Tesla Recalls 240,000 Vehicles Over Rearview Camera Failures

Understanding the Tesla Rearview Camera Defect

Tesla has issued a major recall affecting 240,000 vehicles due to a rearview camera failure that may increase the risk of accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a short-circuit in the circuit board could cause the camera display to go blank, making it difficult for drivers to reverse safely.

Affected Models

The recall applies to the following Tesla vehicles:

While Tesla has not identified the exact manufacturing dates, owners are advised to check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) using Tesla’s recall lookup tool or the NHTSA recall database. California Tesla owners experiencing persistent rearview camera issues may have rights under the California Lemon Law, which could entitle them to a refund or replacement if the defect persists despite multiple repair attempts.

How Tesla Is Handling the Recall

Tesla has introduced a two-step solution to address the defect:

Step 1: Over-the-Air (OTA) Software Update

Tesla has rolled out an OTA update designed to detect early warning signs of circuit board failure and potentially prevent complete rearview camera malfunction.

Step 2: Circuit Board Replacement (If Needed)

For vehicles already experiencing the defect, Tesla will replace the faulty circuit board at no cost to the owner. Tesla Service Centers will inspect affected vehicles and perform necessary repairs.

Signs Your Tesla May Have This Issue

Tesla owners should be aware of the following warning signs that could indicate an impending rearview camera failure:

• The backup camera screen goes black when the vehicle is in reverse.
• Intermittent camera failures where the display turns on and off unpredictably.
• Error messages on Tesla’s infotainment screen indicate a system malfunction.

If your vehicle is showing these symptoms, download the OTA update and schedule an inspection at a Tesla Service Center as soon as possible.

Why a Failing Rearview Camera Poses a Safety Risk

A functional rearview camera is a federally mandated safety feature that enhances driver awareness and reduces accidents.

When the camera fails, it can:

• Increase the risk of accidents in parking lots and crowded spaces.
• Make reversing more dangerous, especially in low-visibility conditions.
• Limit driver awareness, particularly in vehicles with Tesla’s large display screens replacing traditional mirrors.

While Tesla’s software update may prevent some issues, hardware-related defects may persist, requiring further repairs.

What If the Recall Does Not Fix the Problem?

Recalls are meant to resolve manufacturing defects, but they do not always work. If your Tesla continues to experience camera malfunctions after the recall, California Lemon Law may offer additional protections.

When Does Lemon Law Apply to Tesla Owners?

Your Tesla may qualify as a lemon under California law if:

• The defect persists after multiple repair attempts.
• The vehicle has spent too much time in service for the same issue.
• The safety defect affects the car’s performance or usability.

Under California Lemon Law, Tesla must compensate California owners if a defect remains unresolved.

What Are Your Legal Options If Issues Persist?

If your Tesla continues to experience rearview camera failures despite Tesla’s recall efforts, you have two primary legal options:

Option 1: File a Lemon Law Claim

A Lemon Law claim can provide a refund, a replacement vehicle, or financial compensation if your Tesla qualifies.

Pros	Cons
Faster resolution compared to class action lawsuits	Requires documentation of repair attempts
Individual compensation (instead of shared payouts in lawsuits)	Tesla may initially resist buybacks or replacements
Tesla covers attorney fees if your case qualifies

Pros
Less effort is required from individual plaintiffs
No upfront legal fees
It may put pressure on Tesla to issue stronger recalls

cons
It may take years to resolve
Compensation is often lower than individual Lemon Law claims

Option 2: Join a Class-Action Lawsuit

A class-action lawsuit may be an alternative route for Tesla owners experiencing rearview camera failures.

Pros	Cons
Less effort is required from individual plaintiffs	It may take years to resolve
No upfront legal fees	Compensation is often lower than individual Lemon Law claims
It may put pressure on Tesla to issue stronger recalls

Pros
Faster resolution compared to class action lawsuits
Individual compensation (instead of shared payouts in lawsuits)
Tesla covers attorney fees if your case qualifies

cons
Requires documentation of repair attempts
Tesla may initially resist buybacks or replacements

Protect Your Rights – Contact Us Today

If your Tesla continues to experience rearview camera issues, do not wait to contact us. You have legal rights under California Lemon Law to seek a refund, replacement, or compensation.

At Gayle Law Group PC, we are committed to helping California Tesla owners fight back against manufacturing defects. Call us today to learn how we can help. Do not let Tesla’s recall delays affect your safety—get the resolution you deserve.