The Recall Desk
HighNHTSA·20V598000·Announced 2020-09-30

BMW 2020-2021 Rearview Camera Software Obscures Rear View Image

BMW is recalling approximately 312 certain 2020-2021 BMW models due to rearview camera software that may slightly obscure the rear view image, potentially increasing crash risk if drivers rely solely on the camera.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: This recall involves a critical safety system (rear visibility) with an actual defect that can increase crash risk. Although no injuries have been reported, the hazard is real and directly impacts driver safety, fitting the 'High' category for risk-of-harm products without reported incidents.

Plain-English summary

BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2020-2021 BMW models including the M5, X3, X4, 530i, 540i, M550i, and 550e due to a rearview camera software issue. A portion of the rearview image may be slightly obscured in these vehicles, causing them to fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 111 for rear visibility.

If a driver relies solely on the rearview camera image while backing up, the obscured portion of the view can increase the risk of a crash or injury. Approximately 312 vehicles are affected.

BMW will notify owners of the recall. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, program the rearview camera with updated software. The recall began on November 18, 2020.

Owners should contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 to schedule service. Additional information is available from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or www.safercar.gov.

The recalled product

Product
BMW 530I, X3, X4, M550I
Brand
BMW
Manufacturer
BMW of North America, LLC
Category
Vehicle — Visibility / Rearview Camera System
Hazard
Affected units
312

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Model numbers (7)

  • 530I
  • X3
  • X4
  • M550I
  • 550E
  • 540I
  • M5

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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