Observations After Two Weeks with Tesla Hardware 4 & Full Self Driving V14 in My 2026 Tesla Model Y

After nearly seven years of experience with Tesla’s Full Self Driving (FSD) system, the author reflects on the significant advancements brought by the latest Hardware 4 (HW4) and FSD Version 14 in their 2026 Tesla Model Y. Previously limited by the older HW3 system and stuck on FSD V12, which never achieved the promised Level 4 autonomy, the upgrade to HW4 has introduced a markedly improved computer and camera suite, enabling a far more capable and reliable autonomous driving experience. The new system can now handle complex tasks such as backing out of a garage or parking without intervention, demonstrating a leap forward in practical usability. FSD V14 offers a range of driving modes—from Sloth to Mad Max—that adjust the vehicle’s speed relative to the limit, allowing users to tailor the driving style to their preferences. The system is designed to drive with minimal supervision, rarely requiring corrections, and it tracks the percentage of driving time during which FSD is active. The author notes that the system is particularly impressive in its ability to detect cross traffic and navigate everyday driving scenarios, though they still recommend supervisory attention for safety. Notably, FSD V14 overcomes earlier limitations, such as the inability to function with bikes mounted on the rear, which was a problem with FSD V12. Despite these improvements, the author highlights ongoing challenges, particularly with navigation accuracy and parking. Tesla’s reliance on GPS, which can be off by around 15 feet, combined with occasional inaccuracies in Google Maps data, leads to errors such as directing the car to the wrong address or failing to find parking lots correctly. The system can also make questionable route choices, such as taking incorrect turns or misinterpreting lane assignments at intersections. These issues underscore the need for more precise mapping data and better integration of lane-level information to enhance FSD’s reliability. The article also touches on Tesla’s evolving business model, noting a significant change whereby steering assist now requires a subscription fee of £99 per month, even on new vehicles. This marks a departure from previous models where basic steering assistance was included, potentially affecting user experience and the perceived value of Tesla’s driver assistance features. Overall, while FSD V14 and HW4 represent a major step forward in Tesla’s autonomous driving capabilities, the system remains a work in progress with room for improvement in navigation and user interface.