US3 min(s) read
A Tesla Cybertruck owner was left stunned after finding out how much it would cost him to repair damage caused when the car was in self-driving mode.
Russell Miller, from Indiana, claims he got into an accident while driving on the highway using FSD (Full Self-Driving).
Though it was raining, everything was going smoothly until the Cybertruck reportedly began to slide while going 52MPH, and collided with a highway divider.
Thankfully, Russell was unharmed in the incident, and the vehicle only sustained moderate damage to its exterior. He added that the airbags did not deploy, and the Cybertruck was still drivable afterward.
Like anyone that's had a minor ding in their vehicle, Russell sought to get the damage sorted, thinking he'd got off pretty lightly, all things considered.
That is, until he got the bill for the repair - which racked up to a massive $60,000, and a recommendation that the car should be totaled.
He shared his story in the Cybertruck Owners Only group on Facebook, writing: "PSA (public service announcement): First of all, I would advise against using FSD in any rain. I just had a hydroplaning accident at 52 mph on an interstate exit. I took over in 1 sec but was unable to gain traction.
"Second, although the damage appeared to be minor (damage to the front corner by the driver’s side, no airbag deployed, drivable), the Tesla collision center has managed to get the repairs up to $60k, TOTALING my truck!"
He also shared a video of the accident as recorded by the Cybertruck's front camera, which also records the speed the vehicle was traveling at, whether it was being driven manually or with FSD, and the position of the steering wheel and whether the brake pedal was used.
Per the video, the Cybertruck was traveling at 58MPH, before slowing to 52MPH as it took the exit, where it began to slide sideways.
While the Cybertruck was initially in the right lane, as it slid sideways it struck the highway divider on the left side, continuing to slide as it rubbed against the concrete.
He also shared images of the damage the outside of the vehicle sustained, showing the front fender had received moderate damage, while the stainless steel body remained largely intact.
Other Cybertruck owners shared their thoughts, writing: "I've noticed that when using FSD, the truck tends to brake automatically to maintain speed. That can easily trigger hydroplaning, and it's one of the things I'm worried about."
Another added: "Post the estimate when you get it. I used to be in collision and would be curious how this is $60k."
Someone else commented: "Damn that sucks. 60k!? so whats going to happen? Are you getting a replacement?"
Others suggested that the reason for the hydroplaning might have been down to the condition of the tyres moreso than the use of FSD, as there is a higher chance of slipping if they were worn.
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