A new recall is shaking up American roads once again, this time it’s Volvo’s turn, the Swedish luxury brand. More than 450,000 vehicles between the U.S. and Canada have a serious software failure: the rearview camera image doesn’t work. This error, even if it seems minor, compromises the safety of anyone near the vehicle when it begins to reverse… And the worst part isn’t that, it’s that this issue was detected four years ago. A problem that could have been quickly resolved and it took four years until the NHTSA started pressuring the brand.
What is the problem?
Basically, the rearview camera doesn’t turn on or function properly when the driver begins to reverse. This issue was first reported in 2021!! But the company decided to wait (for what? We’re not really sure either). It’s been years of complaints until the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) finally forced the brand to step in this past April.
Which models are affected?
According to the official statement, these are Volvo models manufactured between 2021 and 2025:
- XC40
- C40
- S60
- V60
- V60 Cross Country
- XC60
- S90
- V90
- V90 Cross Country
- XC90.
What has Volvo proposed?
Those users affected by this issue will receive a notification before June 24, and the best part is that you won’t need to take it to the dealership if you don’t want to, you can do it wirelessly since, as we said, it will be a software update for the vehicle. And no, it won’t cost you a thing.
Why is this issue important?
Because in the United States it is mandatory for every vehicle to have a working rearview camera. This regulation began enforcement in 2018 and requires that the camera must show a minimum area of 10 feet in length by 20 feet in width behind the vehicle as soon as reverse gear is engaged. And beware, it can only take up to 2 seconds and must display a clear and sharp image. That’s why this Volvo recall draws special attention, because it took years to fix such a simple issue… and it was violating a regulation.
Other similar recalls
Of course, Volvo hasn’t been the only one to face a recall for this error, General Motors has also recalled 500,000 vehicles for engine problems, for example.
The role of the NHTSA
The NHTSA is the agency that coordinates all recalls that occur in the country, its main function is to reduce traffic accidents and ensure that all manufacturers meet minimum safety standards. Thanks to them, this Volvo defect has come to light (because it seems that otherwise, they would’ve waited even longer…)
The NHTSA gathers reports about an issue and initiates an investigation, forcing manufacturers to solve the problem, whether through repair, replacement, or refunding the cost of the defect.
Is it important to pay attention to recalls?
Of course. Even if we don’t like to hear that our cars have defects, recalls are an example that safety checks never stop, something so important every time we put our hands on the steering wheel.
What do I do to know if my vehicle is part of this recall?
Very easy, you can check Volvo Recall 310320 using your vehicle’s VIN number, there it will say whether your vehicle is subject to the recall or not. Remember, you can solve this problem with a software update without setting foot in a dealership. Don’t let it pass you by!