Waymo recalls 5th Generation self-driving systems over software that may enter closed freeway construction zones
The software in these self-driving systems may let a vehicle drive into a closed freeway construction zone and keep going at speed, which raises the risk of a crash.
What to do
Waymo has already updated the software free of charge, starting June 16, 2026, so owners do not need to do anything. Waymo resumed freeway operations on June 25, 2026.
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Recall details
- Product
- Waymo 5th Generation Ads
- Company
- Waymo LLC
- Hazard
- Driving through a closed construction zone increases the risk of a crash.
- Units
- 3,871 pieces of equipment
- Reported to NHTSA
- June 12, 2026
- Identifiers
- NHTSA campaign number: 26E035000
The headline, summary and steps above are written in plain English from the official notice below. Identifiers are copied exactly as the agency published them. Always check the official notice before you act.
Official notice
The notice's own wording from NHTSA.
- Component
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE
- Defect
- Waymo LLC (Waymo) is recalling certain 5th Generation Automated Driving Systems (ADS). The software may allow the vehicle to enter a closed freeway construction zone and continue driving at speed.
- Consequence
- Driving through a closed construction zone increases the risk of a crash.
- Corrective action
- Beginning June 16, 2026 Waymo updated the ADS software to detect when the vehicle is in and to avoid entering construction zones, free of charge. Waymo resumed vehicle operations on freeway June 25, 2026.
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