Google's parent company, Alphabet, has just announced it's recalling its entire Waymo fleet.The company says that its nearly 4,000 self-driving cars are being recalled due to a software issue that can cause the vehicles to enter a closed freeway construction zone and continuing to drive.According to multiple reports, there have been more than a dozen incidents since April in California and Arizona, where Waymos have suddenly passed ramp-closure signs and into active construction zones on freeways.A Jaguar Waymo self-driving robotaxi drives through at Oxford Circus, on 16th June 2026, in London, England. Waymo are testing their vehicles around the capital using a driver at the wheel. Waymo say they're not yet offering commercial rides, but instead testing 24/7 to ensure their technology can safely handle all of London's road conditions. (Photo by Richard Baker / In Pictures via Getty Images)Alphabet says Waymo 5th Generation Automated Driving Systems manufactured between May 17, 2022, and May 19, 2026, are affected by the recall.AdvertisementAdvertisementAccording to Reuters, the company self-imposed freeway driving restrictions until a fix was found."We identified an area of improvement regarding performance around freeway construction zones," Waymo stated, via TechCrunch. "We voluntarily restricted freeway operations last month while making improvements, proactively notified state and federal regulators, and decided to file a voluntary recall with NHTSA."This is Alphabet's second recall in a little over a month due to Waymo cars entering flooded roads with higher speed limits. That April 20 recall came after a Waymo drove into a flooded lane in San Antonio, Texas.So, for now, this means that Waymos cannot travel on freeways. Waymos will still be around, but only available to drive surface streets.AdvertisementAdvertisementIn other words, if you need a ride to the airport or are trying to avoid traffic, don't go with Waymo.This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
