Waymo recalls thousands of robotaxis. Here's why

Waymo has recalled nearly 4,000 of its robotaxis after reports that several drove into closed freeway construction zones.

Waymo has recalled 3,871 of its 5th Generation Automated Driving Systems because the vehicle's software may allow it to enter a closed freeway construction zone, causing the robotaxis to continue driving at posted speeds, according to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall report. The vehicle may avoid or fail to recognize a construction zone because of the faulty software. Of the vehicles outlined, Waymo estimates that 100% are impacted by the recall.

Waymo's Field Safety Committee began a series of meetings in late April after reviewing six events in which its robotaxis drove past ramp closure signs into freeway construction zones, according to the recall report. In May, the committee met again to discuss seven more instances of robotaxis entering active construction zones in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Here's what else to know about the Waymo robotaxi recall.

Which Waymo robotaxis are affected by the recall?

Waymo 5th Generation Automated Driving Systems manufactured between May 17, 2022, and May 19, 2026, are affected by the recall, according to the report.

What is Waymo doing to fix the issue?

As of June 13, a remedy for the issue was under development. Vehicle software will be updated when available.

Because of the 13 reported instances in which its robotaxis entered freeway construction zones, Waymo's Field Safety Committee implemented freeway driving restrictions for its vehicles until the root cause can be identified and remedied.

Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Unlimited Use: Waymo recalls thousands of robotaxis. Here's why

Reporting by Greta Cross, USA TODAY / USA TODAY Unlimited Use

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This story was originally published July 13, 2026 at 9:42 AM.