Stellantis Recalls Nearly One Million Vehicles Globally Over Rearview Camera Software Glitch
Auburn Hills, Michigan – Automotive giant Stellantis, parent company of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram, announced a significant global recall on Monday affecting nearly one million vehicles due to a software malfunction that could prevent rearview cameras from displaying images properly. This widespread issue poses a potential safety hazard, as clear rear visibility is crucial for safe vehicle operation.
The recall impacts approximately 955,000 vehicles worldwide. A substantial portion of these, over 848,000, are located in the United States. The affected models span several prominent brands and model years, including various 2026 and 2027 Chrysler Pacifica, Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid, and Voyager models; Dodge Charger; Jeep Cherokee, Compass, Gladiator, Grand Cherokee, Grand Wagoneer, and Wrangler; and Ram 1500, 2500, and ProMaster vehicles.
Beyond the U.S., the recall extends to approximately 107,000 vehicles in other markets. This includes nearly 83,000 vehicles in Canada, 8,000 in Mexico, and an additional 16,000 in various markets outside of North America.
The core of the problem lies with the radio software, which, when malfunctioning, can obscure or completely prevent the display of images from the rearview camera. Stellantis has advised drivers who experience this issue to rely on their traditional rearview and side mirrors when reversing their vehicles, emphasizing caution until the software is updated.
Fortunately, Stellantis has confirmed that, at present, they are unaware of any accidents or injuries directly linked to this specific rearview camera defect. This proactive recall aims to mitigate any potential risks before such incidents occur.
Rectification of the issue will be straightforward for vehicle owners. Stellantis plans to deliver an over-the-air (OTA) radio software update. Owners will be notified via their vehicle’s media screen when the update becomes available for download and installation. Further, official recall notices containing detailed information and instructions will be mailed to affected owners starting next month.
This recall highlights the increasing reliance on advanced technological features in modern vehicles and the importance of their flawless operation for safety. The National Highway Traffic Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) previously mandated rear-visibility technology in new vehicles weighing under 10,000 pounds by May 2018. This regulation was a direct response to alarming statistics, with an average of 210 deaths and 15,000 injuries annually in the U.S. attributed to back-over crashes involving light vehicles. Notably, children under the age of five accounted for a significant 31% of these tragic fatalities.
The proactive measure by Stellantis underscores the automotive industry’s commitment to vehicle safety and adhering to regulatory standards, ensuring that drivers have reliable tools to navigate their surroundings safely. Owners of the affected vehicles are encouraged to follow the instructions provided by Stellantis to ensure their vehicles receive the necessary software update promptly.
