Audi Back Up Camera Recall Issued for More Than 350,000 Recent Model Year Vehicles

Investigations have identified that the rearview cameras can fail intermittently due to electrical interference disrupting the signal between the control unit and the cameras.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a recall of certain Audi vehicles due to a defect that may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying properly when the vehicle is placed in reverse, potentially leaving drivers without a clear view while backing up.

A rearview camera, or backup camera, is an important safety feature that allows drivers to see behind themselves while the car is in reverse. Since at least May 2018, federal regulations have required that all new motor vehicles under 10,000 pounds feature a rearview camera.

Officials warn that without a working rearview camera, drivers may not see other vehicles, fixed objects or bystanders, especially small children who may be in the blind zone, which can increase the risk of auto accidents, serious injuries or death.

While the recall report does not list any accidents or injuries linked to the issue, Audi’s parent company, Volkswagen Group, has still initiated a recall of 356,649 vehicles, noting that certain models fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111, which mandates rear visibility.

The following vehicle makes, models and years are included in the current recall:

Audi first became aware of the issue in December 2023 after receiving field claims that may have involved backup camera failures, prompting the company to launch an investigation the following month. However, the root cause of the problem has not yet been identified.

Ongoing analysis showed that the cameras could sporadically fail due to electrical interference disrupting the signal between the control unit and the cameras, likely caused by insufficiently shielded cable connections.

On December 15, Audi determined that the issue constituted noncompliance and initiated a voluntary safety recall. Owners will begin receiving notification letters on February 17 with instructions on how to receive a free software update.

Audi’s number for the recall is 90TV. Customers may contact company customer service at 1-800-253-2834 or the current recall contact, Dusty Gardner, via email at dusty.gardner@dot.gov.

Owners with any additional questions can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

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