Does Full Self-Driving (FSD) Transfer When You Sell a Tesla?

Understanding FSD Ownership

Fully autonomous driving features, commonly referred to as Full Self-Driving (FSD), are applied to the car itself, not to the purchaser. This means that FSD transfers to the new owner when a Tesla is sold. However, there are some important nuances to consider, especially depending on how the vehicle is sold.

Transfer of FSD Through Private Sales

In most cases, FSD does transfer to the new owner when the car is sold privately. If you’re selling your Tesla directly to another individual, the FSD feature can be transferred without any additional cost.

Complexity with Dealerships

However, if the car is sold through a dealership, things can get more complicated. Tesla prefers to handle the sale of FSD separately. They may choose to strip the FSD from the car and offer it as a standalone upgrade, or they may sell the subscription package to the new owner. This approach aligns with their business model, which prioritizes profit maximization.

When selling through a dealership, you should be prepared to re-purchase FSD if you want to retain the feature, unless explicitly stated otherwise in the terms and conditions.

Tesla's Reservations and Policies

Tesla has been known to reserve the right to cancel FSD at any time. However, this policy is not commonly enforced. It's always recommended to contact Tesla directly to verify the terms of FSD ownership and any potential restrictions before finalizing a private sale.

Contacting Tesla for Clarity

No matter the method of sale, it's always a good idea to reach out to Tesla. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information about FSD ownership. This is especially important if you are selling the car privately, as there can be unexpected complications that only Tesla can clarify.

Conclusion

In summary, FSD transfers to the new owner in many cases, particularly in private transactions. However, if the sale is through a dealership, there can be additional complexities. To ensure a smooth transition and avoid any financial surprises, contact Tesla for detailed information and clarification.

Keywords

Tesla FSD, Full Self-Driving, Transfer of Ownership