The Ultimate Guide to Tesla FSD Speed Profiles: Sloth 🚶‍♂️ to Mad Max 🚀 2025 - 2026

Tesla FSD Speed Profiles explained! We break down what each mode means (Sloth, Chill, Standard, Hurry, Mad Max) and show you how to change them quickly. Essential guide for new FSD users. 👇

Table of Contents (Snippet Summary)

I. What Are FSD Speed Profiles?

Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, specifically with the latest v14+ update (Software 2025.32+), introduced five distinct Speed Profiles (also known as Driver Profiles). These settings allow the driver to customize the car's automated driving personality to match their comfort level, traffic conditions, or personal style.

The five modes range from the most cautious to the most aggressive:

What Do These Profiles Control?

Each profile simultaneously adjusts three main behaviors of your FSD system:

1. Speed Relative to Limit: How fast the car drives relative to the posted speed limit (e.g., 0% over vs. 30%+ over).

2. Following Distance: The distance maintained between your Tesla and the car directly in front of you.

3. Assertiveness/Passing: How often the car uses the passing lane and how assertive it is when merging or making lane changes.

II. Guide to the 5 Driving Styles

Understanding the unique behavior of each profile helps maximize safety and efficiency for different driving scenarios:

III. How to Instantly Change Your Profile

Changing your profile is designed to be quick and intuitive, allowing you to adapt instantly to traffic conditions:

1. Using the Right Scroll Wheel (The Fast Way): Once FSD is engaged, simply use the Right Scroll Wheel on your steering wheel. Scroll up or down to instantly cycle through the different profiles (Sloth, Chill, Standard, Hurry, Mad Max). This is the fastest way to adjust your car's "mood."
    

2. Using the On-Screen Menu:
   

   • Access the Controls menu on the main screen.

   • Navigate to the Autopilot Speed Profile setting.

   • Tap to select the mode that matches your current desired vibe.

   
   
   

IV. Top 5 FAQs from New FSD Users

1. Which mode should I start with if I'm new to FSD?

If you are just starting out with FSD, it is strongly recommended to begin with Sloth or Chill mode. These settings offer a more cautious driving experience with larger following distances, allowing you to get accustomed to the technology's reactions and operational style in a safer, more relaxed environment.

2. Does the Standard profile follow the speed limit?

The Standard profile is designed to replicate the average driver, meaning it will typically target a speed 10% to 20% over the posted speed limit when driving conditions allow. If you want your Tesla to adhere strictly to the speed limit (0% over), you must select the Sloth profile.

3. Can I use these modes for long-distance highway trips?

Yes, but the recommended mode depends on your preference. For many drivers, Chill mode is ideal for long-distance highway travel, as it results in less frequent passing and merging, providing a more relaxed and stress-free experience in the non-passing lanes. However, Standard offers a faster, more typical pace.

4. If a mode drives 20%+ over the speed limit, is that legal?

Yes, setting a mode like Hurry or Mad Max to exceed the posted speed limit by any percentage is contrary to traffic laws in all jurisdictions. While FSD is designed to operate safely, the driver is always 100% legally responsible for the vehicle's speed and behavior. You should only use these higher settings if you are comfortable accepting the risk of a speeding fine, as FSD operates based on your requested speed bias, not local legal limits.

5. How can I ensure critical footage (Sentry/Dashcam) is safely recorded?

For extra safety during FSD operation, and to ensure you never miss a critical Sentry Mode or Dashcam event, you should upgrade your storage solution.

The factory-provided USB drives are great for getting started, but they can fill up quickly as the storage capacity is typically around 64 GB or 128 GB. This means critical footage might be overwritten before you can save it.

To guarantee comprehensive and reliable recording, you can try using a dedicated, high-capacity external SSD Hub (like the Jowua 1TB hub). This provides reliable, extended storage to ensure that all events surrounding the car are recorded and saved without fear of data being overwritten.

Sources:

• Jowua Engineers Team 💪

• Tesla Vehicle Support: https://www.tesla.com/support
  

• Special Thanks to "TESLA HOW TO" for photos in this blog; 🙏🎉👇
• YouTube: Tesla How To "Tesla How To Switch FSD Speed Profiles: Sloth vs Chill vs Standard vs Hurry vs Mad Max Explained" https://youtu.be/552UL2GZGwM?si=k2zK8uWZxvU4n3BK