Ford & Lincoln Recall Over 72,600 Vehicles Due to Backup Camera Safety Concerns

Affected Vehicle Models and Model Years

The recall impacts several popular models across Ford's mainstream and luxury lineups:

• 2021 Ford Expedition - Full-size SUV
• 2021-2022 Ford Super Duty trucks (F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600) - Heavy-duty work trucks
• 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair - Compact luxury SUV

Nature of the Backup Camera Defect

The recall addresses a critical safety issue where the rearview camera system may fail to display a proper image behind the vehicle. According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), affected vehicles may experience:

• Completely blank backup camera displays
• Distorted or fragmented video feed
• Intermittent image freezing
• Delayed activation when shifting into reverse

These malfunctions violate Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 111, which mandates proper rear visibility in all vehicles manufactured after May 2018. Backup cameras became required safety equipment on all new vehicles sold in the U.S. as of this date.

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Safety Risks and Potential Consequences

The backup camera issues pose several safety hazards:

• Increased collision risk: Reduced rear visibility makes backing accidents more likely, particularly in crowded parking lots or areas with pedestrian traffic.
• Pedestrian danger: Children, pets, and shorter adults may be harder to spot without a functioning camera system.
• Property damage: Higher likelihood of backing into stationary objects like poles, walls, or other vehicles.

NHTSA research shows that backup cameras reduce backover crashes by approximately 17% overall, making this a critical safety feature when functioning properly.

Current Status and Owner Notification

Ford has initiated the recall process but has not yet developed a permanent repair solution. Key timeline details:

• Official recall number: 25S05 (Ford's internal designation)
• Owner notification date: February 17, 2023
• Interim guidance: Owners should exercise extra caution when backing up until repairs are available
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What Affected Owners Should Do

If you own one of the affected vehicles, follow these steps:

1. Verify your VIN: Check if your specific vehicle is included using MotorVero's VIN lookup tool or NHTSA's official recall database.
2. Wait for notification: Ford will mail official recall notices to registered owners beginning February 17.
3. Practice safe backing: Increase mirror checks and consider having a spotter when reversing until repairs are made.
4. Contact Ford: Reach out to Ford customer service at 866-436-7332 with any immediate concerns.

Technical Background on the Issue

While Ford hasn't released detailed technical information about the camera failures, automotive safety experts suggest several potential causes based on similar past recalls:

• Image processing module failures: The computer that processes camera input may be malfunctioning.
• Wiring harness issues: Corrosion or loose connections could interrupt the video signal.
• Software glitches: The infotainment system may fail to properly display the camera feed.
• Camera sensor defects: The physical camera unit itself may have manufacturing flaws.
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Recall Process and Repair Expectations

When the remedy becomes available, the repair process will typically involve:

• Dealer inspection: Technicians will diagnose the specific camera system failure.
• Component replacement: Faulty parts will be replaced at no cost to owners.
• Software updates: If applicable, the vehicle's systems will receive necessary updates.
• Verification testing: Technicians will confirm the backup camera functions properly post-repair.

Historical Context of Backup Camera Recalls

This isn't the first major backup camera recall in the automotive industry. Notable past incidents include:

• 2021 Honda recall: 1.4 million vehicles for similar blank display issues
• 2019 Toyota recall: 190,000 SUVs for backup camera failures
• 2018 Chrysler recall: 4.8 million vehicles for camera software problems

These recurring issues highlight the technical challenges automakers face in implementing reliable camera systems across diverse vehicle platforms.

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Legal and Regulatory Implications

The recall carries several important legal considerations:

• FMVSS compliance: Vehicles must meet federal rear visibility standards.
• Liability concerns: Manufacturers could face lawsuits if camera failures lead to accidents.
• State lemon laws: In some cases, repeated unsuccessful repairs may qualify vehicles for buybacks.

Consumer Rights and Options

Vehicle owners have several rights regarding safety recalls:

• Free repairs: All recall fixes must be performed at no cost to the owner.
• Loaner vehicles: If repairs require extended downtime, dealers may provide temporary transportation.
• NHTSA reporting: Consumers can report ongoing safety concerns even after recall repairs.

Preventative Measures and Backup Safety Tips

While waiting for recall repairs, drivers can enhance safety by:

• Physically turning to look behind the vehicle before reversing
• Using all available mirrors to maximize visibility
• Rolling down windows to hear potential hazards
• Backing into parking spaces when possible for easier exit
• Moving extremely slowly when reversing in crowded areas
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How This Recall Compares to Other Recent Ford Recalls

This backup camera recall joins several other recent Ford safety actions:

• 2023 Windshield wiper motor recall: Affected 633,000 SUVs
• 2022 Fuel injector recall: Impacted 239,000 Bronco Sport and Escape models
• 2021 Airbag recall: Covered 2.6 million vehicles globally

Industry-Wide Vehicle Safety Trends

The increasing complexity of modern vehicles has led to more technology-related recalls:

• Electronic issues now account for about 30% of all recalls
• Software problems have increased 46% since 2018
• Camera and sensor failures represent 15% of electronics-related recalls

Additional Resources for Affected Owners

For more information about this recall, visit:

• NHTSA Recall Database
• MotorVero Ford Recall Center
• Ford Official Recall Page

Owners with immediate safety concerns should contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236.

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