Massive Recall Hits Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram

Nearly one million Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram vehicles were recalled because a software glitch can blank the backup camera screen, raising crash risk.

Story Snapshot

  • Federal safety documents tie the defect to radio software that blocks the camera feed.
  • About one million model-year 2021–2023 vehicles fall under the recall scope, across many nameplates.
  • The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) flagged increased collision risk from a missing image.
  • Dealers will install a free software update to restore the rearview image.

What NHTSA Said And Why It Matters

Federal recall papers state the radio software may stop the rearview camera signal from reaching the center screen. That breaks a key safety promise: when you shift into reverse, you should be able to see what is behind you. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111 requires that view.

Blocking the image means drivers lose eyes on kids, pets, and posts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration cites higher odds of a collision when the display goes dark, which makes this a true safety recall, not a nuisance.

Regulators and reporters put the count near one million vehicles. The group spans popular models that families and tradespeople drive daily. Reuters reported the scope as roughly one million United States vehicles.

Ward’s Auto laid out model coverage tied to the filing, including the 2021–2022 Dodge Durango; 2021–2023 Chrysler Pacifica and Jeep Grand Cherokee L; 2022 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500; 2022–2023 Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, and Grand Wagoneer; and Ram ProMaster vans.

How The Defect Shows Up In The Real World

Owners may back up, expect the live camera view, and instead see a blank screen. The camera lens is not the villain here. The radio software blocks the video signal before it reaches the screen. That is a systems issue, not a cracked lens or a loose wire.

When software sits between safety features, a tiny bug can defeat a big safeguard. That is why the fix targets code in the radio stack rather than the camera hardware.

Dealers will install a software update at no cost. The update restores the video path so the image appears every time. Reuters reported the remedy as a complimentary radio software update.

Many owners can expect a quick visit, though some brands now push over-the-air updates for similar faults. Stellantis has used software updates in later rearview recalls as well, indicating a steady shift toward code-first fixes across its lineup.

What To Do If Your Vehicle Is On The List

Check your vehicle identification number with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall tool or your brand’s owner site. If covered, book a dealer appointment and ask for the backup camera software update tied to this recall.

Keep your screen clean and your mirrors set until the fix is done. If the display goes dark in reverse, stop and use mirrors and a spotter. The goal is simple: restore the view and eliminate the extra risk of guesswork.

Rear visibility is now a regulated safety feature, not a luxury. That change raises the bar for automakers and suppliers. When software binds cameras, radios, and screens, a missed handshake can mute the picture at the worst time.

Swift recalls, clear notices, and free fixes meet that test. Compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111 is not optional; it is the baseline for trust.

Sources:

foxbusiness.com, detroitnews.com, investing.com, static.nhtsa.gov