Greater Manchester Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage as officers continue their investigation.
Emergency services were called at about 11pm on Saturday 11 July to the eastbound carriageway of the M62 between junctions 21 and 22.
The collision involved a grey Nissan Juke and a grey BMW X5.
Greater Manchester Police said it is believed the Nissan had been travelling in the wrong direction on the eastbound carriageway before the vehicles collided.
The driver of the Nissan, a woman in her 50s, suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver and passengers in the BMW were treated for minor injuries.
No arrests have been made.
The motorway remained closed while officers from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit carried out collision investigation work. Drivers were advised to leave the M62 at junction 20 and follow the Hollow Circle diversion route. Police said the closure was expected to remain in place for several hours.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said, "Officers from our Serious Collision Investigation Unit are appealing for information following a fatal collision that occurred on the M62 in Rochdale.
"It is believed the Nissan was travelling in the wrong direction on the eastbound carriageway prior to the collision.
"The driver and passengers of the BMW were treated for minor injuries.
"The Serious Collision Investigation Unit are now appealing for anyone who may have witnessed this to come forward.
"They are keen to speak to anyone who may have dashcam or CCTV footage from the area in the moments leading up to the incident."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 4741 quoting log 4349 of 11 July 2026.
Information can also be shared using the reporting tools on the Greater Manchester Police website or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
