Mitsubishi Outlander Backup Camera Recall Affects Nearly 200,000 Models

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

1%—or approximately 1,989—of the 198,940 recalled Mitsubishi vehicles may experience a critical software issue that causes the rearview camera display to freeze or go black.

Mitsubishi Motors North America is recalling certain Outlander and Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) models due to this defect, which can prevent the rearview camera image from appearing when the vehicle is in reverse.

• Vehicles Affected by the Recall: 2022–2024 Mitsubishi Outlander; 2023–2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
• Issue Summary: A software malfunction in the infotainment system may cause the rearview camera image to fail during reverse operation, violating federal safety standards, and increasing crash risk.
• Total Vehicles Recalled: 198,940
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V-369
• Mitsubishi Recall Number: SR-25-001

Why Nearly 200,000 Mitsubishi Outlanders Are Being Recalled

Nearly 200,000 Mitsubishi Outlanders are being recalled due to a defect in the backup camera system that could affect driver visibility while reversing.

The issue involves defective software in the infotainment system that may cause the rearview camera image to freeze or go completely black when the vehicle is shifted into reverse.

This defect violates federal safety requirements under FMVSS No. 111, which mandates functioning rear visibility systems to help prevent back-over accidents.

The safety risk is serious. A blank or frozen rearview camera display can significantly reduce driver awareness, particularly in situations where pedestrians, objects, or other vehicles are behind the car.

Mitsubishi has acknowledged that the problem may result in an increased risk of collision, and it has continued to receive complaints and warranty claims related to the issue—even after prior attempts to fix it.

This latest recall marks the third time Mitsubishi has addressed similar problems in the Outlander lineup over the past three years:

2022 Recall (NHTSA Recall No. 22V-470)

In 2022, Mitsubishi issued a recall affecting certain 2022 Outlander models due to a defect in the infotainment system software that could cause the rearview camera image to fail.

The issue occurred when the vehicle was shifted into reverse shortly after startup, preventing the camera from displaying an image and violating federal safety standards.

Mitsubishi responded by releasing a software update designed to correct the timing logic responsible for initializing the camera feed.

2023 Recall (NHTSA Recall No. 23V-345)

The following year in 2023, Mitsubishi launched another recall affecting 89,907 vehicles, including 2022–2023 Mitsubishi Outlanders and the 2023 Outlander PHEV.

The camera screen in these vehicles could go black if the vehicle was placed in reverse within 40 seconds of being started or if it remained in reverse for more than six seconds.

Mitsubishi again responded with a software reprogramming update aimed at resolving the problem.

After continued investigation and testing, Mitsubishi decided on May 23, 2025, to initiate a new recall.

Common Backup Camera Issues Reported by Mitsubishi Owners

Mitsubishi Outlander owners have consistently reported a range of backup camera malfunctions over the past few years, many of which have led to multiple recalls between 2022 and 2025.

The most common complaint involves the rearview camera screen freezing or going completely black when the vehicle is shifted into reverse.

Timing-related failures are another common issue. Drivers report that if they shift into reverse too soon after starting the engine—typically within the first 30 to 40 seconds—the camera either won’t turn on at all or will only display a blank screen.

This flaw is tied to how the software initializes the camera feed during early vehicle operation. In some cases, even staying in reverse for more than six seconds has triggered a loss of the rearview image.

Beyond the camera itself, broader infotainment system instability has also been noted. Some owners have complained about the entire display freezing or rebooting while the vehicle is in motion.

Although these malfunctions aren’t always directly related to the camera, they often disrupt its function as well.

Reports of lag or delays in camera activation are also common, with some drivers mentioning a noticeable pause between shifting into reverse and seeing the live feed—raising concerns about usability and safety.

According to Mitsubishi, the company has received at least 358 warranty claims and six official field reports regarding these issues.

These problems have impacted multiple Outlander model years from 2022 to 2025 and affect both gasoline-powered and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions.

Although Mitsubishi issued software updates in previous recalls, including efforts in 2022 and 2023, many owners continued to experience the same problems.

These ongoing complaints ultimately led to the broader recall announced in 2025.

How Mitsubishi Is Addressing the Recall

Mitsubishi is responding to the widespread backup camera issue with a multi-step recall plan aimed at correcting the defect, informing vehicle owners, and ensuring compliance with federal safety standards.

Owners of the affected Outlander and Outlander PHEV models can expect to receive official recall notifications by mail beginning in late June 2025.

These letters will provide details about the recall, including instructions for scheduling service appointments and information on reimbursement if the owner previously paid for related repairs out of pocket.

Mitsubishi’s remedy involves a free software update at authorized dealerships. This update is designed to correct the infotainment system bug responsible for freezing or blacking out the rearview camera display.

According to the recall documentation, dealerships will install what Mitsubishi refers to as “countermeasure software” to resolve the issue.

