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2023 Model 3 Phantom Braking - ADAS Sensor Issues?

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Robert C. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:28 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2023 Tesla Model 3 RWD

I recently took delivery of my 2023 Tesla Model 3 RWD, and I'm experiencing frequent 'phantom braking' incidents, especially on highways. The car will suddenly and aggressively brake for no apparent reason, even when there's no car in front of me or anything in the road. It's incredibly jarring and frankly, quite dangerous.

This happens when using Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC) or Autopilot. I've tried adjusting the following distance and turning off 'Full Self-Driving (Beta)' features, but it still occurs. I know Tesla uses a vision-only system now, but this feels like a serious flaw.

Is this a common problem with the newer vision-only Teslas? Are there any settings I can change, or is this something that requires a service visit? I'm worried about getting rear-ended.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:28 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Phantom braking, or 'false positive' braking events, is a widely discussed issue, particularly with Tesla vehicles that have transitioned to a vision-only Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS). While Tesla continuously refines its software, these incidents can be alarming and dangerous.

  1. Causes of Phantom Braking:

    • Vision-Only System Limitations: Without radar, the system relies solely on cameras to interpret the environment. Shadows, changes in road surface, overpasses, oncoming traffic in adjacent lanes, or even certain road signs can sometimes be misinterpreted as obstacles.
    • Software Logic: The algorithms that process camera data and decide when to brake are complex and still evolving. Aggressive braking might be a safety-first approach to perceived threats.
    • Camera Calibration: If the cameras are not perfectly calibrated, their perception of depth and distance can be skewed.
    • Environmental Factors: Heavy rain, fog, or direct sunlight can temporarily impair camera vision, leading to system uncertainty and potential braking.

  2. Troubleshooting & Mitigation:

    • Software Updates: Ensure your car has the latest software. Tesla frequently releases updates that aim to reduce phantom braking events.
    • Clean Cameras: Regularly clean all exterior cameras (front, side pillars, rear). Dirt, dust, or smudges can significantly impair their vision.
    • Adjust Settings: While you've tried, experiment with different 'Following Distance' settings in TACC. Sometimes a longer following distance can reduce sensitivity.
    • Be Prepared: Always keep your hands on the wheel and be ready to intervene by pressing the accelerator to override the braking or disengaging Autopilot/TACC.

  3. Recalls and TSBs: Tesla has issued software updates and, in some cases, voluntary recalls (often over-the-air) to address phantom braking and other ADAS-related issues. These are typically software fixes rather than hardware replacements. Your 2023 model would have the latest hardware, so it's primarily a software challenge.

  4. Internal Diagnostics: Your vehicle's system will log ADAS events. While there isn't a standard OBD-II code for phantom braking, the car's internal diagnostics will record instances where the system initiated braking. You won't typically see a direct alert on your screen unless there's a system malfunction.

  5. When to See a Shop:

    • If it's unusually frequent or severe: While some phantom braking is unfortunately common, if it's happening excessively or in situations where others with similar vehicles don't experience it, a service appointment is warranted.
    • If you receive any ADAS-related error messages: This would indicate a potential hardware fault with a camera or sensor, which a service center can diagnose and repair. They can also perform a camera recalibration if needed.
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