Ford is recalling nearly 1.1 million vehicles across the U.S. due to a rear-view camera software malfunction, raising safety concerns over visibility and crash risk.
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| Ford issues major recall over rear-view camera system failures in U.S., affecting multiple vehicle models from 2021 to 2025 due to a software malfunction. Image: Ford |
Detroit, USA – May 30, 2025:
Ford Motor Company has announced a significant recall affecting nearly 1.1 million vehicles in the United States after a widespread software issue was found to disrupt the proper functioning of rear-view cameras. The glitch can cause the camera image to freeze, delay, or not appear at all, posing an increased risk of collisions and prompting a comprehensive recall.
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirmed that the problem affects a wide range of Ford and Lincoln vehicles across multiple model years. Impacted models include the 2021–2024 Ford Bronco, F-150, and Edge; the 2023–2024 Escape, Corsair, F-250 through F-600 trucks; the 2022–2024 Expedition; 2022–2025 Transit; 2021–2023 Mustang Mach-E; 2024 Ranger and Mustang; and Lincoln’s 2021–2023 Nautilus and 2022–2024 Navigator.
NHTSA has stated that the infotainment software, which powers the car’s display systems, is at the core of the issue. A failure in specific software variants can prevent the rear-view camera image from loading or functioning correctly. This type of malfunction is a violation of federal motor vehicle safety standards, which require fully operational backup cameras on all vehicles.
Ford revealed that it became aware of the issue following customer complaints, particularly involving the best-selling F-150. In January, NHTSA contacted the automaker after receiving over three dozen complaints regarding camera failures. By April, Ford engineers had successfully replicated the issue, allowing them to identify its cause within the software code.
The automaker stated that it is currently aware of at least one crash linked to the defect. While no injuries have been reported, the incident did result in property damage. Given the critical nature of rear-view cameras for driver safety, Ford has taken proactive steps to address the defect.
Owners of affected vehicles will begin receiving safety notification letters from June 16, with a second letter to follow once the remedy is available. Ford plans to deliver the fix through over-the-air (OTA) software updates, allowing vehicle owners to receive the solution remotely without visiting a dealership.
The software in question is part of the operating system for Ford’s infotainment units, which control apps, media, maps, and rear-view camera displays. Ford’s move toward OTA updates mirrors broader automotive industry trends, as modern vehicles increasingly rely on integrated digital systems.
This latest recall follows two earlier Ford recalls in April, involving nearly 289,000 vehicles for separate rear-view camera faults. In those instances, the company opted for physical replacement of the cameras. Combined with this recall, Ford has had to address rear-view camera issues in over 1.3 million vehicles in the U.S. within just a few months.
The issue also brings renewed attention to Ford’s previous missteps regarding camera-related recalls. In November 2024, the automaker agreed to pay a $165 million civil penalty after a federal investigation found that Ford failed to initiate a timely recall for defective camera systems. That investigation began in 2021, following a 2020 recall of approximately 620,000 vehicles. The recall was later expanded in 2022 and again in March 2024 to include additional units.
As the U.S. auto regulator continues to monitor the situation, Ford reiterated its commitment to vehicle safety and compliance. The company emphasized that the software correction will be distributed as swiftly as possible once final testing concludes.
Still, with modern vehicles increasingly dependent on complex software systems, industry analysts warn that such technical vulnerabilities may become more frequent. Rear-view cameras, now a staple of vehicle safety features, must operate without failure, especially as drivers rely on them for situational awareness in crowded or urban settings.
For Ford, the latest development underscores the urgent need for robust digital quality assurance in its growing portfolio of tech-enabled vehicles. With consumer trust, regulatory compliance, and brand reputation on the line, how Ford handles this recall will likely serve as a benchmark for the industry in the age of software-defined cars.