Waymo Recalls 3,971 Robotaxis Over Floodwater Safety Flaw

Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet, has issued a recall for 3,971 robotaxis due to a critical flaw in their ability to handle flooded roads. The affected vehicles, equipped with the company’s fifth- and sixth-generation automated driving systems, were built between March 17, 2022, and April 20, 2026.

The recall follows an incident on April 20, when an empty robotaxi in San Antonio, Texas, drove into floodwater and was swept into a nearby creek. According to Waymo, the vehicle’s sensors detected the water but the system continued moving at a reduced speed.

In a statement, Waymo confirmed the recall and noted that it has implemented temporary operational restrictions in areas with a high risk of flooding. However, the company acknowledged that these measures are only an interim solution. A permanent fix is still under development.

The robotaxi service in San Antonio remains suspended until the software update is completed.

The Recall Details

• Number of vehicles affected: 3,971
• Vehicle models: Fifth- and sixth-generation automated driving systems
• Production dates: March 17, 2022 – April 20, 2026
• Incident location: San Antonio, Texas
• Date of incident: April 20

Broader Challenges for Waymo

This recall comes at a challenging time for Waymo, which recently expanded its operations to London. The UK launch has faced early setbacks, including an incident where a robotaxi, operated by a human driver, drove through a police cordon during a stabbing investigation. The driver has since been suspended by Waymo.

"Self-driving software can master a six-lane interchange in rush hour and still be undone by nature."

The recall underscores the ongoing challenges in developing fully autonomous vehicles that can safely navigate all real-world conditions.