diff --git a/selfdrive/pandad.py b/selfdrive/pandad.py
index a3ddaf48..52444040 100755
--- a/selfdrive/pandad.py
+++ b/selfdrive/pandad.py
@@ -40,7 +40,11 @@ def get_expected_signature(fw_fn=None):
   if fw_fn is None:
     fw_fn = get_firmware_fn()
 
-  return Panda.get_signature_from_firmware(fw_fn)
+  try:
+    return Panda.get_signature_from_firmware(fw_fn)
+  except Exception:
+    cloudlog.exception("Error computing expected signature")
+    return b""
 
 
 def update_panda():