Swedish automaker Volvo is facing a new crisis affecting a large number of its vehicles in the United States, as it announced the recall of more than 413,000 cars due to a defect in the rearview camera system. While this problem is not new to the automotive industry, it once again highlights the critical warning about the increasing reliance on technology in safety and driver assistance systems.
Details of the problem and its impact
According to Volvo’s statements, the defect is caused by a software error code that may appear under certain conditions, leading to the rearview camera image failing to display on the vehicle’s infotainment screen while reversing. This malfunction reduces the driver’s rear visibility, which may force reliance solely on traditional side and rear mirrors during maneuvers.
Although the workaround seems simple-using mirrors-the rearview camera has become a legal requirement in many countries, including the United States, where these cameras must function continuously to meet federal safety standards. Therefore, the camera failure constitutes a violation of these standards, prompting Volvo to initiate the recall.
Affected models
The recall covers a wide range of Volvo models produced between 2021 and 2025, including:
Volvo S60 models 2023-2025 manufactured between June 2022 and June 2024.
Volvo V60 models 2023-2025 manufactured between May 2022 and June 2024.
Volvo V60 Cross Country models 2023-2025 manufactured between May 2022 and April 2025.
Volvo S90 models 2022-2025 manufactured between June 2021 and January 2025.
Volvo V90 models 2022 manufactured in October 2021.
Volvo V90 Cross Country models 2022-2025 manufactured between June 2021 and April 2025.
Volvo XC60 models 2022-2025 manufactured between May 2021 and April 2025.
Volvo XC90 models 2023-2025 manufactured between May 2022 and April 2025.
Volvo XC40 models 2021-2025 manufactured between September 2020 and April 2025.
Volvo C40 models 2022-2025 manufactured between October 2021 and April 2025.
Actions taken by Volvo
Volvo confirmed that it has not received any reports of injuries or accidents caused by this issue, which somewhat alleviates consumer concerns. The company stated that dealers will fix the defect through a simple software update that can be applied quickly and efficiently.
Volvo is expected to start sending recall notifications to affected vehicle owners beginning June 24, 2025, to schedule free maintenance appointments that will include the software update.
Broader context: recurring rearview camera issues
This recall comes just days after Polestar, a Volvo subsidiary, recalled nearly 28,000 Polestar 2 vehicles due to a similar rearview camera problem. This reflects challenges faced by the modern automotive industry with increasing reliance on complex electronic systems and software.
Importance of rearview cameras and potential risks
Rearview cameras have become an essential part of modern safety systems, helping drivers see obstacles and pedestrians behind the vehicle and reducing the risk of accidents during reversing. Failure of these cameras increases the likelihood of collisions, especially in crowded areas or when children or pets are behind the vehicle.
Therefore, recalling vehicles to fix these faults is a crucial preventive measure to protect both drivers and pedestrians.
Advice for affected drivers
Follow official notifications from Volvo regarding the recall.
Schedule an appointment with an authorized dealer to update the software as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, rely fully on side and rearview mirrors when reversing.
Exercise extra caution when reversing, especially in tight or busy areas.
The rearview camera issue in Volvo vehicles underscores the importance of balancing technology with traditional driving methods. It also highlights the urgent need for regular maintenance and software updates to ensure safety systems function properly.
As modern vehicles become increasingly complex and software-dependent, automakers will continue to face technical challenges requiring swift and effective responses to maintain consumer trust and safety.
Tamara is an editor who has been working in the automotive field for over 3 years. She is also an automotive journalist and presenter; she shoots car reviews and tips on her social media platforms. She has a translation degree, and she also works as a freelance translator, copywriter, voiceover artist, and video editor. She’s taken automotive OBD Scanner and car diagnosis courses, and she’s also worked as an automotive sales woman for a year, in addition to completing an internship with Skoda Lebanon for 2 months. She also has been in the marketing field for over 2 years, and she also create social media content for small businesses.
