Aftermarket kits promising partial autopilot have begun to surface, and experts warn they may undermine safety. These SAE Level 2 features still require the driver’s constant oversight, yet they can create a sense of full autonomy—an expectation gap that too easily encourages complacency.

The devices hook into a car’s electronics and take charge of steering, braking, and acceleration with the help of cameras and sensors. Unlike factory systems, they are not certified or vetted against government standards that automakers must meet. The NHTSA indicates that such products can be recalled if they present an unwarranted safety risk, but gaps in the law often leave owners carrying the burden. That regulatory gray area is exactly where problems tend to begin.

Specialists also caution that installing these kits can result in insurance denial and fines. For those who really want modern driver-assistance tech, it’s safer to consider new cars with factory systems certified for the local market. The appeal of do-it-yourself autonomy is understandable, but on the road the wisest move is choosing technology that’s been properly certified for where you drive.