A widespread safety recall is now underway for hundreds of thousands of Volvo vehicles due to a technical glitch that could compromise driver safety during reverse maneuvers.
The Swedish automaker has initiated a recall affecting more than 413,000 vehicles manufactured between 2021 and 2025, according to documentation submitted to federal safety regulators. The issue centers around malfunctioning rearview cameras that may suddenly display a black screen when drivers shift into reverse gear.
The camera defect explained
When functioning properly, rearview cameras provide crucial visibility of obstacles, pedestrians, and other potential hazards behind the vehicle. However, in the affected Volvo models, the camera display can suddenly go dark when the car is placed in reverse gear, eliminating this vital safety feature.
The software defect is believed to exist in all of the recalled vehicles, creating a potential safety risk for drivers who rely on the camera when backing up. The malfunction effectively renders the rearview camera system useless at the exact moment drivers need it most.
While the issue presents a genuine safety concern, Volvo reports no known accidents or injuries connected to the camera failure at this time. Nevertheless, the company is moving forward with a comprehensive recall to address the problem before any incidents occur.
All 10 affected Volvo models
The recall encompasses 10 different Volvo models spanning multiple years of production. If you own any of the following vehicles, your car may be included in this safety action:
- Volvo C40 (2022-2025)
- Volvo S60 (2023-2025)
- Volvo S90 (2022-2025)
- Volvo V60 (2023-2025)
- Volvo V60CC (2023-2025)
- Volvo V90 (2022)
- Volvo V90CC (2022-2025)
- Volvo XC40 (2021-2025)
- Volvo XC60 (2022-2025)
- Volvo XC90 (2023-2025)
The affected vehicles represent a significant portion of Volvo’s recent production lineup, including some of the brand’s most popular models. The XC40 compact SUV and XC60 midsize SUV have been particularly strong sellers for the brand in recent years, meaning many current Volvo owners may need to take action.
How the recall process works
Volvo is implementing a straightforward remedy for the camera issue. Owners of affected vehicles can have the problem fixed through a software update that will address the underlying programming defect causing the camera display failure.
This update can be performed at any authorized Volvo dealership at no cost to the vehicle owner. Dealership technicians will install the corrected software during a service appointment, eliminating the risk of future camera malfunctions.
For owners of newer Volvo models equipped with over-the-air update capability, there’s an even more convenient option. Many affected vehicles can receive the fix remotely through a digital download, similar to how smartphones receive software updates. This approach allows drivers to resolve the issue without visiting a dealership, saving both time and inconvenience.
Timeline for notification
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received Volvo’s official recall notification on May 1, initiating the formal recall process. According to the documentation filed with regulators, Volvo plans to begin notifying registered owners of affected vehicles by mail starting June 24, 2025.
These notification letters will outline the safety concern, explain the free repair options available, and provide guidance on scheduling the necessary software update. The letters will also include important contact information for Volvo’s customer service department should owners have additional questions or concerns.
What owners should do now
If you believe your Volvo may be among the recalled vehicles, you don’t necessarily need to wait for the official notification letter to take action. Concerned owners can contact their local Volvo dealership directly to inquire about the recall and potentially schedule a repair appointment ahead of the official notification date.
For immediate assistance or to confirm whether your specific vehicle is included in the recall, Volvo has established a dedicated customer service line for this issue. Owners can call Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552 and reference recall number R10320 for the most current information.
Additionally, owners can check their vehicle’s recall status by visiting the NHTSA website and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be found on the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield or on vehicle registration documents.
The broader context of automotive camera systems
This Volvo recall highlights the increasing complexity of modern vehicles and their growing reliance on digital systems and camera technology. Rearview cameras have become standard equipment on all new vehicles sold in the United States since May 2018, when federal regulations mandated their inclusion as standard safety equipment.
The technology has proven effective at reducing backover accidents, particularly those involving children, pets, and pedestrians in driveways and parking areas. However, as with any technology, camera systems can be vulnerable to software glitches and other technical issues that may require correction through recalls such as this one.
Volvo’s prompt action to address the camera defect aligns with the company’s long-standing reputation for prioritizing safety. The Swedish automaker has built much of its brand identity around safety innovations and frequently exceeds minimum regulatory requirements in its vehicle designs.
Industry implications
The scale of this recall – affecting over 400,000 vehicles – makes it one of the more significant safety actions in the automotive industry so far this year. Software-related recalls have become increasingly common as vehicles incorporate more digital technology and computer systems into their designs.
Unlike mechanical recalls that might require physical component replacements, software-based recalls like this one can often be remedied more quickly and at lower cost through digital updates. This trend toward “fixable” software issues represents a changing landscape in automotive safety and maintenance.
For Volvo owners affected by this recall, the inconvenience should be minimal compared to more complex mechanical recalls, especially for those whose vehicles can receive the fix through an over-the-air update. Nevertheless, the situation serves as an important reminder of the need to remain aware of safety recalls and respond promptly when they affect your vehicle.
