Ford Motor Company is recalling 2020 and 2021 Lincoln Aviator SUVs to address a problem that affects the backup camera display. According to Consumer Reports, the automaker says that the image-processing module in these vehicles may intermittently be unable to provide a video feed to the display screen. Because of this, the driver will not benefit from the backup camera when the vehicle is in reverse gear, as required now under the law.
Details of the Recall
The recall action involves 34,975 SUVs manufactured in Ford’s Chicago assembly plant from Oct. 19, 2018, to Dec. 7, 2020. The automaker is not aware of any injuries or accidents related to these recalled vehicles. Ford will begin notifying customers beginning May 19, 2021. When the recall begins, dealers will update the image processing module software, free of charge. For more information, contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.
In October, Ford issued a vehicle defect recall for more than 620,000 cars, SUVs, vans and trucks including their popular F-150 model, because their backup cameras may occasionally go blank or show a distorted image while in use. Ford said that when this happens, drivers might not be able to see people or obstacles behind them, which could lead to a crash. Also, in that case, Ford said the problem stemmed from a malfunction in a circuit board that is part of the backup camera system, which could cause images to be distorted or not show at all when the vehicle is in reverse gear.
Faulty Backup Cameras Can Be Dangerous
At least 50 children are being backed over by vehicles every week, according to the advocacy website, KidsandCars.org, in the United States. Most of the victims in such cases are toddlers between the ages of 12 months and 23 months. Over 60% of back-over accidents involve a larger size vehicle such as a truck, van or SUV. On March 31, 2014, NHTSA announced that it would require all automobiles sold in the United States built beginning in May 2018 to include backup cameras.
When a back-over accident occurs due to defective backup cameras, the automaker can be held liable for the injuries, damages and losses caused. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of these or other vehicle defects, you may be able to seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to remain on your side, fight for your rights and help you secure maximum compensation for your tremendous losses.
Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/lincoln-aviator-recalled-due-to-backup-camera-problems/
