Ford is issuing a recall of approximately 25,000 of its trucks as a safety measure that targets potential issues that might compromise the rearview camera system. The recall also includes some F-250, F-350, and F-450 model trucks manufactured during the years 2023 to 2024. Water ingress may happen at the Tailgate Park Assist Sensor Interface Module (TPASIM) and this poses a potential ris ky electronic malfunction as highlighted in Ford’s recall report.
The concern relates especially to trucks that include a tailgate top camera attached to them, which is distinct from the primary rear view camera. This extra onboard camera located high on the tailgate allows the driver to see more when the tailgate is opened for easier access to the cargo area which is very important for anyone carrying bulky items. In the recall report filed by Ford with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on October 25, they say a certain tolerance in the mating interfaces of some components of the tailgate top camera has caused the problem. Moreover, it has been determined that water gets stuck in the camera bracket during operation, and this is believed to be the cause of the issues with the rear-facing camera.
When exposed to water, TPASIM may lead to the camera displaying either a blue or a black screen or limiting its operation intermittently. Ford indicated that this inconsistent screen functionality can be a hazard for road users since it impairs their ability to view the rear side of the truck. In certain situations, the defect may restrict a driver’s view when engaging in a reverse maneuver which may lead to an increased likelihood of accidents.
Ford is advising all owners of the concerned pickup trucks to go to any Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the repairs carried out free of charge. Ford technicians will fix the misplaced tailgate top camera, wire harness and TPASIM module in the truck. Bundled software will also be uploaded to Image Processing Module A in order to optimize the working of the camera and to avoid any failures in the future.
To ease any hardship due to the process of the recall, Ford is providing pick up and drop off service at select dealerships. A spokesperson from Ford informed FOX Business that the company has also taken other measures aiming to ease the recall burden on the customers. Ford is providing multiple repair options for the recall in order to take care of the problem in a quick manner and minimize the hassle for truck owners.
The manufacturer has not explained whether the recall was due to sales complaints or an actual incident related to the rearview camera. Nevertheless, the carmaker wishes to ensure that this problem does not become an issue by being proactive about it in order to stay the course of its safety policy and avoid such incidents connected with the rearview camera.
