Tesla Removes Option for One-Time Full Self-Driving Purchase

February 16, 2026 - 19:16

In a significant shift for customers, Tesla has removed the option to buy its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology with a single, upfront payment. The change, implemented over the weekend, means the driver-assistance suite is now only available through a monthly subscription.

The FSD package, which is still considered a "Beta" product and requires active driver supervision, offers advanced features like automated lane changes, traffic light recognition, and the promise of future autonomous capabilities. The one-time purchase price had recently been listed at $12,000. The move to a subscription-only model, priced at $199 per month, provides greater flexibility for drivers who may not want a long-term commitment.

This strategic pivot aligns Tesla with a recurring revenue model common in the software industry. It lowers the initial barrier to entry, potentially allowing more users to test the evolving technology. Existing customers who previously purchased FSD outright will retain access. The decision underscores Tesla's treatment of FSD as a continuously updating software service rather than a static product, though it represents a notable change in how new customers can access the system.