Teslas’ Summoning Probed
Technology investigated over reports of crashes while vehicles were moved via phone app.

An estimated 2.6 million vehicles are included in the probe based on models equipped with the summoning technology.
Pexels
U.S. traffic safety investigators are looking into a Tesla technology that drivers use to bring their car to them or to a different location via a phone application.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an arm of the U.S. transportation department, opened the probe of various Tesla models that have the “Actually Smart Summon” feature after getting a complaint and hearing reports of crashes involving summoned Teslas.
The investigation takes in 2016 to 2025 models S and X, 2017 to 2025 Model 3, and 2020 to 2025 Model Y with Full Self-Driving technology.
The agency cites the issue as crashes during a summoning, including those in which the “operator does not have enough time to react due to vehicle proximity or line of sight.”
No injuries or deaths have been reported related to the issue, the agency said in an Office of Defects Investigation initial report. It noted it’s looking into 16 complaints and reports of incidents and estimated that about 2.6 million vehicles are included in the probe based on models equipped with the summoning technology.
Tesla originally called the feature Smart Summon but later added “Actually” to the name after extending its operating range and adding other capabilities.
The agency said Tesla has reported no crashes involving the technology. It will investigate the feature’s aspects related to crashes and determine the top speed it achieves for the vehicle, line-of-sight requirements, and other aspects.
Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today
More Industry

Charger Network Growth Slows
Despite a projected increase in public EV chargers in 2026, charging infrastructure remains a top concern for consumers as the gap between the most and least EV-friendly places remains substantial.
Read More →
Lenders, Consumers Take on More Auto Loan Risk
September records loosened credit access the most in over a decade as buyers took advantage of the conditions to afford trading, though loan applications fell.
Read More →
Next-Gen Hybrids in Sight
Dealerships can expect to see revamped hybrids from Honda next year as the company rolls out a new system and model lineup.
Read More →
Gem State Stores Change Hands
A larger auto group founded in the industry’s early years sold two franchises to a neighbor group that's on a growth spurt.
Read More →
Charging In Motion
Honda has been researching wireless in-motion charging for electric vehicles since 2025, and new technology developments have put it a step closer to a final product.
Read More →
Twin Cities Stores Sell
Minnesota-based Walser Automotive Group made what it called the most significant acquisition in its history with a three-rooftop deal in Minneapolis.
Read More →
U.S. Auto Sales Still Below Prepandemic Levels
Mobility Global industry observers don’t expect the market to return to the higher volumes that became routine before Covid but to stay well below its potential.
Read More →
The Powertrain Shift
Electric-vehicle owners are backpedaling, according to new data, with product availability driving many to shift back to gas-powered engines.
Read More →
Achromatic Autos
The shades that dominate the U.S. car market don’t call attention to themselves, though grayscale may have plateaued after a 30-year upswing, research shows.
Read More →
Used-Vehicle Affordability Worsens
Listing prices in August defied seasonal trends, rising above $27,000 for the second time this year.
Read More →