Waymo recalls 3,800 robotaxis after software issue leads to flood incident
Alphabet-owned Waymo is recalling 3,791 autonomous vehicles in the United States over a software glitch affecting its self-driving robotaxis. The recall follows an April 20 incident in which an unoccupied Waymo drove into a flooded lane in San Antonio, prompting Waymo to review similar scenarios. Waymo said there were no injuries from the incident.
The recall targets a software flaw that may allow vehicles to maintain high speeds when entering standing water, increasing the risk of a crash, Reuters reported, citing a statement by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The recall adds to a string of investigations this year focusing on the technology’s performance in complex environments. Back in January, Waymo struck a child near a Santa Monica elementary school, and the vehicles have been involved in several instances of passing stopped school buses.
As of early 2026, the company operates about 3,000 robotaxis across ~10 US metropolitan areas, providing over 500,000 paid rides per week.
The recall targets a software flaw that may allow vehicles to maintain high speeds when entering standing water, increasing the risk of a crash, Reuters reported, citing a statement by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The recall adds to a string of investigations this year focusing on the technology’s performance in complex environments. Back in January, Waymo struck a child near a Santa Monica elementary school, and the vehicles have been involved in several instances of passing stopped school buses.
As of early 2026, the company operates about 3,000 robotaxis across ~10 US metropolitan areas, providing over 500,000 paid rides per week.
