Software Flaw Forces Recall of 2020-2021 Ford Explorer, Lincoln Aviator and Corsair

The video image in versions with the 360-degree cameras may fail, preventing drivers from seeing what is behind them

Jon Linkov, Consumer Reports Autos Editor.

By Jon Linkov
Autos Editor

September 29, 2021

More than 228,000 Ford Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Corsair SUVs from the 2020 and 2021 model years are being recalled to fix a faulty backup camera.

A software problem could prevent the backup camera’s image from displaying on the infotainment screen inside the vehicle when Reverse is engaged. This risks the driver backing over a person or an object because they could not see what is behind the vehicle.

This recall affects only vehicles that are equipped with the 360-degree camera. Models that have just a rearview camera are not impacted.

Documents from Ford and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration state that the automaker is aware of two reported crashes, and it is not aware of any injuries from this condition.

The Details

Vehicles recalled: 228,297 Ford and Lincoln SUVs from the 2020 and 2021 model years:

165,191 Ford Explorer models
46,098 Lincoln Aviator models
17,008 Lincoln Corsair models

The problem: The feed from one or more of the cameras in the 360-degree camera system may not properly display on the center screen, which could prevent the driver from seeing what is behind the vehicle when reversing. Once this happens, the problem is likely to recur on the same camera.

The fix: Ford and Lincoln dealers will update vehicle software, free of charge.

How to contact the manufacturer: Ford is expected to notify owners by mail beginning Oct. 7, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332.

NHTSA campaign number: 21V735. Ford’s internal number is 21S44.

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.

Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle using our Car Recall Tracker. Create a free account now to become a CR member.

Jon Linkov

Jon Linkov is the deputy auto editor at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2002, covering varied automotive topics including buying and leasing, maintenance and repair, ownership, reliability, used cars, and electric vehicles. He manages CR’s lineup of special interest publications, hosts CR’s “Talking Cars” podcast, and writes and edits content for CR’s online and print products. An avid cyclist, Jon also enjoys driving his ’80s-era sports car and instructing at track days.