Proposed rule · 2026-05023

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Modernization of FMVSS No. 103 and FMVSS No. 104 To Accommodate ADS-Equipped Vehicles; Incorporation by Reference

NHTSA is proposing to amend Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) No. 103, "Windshield defrosting and defogging systems," and FMVSS No. 104, "Windshield wiping and washing systems." The proposed modifications would except vehicles equipped with Automated Driving Systems (ADS) that do not have manually operated driving controls from these standards. This rulemaking would remove unnecessary regulatory burdens and costs associated with systems intended to provide visibility for a person driving the vehicle. As these systems do not fulfill the same safety need on an ADS-equipped vehicle without manually operated driving controls, the proposed changes are not expected to have adverse safety effects. Manufacturers may still provide these systems if they choose to do so. These actions are part of a larger NHTSA effort to address vehicle automation in the agency's regulations. This proposal would also harmonize FMVSS Nos. 103 and 104 with current industry standards through incorporations by reference.