This fix applies not only to newly affected vehicles but also to those previously repaired under earlier recalls, such as the 2023 campaign (NHTSA Recall No. 23V-345).

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has emphasized that vehicles repaired in past recalls will still need the updated remedy to ensure full compliance.

Mitsubishi has confirmed that vehicles built after April 22, 2025, were already equipped with the updated software and are not part of the recall.

For owners who previously paid for repairs related to the infotainment or rearview camera issue, Mitsubishi has outlined a reimbursement program.

Details on how to file a claim are included in the mailed recall notice. The automaker urges customers to retain receipts or documentation of any related service work to support reimbursement requests.

Owners can also check their vehicle identification number (VIN) through the NHTSA recall website or Mitsubishi’s official recall portal to confirm whether their vehicle is included in the campaign.

Can a Backup Camera Defect Qualify a Vehicle as Lemon?

A backup camera defect can potentially qualify a vehicle as a lemon, depending on the specific lemon laws in your state.

While the details of these laws vary by jurisdiction, most follow a similar framework that considers whether the defect substantially impairs the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.

If a malfunctioning backup camera creates a safety risk—especially when reversing—it may meet this threshold.

In most cases, the issue must arise while the vehicle is still under the manufacturer’s warranty.

Additionally, the manufacturer or authorized dealer must have made multiple unsuccessful attempts to repair the problem.

The exact number of repair attempts required can differ depending on the applicable law. Another common factor is the total time the vehicle has been out of service.

If it has spent a significant number of cumulative days—often 30 or more—in the shop for warranty repairs, that could also support a lemon law claim.

Not all camera issues will qualify. If the defect is minor, intermittent, or was quickly resolved, it may not meet the legal standard for a substantial impairment.

Vehicles that are no longer under warranty or have been modified with aftermarket equipment may also fall outside the protections offered by lemon laws.

If you’re dealing with a recurring issue, it’s important to keep detailed records, including service dates, repair orders, symptoms, and all communications with the dealership.

Since lemon law requirements vary, consulting an attorney who focuses on these claims can help determine whether your situation meets the necessary criteria.

Steps to Take If Your Mitsubishi Backup Camera Still Isn’t Fixed

If your Mitsubishi backup camera is still malfunctioning after a recall repair or multiple service visits, it’s important to take the right steps to ensure your safety and preserve your legal options.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Document the Problem: Capture photos or videos that clearly show the issue. Also retain copies of all service records and dealership invoices, especially those that note failed repair attempts.

2. Return to the Dealership: Schedule another repair. Explain that the camera issue hasn’t been fixed, despite prior repairs. If the dealer cannot fix the problem, ask them to escalate the case to Mitsubishi corporate.

3. Contact Mitsubishi Customer Service: Call Mitsubishi at 888-648-7820 or through the website. Provide your VIN, the history of repairs, and a clear description of the continuing issue.

4. Check for Additional Recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Use the NHTSA recall lookup tool or Mitsubishi’s own recall website to see if any new recalls or updates apply to your vehicle. It’s also worth checking for Technical Service Bulletins, which are dealer-issued instructions.

5. Explore Lemon Law or Warranty Claims: If the defect continues to affect the safety, use, or value of your vehicle—and Mitsubishi or its authorized dealer cannot provide a lasting fix—you may be eligible for relief under your state’s lemon law or warranty protections. Possible outcomes include a vehicle buyback, a replacement vehicle, or financial compensation. A lemon law attorney or consumer protection agency in your area can review your case and guide you through the process.

6. File a Complaint with NHTSA: If your rearview camera issue remains unresolved and poses a safety concern, file a formal complaint at nhtsa.gov. Your report can help regulators identify patterns and potentially lead to further investigations or additional recalls.

If your Mitsubishi vehicle is part of the recall involving persistent rearview camera malfunctions, you may be entitled to compensation—especially if the issue has not been resolved after multiple repair attempts.

Below is an approximate chart showing the potential range of settlement values seen in similar cases involving defective camera systems:

*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.

Don’t Let a Defective Backup Camera Go Unresolved: Call Us Today!

This isn’t Mitsubishi’s first recall related to backup camera or software issues. Previous recalls have addressed similar problems, but with nearly 200,000 vehicles now affected by the latest software defect, it’s evident that even established automakers face challenges as vehicles become increasingly reliant on complex software systems.

These recurring issues can leave drivers frustrated and concerned when essential safety features like backup cameras fail to function properly.

If your Mitsubishi Outlander or Outlander PHEV is or has experienced repeat warranty repairs related to the backup camera malfunctions or other repeat issues, you may be entitled to protections under your state’s lemon laws.

Since 2009, our Lemon Law Experts have assisted thousands of vehicle owners in recovering millions of dollars in compensation for defective vehicles. We offer free case evaluations to help you understand your rights and options.

Don’t wait—take the first step toward resolving your lemon law claim today by contacting us for a free consultation.