Waymo recalls nearly 3,900 robotaxis over software issue that could cause cars to drive into freeway construction zones

Waymo is recalling 3,871 robotaxis in the US over a software issue that could drive them into freeway construction zones. The recall cites 13 incidents: six in April in Phoenix and seven in May in the San Francisco Bay Area, involving failure to recognize ramp-closure signs and entering active construction lanes by driving between cones. No crashes or injuries were reported, and Waymo has limited freeway operations while it develops a permanent fix, notifying regulators and filing a voluntary software recall with NHTSA. This marks Waymo’s second recall this year and its sixth overall for the robotaxi fleet, following a May recall after a flooded-street incident. The company remains under federal safety scrutiny following a January incident in which a Waymo robotaxi struck a child near a Santa Monica elementary school, as it continues testing and safety improvements.