Ford Recalls 1.1 Million Vehicles Over Rearview Camera Glitch

Ford Motor Company has initiated a significant recall involving approximately 1.1 million vehicles due to a critical software error in the rearview camera system. This glitch affects models released between 2021 and 2025, including electric and hybrid vehicles, and poses safety risks by potentially causing the rearview camera video feed to delay, freeze, or fail to display when the vehicle is in reverse.

The rearview camera is a vital safety feature that helps drivers avoid collisions and property damage while reversing. A malfunction in this system can increase the likelihood of accidents, as evidenced by at least one reported incident involving minor property damage linked to this software issue.

The recall was prompted after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received multiple complaints about the problem in 2021-2023 Ford F-150 models. Ford is responding by offering a free software update to fix the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software responsible for the glitch.

Vehicle owners will receive interim notification letters starting June 16, 2025, outlining the safety risk. The actual software fix will be available in the third quarter of 2025, either through dealership service or over-the-air updates, ensuring a convenient and cost-free remedy.

The recall covers a wide range of Ford and Lincoln models, including:

• Lincoln Nautilus and Mach-E (2021-2023)
• Bronco, F-150, and Edge (2021-2024)
• Escape, Corsair, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, and F-600 (2023-2024)
• Expedition and Navigator (2022-2024)
• Transit (2021-2025)
• Ranger and Mustang (2024)

Owners with questions can contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline or visit their website for further assistance. This recall highlights the growing importance of software reliability in modern vehicles, where even minor glitches can have significant safety implications.

As vehicles become increasingly software-driven, proactive monitoring and rapid response to software defects are critical. Ford’s recall serves as a reminder that automotive manufacturers must prioritize robust software development and update mechanisms to ensure driver safety and maintain consumer trust.