Rivian Recalls 99,000 Vehicles Over Backup Camera Software
Rivian has issued a recall for nearly 99,000 vehicles, including its new R2 model, because a software pop-up can block the backup camera view.
Rivian is recalling nearly 99,000 vehicles, including its newest R2 model, due to a software issue that can obstruct the backup camera. The recall, filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), covers the entire current lineup of R1T, R1S, and R2 vehicles.
According to the recall filing, a specific sequence of actions can cause a safety message to appear over the live camera feed. This happens if a driver shifts into reverse while the vehicle's stability control system is disabled. The resulting pop-up instructs the driver to re-enable stability control but, in doing so, blocks the rearview image.
While this scenario may seem niche, it violates federal safety standards. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards require that a backup camera image must activate within two seconds of shifting into reverse and remain unobstructed. Rivian's software pop-up reportedly blocked the view until the vehicle began moving.
Scope of the Recall
The recall affects a significant number of vehicles built over several years. This marks the first official recall for the R2 model since deliveries began in June.
| Model | Units Affected | Production Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Rivian R1S | 62,259 | March 2022 through August 2026 |
| Rivian R1T | 34,088 | August 2021 through July 2026 |
| Rivian R2 | 2,481 | April 2024 through August 2024 |
A Simple Software Fix
The remedy for this safety defect is straightforward. Rivian will deploy an over-the-air software update to correct the issue. The company reports that a large majority of affected vehicles have already received the fix. Approximately 95% of the recalled R1 vehicles and 96% of the R2 vehicles already have the update installed.
This recall is separate from other camera-related complaints some Rivian owners have recently voiced. On forums like Reddit, some drivers have reported that a recent software update made camera feeds feel laggy or of poor quality, with some cameras freezing or launching slowly. The NHTSA recall does not address those general performance issues. However, the agency could launch a separate investigation if those complaints are found to pose a safety hazard or fall outside regulatory specifications.
For now, the focus is on the specific pop-up obstruction. Rivian is notifying owners of the nearly 99,000 affected trucks and SUVs about the software update.
