Ford Rearview Camera Recall Affects Over 1,000,000 Models

Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz

Ford has announced a major safety recall impacting more than 1.1 million vehicles due to a software defect that may cause the rearview camera image to freeze, delay, or fail to display when the vehicle is placed in reverse.

This malfunction significantly reduces rear visibility and increases the risk of collisions, prompting action under federal safety regulations.

The rearview camera issue stems from a glitch in the Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM), which controls the vehicle’s SYNC 4 infotainment system and camera functions.

Because the defect violates Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111, Ford is offering a free software update to correct the problem.

The update may be installed at dealerships or delivered remotely through over-the-air (OTA) updates for eligible models.

Which Ford and Lincoln Models Are Affected?

The recent rearview camera recall impacts a wide range of Ford and Lincoln vehicles. Affected models may experience a malfunction where the rearview camera image freezes or fails to display, potentially increasing the risk of a collision while reversing.

 Ford Vehicles Affected:

• Ford Bronco (2021–2024)
• Ford Edge (2021–2024)
• Ford Escape (2023–2024)
• Ford Expedition (2022–2024)
• Ford F-150 (2020–2024)
• Ford Mustang (2024)
• Ford Mustang Mach-E (2021–2023)
• Ford Ranger (2024)
• Ford Transit (2022–2025)

Lincoln Vehicles Affected:

• Lincoln Corsair (2023–2024)
• Lincoln Nautilus (2021–2023)
• Lincoln Navigator (2022–2024)

Owners of these models are urged to check with their dealer or the NHTSA recall database to determine if their specific vehicle is affected.

What Causes the Ford Rearview Camera Recall Defect?

The 2025 Ford rearview camera recall stems from a software glitch in the SYNC 4 infotainment system, specifically within the Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM).

This module is responsible for managing the rearview camera feed along with other infotainment functions.

When the vehicle is shifted into reverse, the camera image may freeze, appear with a delay, or fail to display entirely.

This issue is directly tied to a malfunction in the APIM software, which disrupts the proper transmission of the camera feed to the display screen.

Because the defect compromises rear visibility, it violates Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111, which requires all vehicles to have a functioning rear visibility system.

Without a reliable camera image, drivers may be unaware of obstacles behind them, increasing the risk of accidents, especially in tight spaces or areas where pedestrians may be present.

To address the problem, Ford is offering a free software update. This update can be installed at authorized dealerships, and for certain models, it may also be delivered remotely through an over-the-air (OTA) update.

Has Ford Released Previous Related Recalls?

Yes, Ford has issued several recalls over the years related to rearview camera defects. These issues have involved both software errors and hardware failures, raising ongoing concerns about the reliability of their rear visibility systems.

1. February 2025 Recall

• Affected Vehicles: Approximately 92,000 vehicles, including:
  • 2021 Ford Expedition2021–2022 Ford Super Duty trucks (F-250 to F-600)
  • 2020–2022 Lincoln Corsair
• Issue: Intermittent blank or distorted rearview camera images
• Cause: Suspected defect in camera units supplied by Magna
• Fix: Replacement of faulty hardware components

2. 2020–2023 Recalls and NHTSA Investigation

• Initial Recall: Launched in 2020 and affected around 620,000 vehicles
• Expanded Recall: In March 2023, an additional 24,000 vehicles were added
• Regulatory Action: The NHTSA investigated Ford for delayed response
• Outcome: Ford was fined $165 million in 2024 for non-compliance and delayed corrective action

These prior recalls reflect persistent issues with Ford’s rearview camera systems, involving both the SYNC/APIM software and camera hardware across multiple model years.

How Will This Defect Be Rectified?

If you own an affected Ford or Lincoln vehicle, consider taking the following steps to ensure your vehicle is repaired properly and to understand your potential legal options if problems persist.

1. Check If Your Vehicle Is Affected

Visit the NHTSA Recall Lookup Tool or Ford’s recall website and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can also call Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332 for assistance.

2. Wait for Official Notification

Ford will begin mailing recall notices on July 16, 2025. A second notice will be sent once the software fix becomes fully available.

3. Determine the Update Method

If your vehicle supports Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, the fix may be delivered remotely and can be installed through the infotainment system. If your vehicle does not support OTA updates, schedule a free service appointment with your local Ford or Lincoln dealership.

4. Get the Software Update

Once available, the update will resolve the issue causing the rearview camera malfunction. The fix is provided at no cost and typically takes a short time to complete.

5. Confirm That the Problem Is Resolved

After the update, test your rearview camera to make sure it functions correctly. If the image still freezes, delays, or fails to display, contact your dealership right away to report the issue and request further service.

6. Know Your Lemon Law Rights if Problems Continue

If your vehicle continues to experience camera-related problems even after multiple repair attempts, you may be eligible for compensation under your state’s Lemon Law. Repeat repairs for a defect that affects safety, use, or value may entitle you to a refund, replacement, or cash settlement. Legal guidance can help you determine whether your case qualifies.

If your Ford or Lincoln vehicle is included in this recall and continues to experience rearview camera issues even after receiving the software update, you may have additional options.

Under state Lemon Laws, repeated repair attempts for the same safety-related defect may qualify you for compensation.

This could include a vehicle replacement, refund, or cash settlement—especially if the issue affects the car’s use, safety, or value.

Every case is different, so speaking with a Lemon Law attorney can help you understand your rights and what remedies may be available to you:

*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.

Reach Out to the Lemon Law Experts for Guidance

Ford’s recent recall is part of a broader pattern of rearview camera-related issues. As of now, Ford has issued 56 recalls in 2025 alone, potentially affecting more than 1.9 million vehicles.

In 2024, the automaker led the industry in recalls alongside Stellantis, which had only slightly more.