Software Glitch in Rear Cameras Leads to Ford's Largest Recall of 2025
If you drive a Ford or Lincoln made in the last few years, it's time to double-check your dashboard— and your mailbox. Ford is recalling more than 1.1 million vehicles across the U.S. due to a rearview camera malfunction that could leave drivers reversing blind.
The culprit? A software glitch that causes the camera feed to freeze, lag, or go completely blank right when you switch into reverse. And in a world where modern drivers rely heavily on screens, that's more than a minor hiccup.
Which Models Are Affected by the Ford Rearview Camera Recall?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall impacts a range of 2020–2023 Ford and Lincoln models, including:
2020–2023 Ford Explorer
2020–2023 Lincoln Aviator
2020–2022 Lincoln Corsair
2021 Ford Bronco
2020–2023 Ford Edge
2020–2023 Ford Escape
2020–2022 Ford F-150, Super Duty, and Transit
2022–2023 Lincoln Navigator
If you're behind the wheel of one of these, there's a decent chance your ride's on the list. To check if your vehicle is included, jot down your 17-digit VIN and visit:
You can also call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or Lincoln support at 1-800-521-4140.
When Tech Fails at the Worst Time
The issue stems from a defective video output module, which can cause the rearview camera image to go blank or freeze when shifting into reverse.
Now, this may sound like a minor glitch, but it's not. Since 2018, backup cameras have been federally required in all new cars for a reason: they help prevent accidents, especially in driveways, parking lots, and areas where visibility is limited.
Ford says it's already received over 3,400 warranty claims related to the issue. No injuries or crashes have been officially reported, but the risk is real. Especially if you've built a habit of relying on that screen every time you back out of a spot.
What Ford Is Doing to Fix the Problem
Here's the good news: if your vehicle is affected, you won't need to replace any physical hardware. The fix is a simple software update, and for most models, it can be done over the air (OTA) right from your driveway.
For older models or those not equipped with OTA functionality, appointments can be scheduled at local Ford or Lincoln service centers for a manual update.
Ford says it will begin notifying owners by June 17, 2025.
Modern Cars, Modern Problems
This isn't the first time Ford has had to walk back a digital misstep. Similar camera-related recalls popped up in 2021 and 2023. The takeaway? As carmakers pack more tech into vehicles, the margin for error grows thinner.
Even minor software bugs can affect critical safety systems. In the past few years, Ford has recalled more than 10 million vehicles for various issues, many of which are tied to software problems.
This recall highlights a growing issue: today's cars run on software as much as mechanics. And when that software fails, safety is at risk.
In the Meantime, Keep It Old School
Until your car gets the update, do not rely on your camera.
Keep it old school. Physically turn around, check your mirrors, and make sure the path is clear before reversing. It's easy to get comfortable with technology. But until this issue is resolved, your eyes and ears are your best tools.