” feature. This announcement is predictable, as this is not the first issue the company has faced with FSD. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) reports that the FSD can cause unpredictable and dangerous driving behavior led to the recall.

NHTSA report on FSD software highlighted issues like vehicles travelling at excessive speeds and crossing intersections in a way that is illegal or unpredictable. Tesla recalled the affected cars because of the potential that these problems could lead to accidents.

Tesla owners have shown a great interest in the FSD feature, as they want to enjoy hands-free driving while on highways or long distances. FSD, which is an extra $15,000 USD at the time of ordering, has played a major role in increasing demand for Tesla cars. The vehicle offers a level of autonomy that is unprecedented for drivers.

The recall has however raised concerns about the FSD’s safety and value to consumers. Tesla owners report that the FSD upgrade was not worth the extra cost. Others have praised it for its convenience.

Tesla’s cars are known as “computers on wheels” because of their tech approach. The company will likely try to fix the FSD by using over-the-air/remote installations, which are often seen as a cheap way to fix errors.

The desire of society for hands-free and autonomous driving comes with a price, and the recent Tesla Recall is a reminder of these challenges. The FSD feature is convenient and autonomous, but it comes with some risk. It requires constant monitoring and close attention.

It is important to keep in mind that as society progresses towards an automated future, this new level autonomy will come at a cost. Manufacturers and consumers must both prioritize safety.