Recall 21V223 affects 34,952 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles for backup camera display failure. Repair is free at any franchised Lincoln dealer.
Lincoln is recalling 34,952 2020-2021 Aviator SUVs because the image processing module can fail to send the backup camera video feed to the display. A blank or distorted rear camera image reduces the driver's rear view and increases crash risk, and Lincoln dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The image processing module in the 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator is part of the rear camera system. It takes the video signal from the backup camera and helps send a usable image to the center display when the vehicle is shifted into reverse. That image lets the driver see the area behind the SUV.
On affected Aviators, the software inside the image processing module does not always synchronize correctly with the accessory protocol interface module during start-up. In plain terms, the two modules fail to lock onto the same video signal at the right moment. When that happens, the display loses the camera feed or shows a blue screen instead of the rearview image.
There is no warning sign before failure. The first thing an owner notices is the missing backup camera image when reverse is selected, especially after the vehicle has accumulated mileage or in cold temperatures.
Who's affected?
The 2020 and 2021 scope centers on the Image Processing Module - B, part LC5T-19H423-AM.
| 2021 Lincoln Aviator | Display function |
|---|---|
| 2020 Lincoln Aviator | Display function |
| Units affected | 34,952 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged 1 field incident to date. |
A matching year and model does not guarantee inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific SUV is included.
What's the safety risk?
A backup camera that shows a blank or distorted image reduces your rear view and increases the risk of a crash. There is no warning sign before the display problem appears, so use extra care when backing up and schedule the software update. Repair is free at any franchised Lincoln dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator is included in this recall.
- Contact your nearest franchised Lincoln dealer to schedule the free image-processing-module software update that restores backup camera video.
- Bring the recall notice if Ford mailed one. If not, reference recall number 21V223 when you call.
- Use mirrors and look behind you when backing up until the software update is complete.
- Call Lincoln customer service at 1-866-436-7332 with questions about the recall.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Lincoln technician updates the image processing module software to the latest level so the backup camera feed can display correctly. The recall repair is free, with dealer labor covered. Ford is not offering a separate reimbursement program for this campaign because the original warranty program already provides a free repair for this concern. If you paid for related work before the recall visit, ask the Lincoln service desk how the warranty coverage applies to that prior repair paperwork.
| Reimbursement | Warranty coverage applies |
|---|
Timeline
| March 30, 2021 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| May 14, 2021 | Dealer notification began |
| May 14, 2021 | Dealer notification ended |
| May 19, 2021 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
| May 21, 2021 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 21V223?
Recall 21V223 covers 34,952 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles with image processing module software that can leave the backup camera display blank or distorted. That reduces the driver's rear view and increases crash risk. Lincoln dealers will update the software for free.
What should I do if my 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific Aviator is included in recall 21V223. If it is, contact a franchised Lincoln dealer to schedule the image processing module software update. Reference recall number 21V223 or Ford recall number 21C09 when you call.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. For recall 21V223, Lincoln dealers will update the image processing module software with the latest level free of charge.
Is it safe to drive my Lincoln Aviator before the recall repair?
This recall does not include a do-not-drive instruction. The risk is rear visibility: a blank or distorted backup camera image reduces the driver's rear view and increases crash risk. Use mirrors and look behind you when backing up until the software update is complete.
When were owners notified about recall 21V223?
Owner notification letters were mailed May 21, 2021. If you bought the Aviator used or never received a letter, check your VIN and call a franchised Lincoln dealer with recall number 21V223 or Ford recall number 21C09.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/21V223000 |
|---|---|
| Lincoln customer service | 1-866-436-7332 |
| NHTSA recall # | 21V223 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 21V223000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Misc. Document (PDF)
- Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 23, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →