In one of the largest safety recalls of 2025 so far, Ford Motor Company has announced it is recalling over 1 million vehicles across the United States due to a malfunction involving rearview camera systems. The recall affects both Ford and Lincoln models and spans vehicles built between 2021 and 2025.
The issue centers on the rearview camera display, which may freeze, delay, or fail to appear entirely when the vehicle is shifted into reverse. While it may sound like a minor inconvenience, rearview cameras are a federally required safety feature designed to prevent back-over accidents and property damage. A non-functioning camera creates a serious visibility hazard, especially in tight spaces, driveways, and parking lots.
Let’s take a closer look at what prompted the recall, which vehicles are affected, what owners should do, and how this incident fits into a larger trend of software-based safety issues in modern vehicles.
What Prompted the Recall?
The current Ford recall was prompted by a software glitch in the rearview camera system that can intermittently cause the camera image to fail when reversing. Drivers affected by this issue may see a frozen image, a black screen, or no display at all, which violates federal safety standards.
According to reports from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue was brought to Ford’s attention after nearly 40 driver complaints were submitted. Four of those complaints referenced ongoing problems, and one minor accident involving property damage was confirmed to be related to the malfunction. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported so far.
After investigating the issue internally, Ford engineers were able to reproduce and confirm the camera failure in April 2025. The problem was traced to a software coding error that affects how the camera signal is processed and displayed on the infotainment screen.
As a result, Ford filed a formal safety recall and is now working with the NHTSA to notify vehicle owners and roll out a fix.
Which Vehicles Are Affected?
The recall impacts an estimated 1,075,299 vehicles, covering a broad range of Ford and Lincoln models. These include sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and electric vehicles. Most were manufactured between 2021 and early 2025.
Here is a list of the affected models:
Ford Vehicles:
- Ford F-150 (2021–2025)
- Ford Bronco (2021–2025)
- Ford Mustang Mach-E (2021–2025)
- Ford Escape (2021–2025)
- Ford Edge (2021–2025)
- Ford Ranger (2021–2025)
Lincoln Vehicles:
- Lincoln Nautilus (2021–2025)
- Lincoln Navigator (2021–2025)
The issue affects vehicles equipped with Ford’s SYNC infotainment system, which controls the rearview display. Owners can verify whether their vehicle is included by checking their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on either the NHTSA recall website or Ford’s official recall page.
What Should Owners Do Next?
If you own one of the affected vehicles, there are several important steps you should take to ensure your safety and compliance with the recall:
1. Check Your VIN
Locate your vehicle’s VIN, typically found on the lower-left corner of your dashboard or inside the driver’s side door frame. Visit the official recall lookup tools at NHTSA or Ford’s website to check if your vehicle is included.
2. Wait for a Recall Notification
Ford will begin mailing notifications to affected vehicle owners starting June 16, 2025. These notices will explain the issue, outline the repair process, and provide details on how to schedule service.
3. Schedule a Repair
Once you’ve confirmed your vehicle is included, contact your local Ford or Lincoln dealership to book a free software update. This update will correct the glitch in the camera display system and restore proper function.
4. Watch for Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates
For newer vehicles equipped with OTA capability, Ford may push the software fix wirelessly—eliminating the need to visit a dealership. Make sure your infotainment system is connected to Wi-Fi and updated.
5. Avoid Driving in Reverse Without Visibility
Until the issue is fixed, use extra caution when backing up. Use side mirrors and turn your head to ensure you have a full view of your surroundings.
Ford’s Track Record and What This Recall Means for the Industry
This recall is not the first time Ford has faced issues with its rearview camera systems. In fact, a similar camera malfunction led to a $165 million fine in 2024 for failing to act swiftly on a previous recall affecting 620,000 vehicles. That incident drew criticism from safety advocates and regulators, putting pressure on Ford to respond more proactively to this new issue.
What This Says About Modern Vehicles
As vehicles become more reliant on software and advanced electronics, the number of tech-related recalls is increasing across the industry. From camera systems to collision avoidance features, even small glitches in code can lead to major safety concerns—requiring millions of vehicles to be recalled.
Ford’s Response
Ford has been more transparent in this instance, acknowledging the problem early and coordinating with the NHTSA for a prompt fix. The company says it is working to improve quality control procedures, especially in areas where software is central to safety features.
Consumer Trust
While Ford remains a dominant force in the U.S. automotive market, repeated recalls can erode consumer confidence. That said, many experts view recalls as a necessary and responsible step in maintaining long-term safety and quality.
Final Thoughts
The recall of over 1 million Ford and Lincoln vehicles due to a rearview camera failure is a serious development—but one that is being addressed proactively. If you drive one of the affected models, act quickly to confirm your VIN and schedule the necessary software update.
Vehicle safety depends not just on automakers, but also on informed and responsible drivers who respond to recalls and ensure their vehicles are functioning properly. Stay connected, stay updated, and don’t ignore those recall notices when they arrive in your mailbox.
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