Faulty backup cameras are plaguing tens of millions of US cars A Tesla Model 3 hit a cement pole after the rearview camera failed. The driver of a Ford pickup scraped a light post in reverse. A Toyota minivan’s backup display showed old images instead of live ones. These incidents highlight a growing issue with rearview camera systems, as consumers have filed roughly 2,000 complaints with U.S. auto safety regulators. The number of complaints has surged recently, reflecting widespread frustration with glitchy systems. Recalls over faulty backup cameras have also risen sharply since the U.S. mandated the safety systems eight years ago. Automakers have recalled approximately 21 million vehicles in that period, including nearly 6 million just last year, according to a Bloomberg analysis of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data. When including other vehicle types subject to the backup camera mandate, such as recreational vehicles and small buses, the total rises to nearly 28 million, according to NHTSA. These figures underscore the significant challenges associated with backup camera systems, which are among the most error-prone features of modern automobiles. Chris Harvey, senior vice president for Sedgwick, a third-party claims administrator, noted that the complexity of the technology creates more potential failure points. Once an optional feature on high-end cars, cameras are now standard on new vehicles across all price ranges. The mandate originated from a 2008 law signed by President George W. Bush, aimed at reducing pedestrian deaths and injuries caused by backup collisions—particularly those involving children. Beyond safety, cameras also aid in tasks like parallel parking and checking for objects left in driveways.#george_w_bush #national_highway_traffic_safety_administration #tesla_model_3 #ford_pickup #toyota_minivan
