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Campaign 21V096 Posted February 18, 2021 13,858 units

2019-2021 BMW Models Recall 21V096: Rearview Camera

RN
Reviewed by the RecallNotify editorial team
Published May 24, 2026

Recall 21V096 covers 13,858 2019-2021 BMW vehicles for a rearview camera display defect. Repair is free at any franchised BMW dealer.

BMW is recalling 13,858 2019-2021 vehicles, including X3, X5, 330I, and 430I models, because the rearview camera screen can be partly blocked or fail to illuminate when shifting into Reverse. If the driver relies only on that image, the reduced view raises crash or injury risk; BMW dealers will update the software free of charge.

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What's wrong?

The recalled part is the rearview camera software on certain 2019-2021 BMW cars and SUVs. When you shift into Reverse, that software tells the center display what camera image to show so you can see the area behind the vehicle. It is part of the back-over prevention system required by FMVSS 111, Rear Visibility.

On affected vehicles, a software bug can disrupt the camera display when Reverse is selected. The image can appear out of sequence, a small part of the rearview image can be blocked, or the display screen can stay dark. That reduces the rear visibility the system is supposed to provide while backing up.

What you notice is on the screen. When you shift into Reverse, watch for a rearview image that is partly obscured or no camera image at all. The Park Distance Control system still gives audible and visual alerts for objects behind the vehicle, but visually check behind the vehicle without relying only on the camera.

Who's affected?

Spans BMW sedans, coupes, and SUVs across 2019-2021, with the rearview camera software and camera both called out.

2020 BMW M850I Software
2020 BMW M850I Camera
2021 BMW 540I Software
2021 BMW 540I Camera
2020 BMW 330E Software
Units affected13,858
Field incidentsNHTSA has logged no field incidents to date.

A matching year and model does not guarantee inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle.

What's the safety risk?

A missing or reduced rearview camera image can hide objects behind the vehicle. If the driver relies only on that image while backing up, the risk of a crash or injury increases. When shifting into Reverse, visually check behind the vehicle and use the audible and visual Park Distance Control alerts. Repair is free at any franchised BMW dealer.

What should I do?

  1. Check your VIN to confirm your 2019-2021 BMW vehicle is included in this recall.
  2. Contact a franchised BMW dealer to schedule the free rearview-camera software inspection and update that fixes the missing or reduced camera image.
  3. Bring the recall notice if BMW sent one. If not, reference recall number 21V096 when you call.
  4. Use mirrors and look behind you when backing up until the repair is complete.
  5. Call BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 with questions about the recall or dealer scheduling.

What happens at the repair

At the dealer, a BMW technician inspects the rearview camera software and updates it when the inspection shows the update is needed. The software work and labor are free under the recall. If you've already paid out of pocket for a related rearview camera software repair before the recall notice, BMW's standard reimbursement plan covers documented expenses. Bring the repair order and proof of payment to the service desk so the dealer can explain the claim process.

ReimbursementReimbursement available

Timeline

February 18, 2021 Dealer notification began
February 18, 2021 Dealer notification ended
February 19, 2021 NHTSA published the recall
April 12, 2021 VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle.
April 12, 2021 Interim owner notification (was planned for this date)
April 16, 2021 Owner notification mailed

Frequently asked questions

What is recall 21V096?

Recall 21V096 covers 13,858 2019-2021 BMW vehicles with rearview camera software that can obscure part of the image or leave the display dark when shifting into Reverse. BMW dealers will inspect the software and update it if needed for free.

What should I do if my 2019-2021 BMW is on this recall?

Check your VIN to confirm your specific vehicle is included in recall 21V096. If it is, contact a franchised BMW dealer to schedule the rearview camera software inspection and update. Reference recall number 21V096 when you call. The repair is free.

Is the recall repair free?

Yes. Federal recall law requires manufacturers to repair safety defects at no cost. BMW dealers will inspect the rearview camera software and update it if needed free of charge, regardless of where you bought the vehicle.

What is the safety risk?

The safety risk is reduced rear visibility when backing up. If the driver relies only on the rearview camera image, a missing or reduced image view can increase the risk of a crash or injury. Use mirrors and direct visibility until the repair is complete.

What if I bought my BMW used?

The free recall repair still applies. Recall coverage follows the VIN, not the first owner. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific BMW is included, then contact a franchised BMW dealer and reference recall number 21V096.

More information

NHTSA campaign pagenhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/21V096000
BMW customer service1-800-525-7417
NHTSA recall #21V096
NHTSA recall # (full)21V096000

Source documents

This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 24, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →