More Than 700,000 Vehicles Involved in Ford Backup Camera Recall

According to Consumer Reports, a Ford backup camera recall has been issued by the carmaker and the vehicle defect affects hundreds of thousands of model year 2020 trucks, SUVs, cars, and vans.

Ford reportedly said in a statement that it issued the recall over a problem caused by a malfunctioning circuit board in the camera. Vehicles affected by the Ford backup camera recall can take their vehicle to a dealership for a free camera replacement.

According to CNet, the malfunctioning circuit board can cause backup cameras to go dark or show distorted or flickering images due to an issue with connectivity between the circuit board and power source. Backup cameras are supposed to have constant images while in use, but CNet says that none of the recalled cameras work properly because they have insufficient electrical conductivity with the internal circuit board.

The vehicles affected by the recall reportedly include 2020 Ford F-150s, Rangers, and Super Duty trucks; Ford Edges, Escapes, Expeditions and Explorers, and Lincoln Corsairs, MKXs, and Nautilus SUVs; Ford Mustang coupes and convertibles; and Ford Transit vans. According to Consumer Reports, there have been no accidents or injuries caused by the recalled backup camera.

CBS News reports that over 700,000 vehicles are affected by the recall; over 620,000 in the United States; 76,566 in Canada; and, 4,302 in Mexico.

Consumer Reports says that Ford will contact vehicle owners starting Nov. 7, 2020.

Ford issued a statement announcing the recall on Sept. 30, 2020. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a safety recall report on the backup camera on Sept. 23, 2020. According to the report, the malfunctioning component was used by the Dearborn Assembly Plant and the Kansas City Truck Plant between October 26, 2019 and May 18, 2020.

How Can Consumers Find Out More?

Consumers can get more information by calling Ford at 1-866-436-7332 or contacting a Ford or Lincoln dealer.

According to CNet, backup cameras are now required under federal law and are helpful when reversing large vehicles, like some Ford trucks. Under the recall, late model Ford vehicles no longer comply with that law.

Not the First Ford Recall

CNet reports that Ford has issued two other recalls this year. Mustang brake pedals were recalled over reports that the pedal bracket could break in a sudden stop.

Additionally, Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty trucks were subject to a recall over potential issues with the welding in the front axles that could lead to steering problems.

Vehicle Safety Defects

Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or accidents attributed to the recalled Ford backup camera; however, not having a backup camera, especially in larger vehicles can present a safety risk for the driver and for others.

CNet reports that nearly every Ford vehicle is affected by the recalled backup camera, putting people at risk of a potential safety defect across the nation. Though Ford owners will be able to have their backup camera replaced at no charge, auto manufacturers are not necessarily required to inform owners of all safety defects in their vehicles.

Further, car makers may not issue a recall or pay for the cost of repair if the vehicle with the safety defect is out of its warranty period or is not covered by the warranty. In addition, while a recall and replacement at no cost may help vehicle owners who have not suffered an injury or accident because of a safety defect, it does not help those who have been injured or even killed.

Vehicle owners who find themselves with a safety defect, along with those who have been affected by a vehicle’s safety defect may qualify for a lawsuit investigation. A vehicle safety defect lawsuit can help recover damages and hold automakers accountable for manufacturing dangerous vehicles and failing to warn the public.

This article is not legal advice. It is presented
for informational purposes only.