NHTSA opens recall query into 2,895 Waymo vehicles over passing stopped school buses
The regulator is checking whether Waymo's December 2025 software recall fixed the defect; Reuters reports most incidents came after that update.
Why it matters
A recall query is the step NHTSA takes when it doubts a recall worked, so this tests whether a software update can be trusted to fix a robotaxi's behaviour. The question is whether Waymo vehicles still pass school buses showing flashing red lights or extended stop arms after first slowing or stopping. It comes as Waymo and Tesla expand driverless services into new cities. Watch whether the query becomes a new recall and whether other robotaxi operators face similar scrutiny.
Key facts
- Recall query covers 2,895 Waymo vehicles
- Reviews a December 2025 Waymo software recall
- Issue: passing school buses with flashing red lights or stop arms
- Most incidents reportedly occurred after the update
- Announced by NHTSA on Monday, 9 November