Tesla has recently made a significant change to its Full Self-Driving penalty system, known as the “doghouse,” which will be welcomed by drivers. The doghouse refers to the penalty period that Tesla imposes on drivers who receive multiple infractions related to distracted driving.
Previously, Tesla implemented a seven-day ban on the use of Full Self-Driving for drivers who received five strikes in a vehicle equipped with a cabin camera and three strikes for those without a cabin camera. The company also allowed for the forgiveness of one strike per week of Full Self-Driving use, provided that no additional strikes were received during the seven-day period.
Now, Tesla has decided to reduce the timeframe for the removal of strikes by half. Strikes will now be removed every 3.5 days, as long as no new strikes are received during that time period. This change was discovered by Not a Tesla App, which noticed the adjustment in the Owner’s Manual for the latest 2025.32 Software Update.
While the system is intended to improve safety by encouraging drivers to remain attentive, there are still workarounds being promoted for monetary gain. These cheat devices are being marketed as a way to bypass the cabin-facing camera and engage in distracting activities while Full Self-Driving is active.
It is important to note that Tesla’s Autopilot system is a driver assistance feature and not a fully autonomous system. Drivers are required to remain fully attentive and be prepared to take control of the vehicle at any moment. Tesla emphasizes the importance of keeping hands on the steering wheel and maintaining control and responsibility for the vehicle.
The company’s decision to shorten the timeframe for strike forgiveness shows that they are willing to reward drivers who learn from their mistakes. However, the ultimate goal is for Tesla to achieve full autonomy, eliminating the need for these penalties altogether.
In conclusion, Tesla’s updated Full Self-Driving penalty system reflects their commitment to safety and responsible driving practices. As technology continues to advance, it will be interesting to see how Tesla evolves their autonomy features in the future.