Recall 23V165 affects 1,651 2021-2022 Ford Bronco vehicles with 8-inch SYNC screens for a rearview image that stays on. Free update at dealer or OTA.
Ford is recalling 1,651 2021-2022 Bronco SUVs with 8-inch SYNC infotainment screens that were previously repaired under recall 22V-825. The rearview camera image can stay on after backing ends, distracting the driver and increasing crash risk; Ford dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
On 2021-2022 Ford Bronco vehicles with the 8-inch SYNC screen, the SYNC module software controls what appears on the center display, including the rearview camera image. When the Bronco is shifted out of reverse after backing, the display is supposed to leave the camera view and return to normal screen behavior.
On affected Broncos, Ford's earlier 22V-825 repair was recorded as complete, but the software for the 8-inch SYNC configuration did not include the needed fix. The problem is tied to how the SYNC system is configured when the vehicle is used in 4-Low mode. After a backing event ends, the old rearview camera image remains on the screen instead of clearing as required for rear visibility.
There is no warning sign before failure. The issue shows up when the rearview image stays on the display after the Bronco is no longer backing up.
Who's affected?
Scope spans the 2021 and 2022 Bronco model years, with the camera defect tied to Sync Software.
| 2021 Ford Bronco | Camera |
|---|---|
| 2022 Ford Bronco | Camera |
| Units affected | 1,651 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA 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 SUV.
What's the safety risk?
If the rearview camera image stays on after you shift out of reverse, it can pull attention from the road and increase crash risk. Treat the stuck image as a distraction, keep your eyes forward, and schedule the software update soon. Repair is free at any franchised Ford dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2021-2022 Ford Bronco is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised Ford dealer to schedule the free SYNC software update that fixes the rearview camera image staying on after backing.
- Ask whether your Bronco can receive the free over-the-air update instead of a dealer visit.
- Bring the recall notice if Ford mailed one. If not, reference recall number 23V165 when you call.
- Drive with extra attention to the center screen until the update is complete, because the rearview image can stay on after reverse and distract the driver.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Ford technician updates the SYNC module software. Ford also provides the fix through an over-the-air update when the vehicle receives it that way. The software update is free under the recall and is meant to address the rearview camera image staying on after the backing event ends. Ford's standard reimbursement plan covers eligible remedy costs paid by owners before the recall notice. Ford listed May 19, 2023, as the estimated end date for reimbursement eligibility, so ask Ford customer service or the dealer how to submit documentation for a prior paid repair.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| March 10, 2023 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| March 15, 2023 | Dealer notification began |
| March 15, 2023 | Dealer notification ended |
| May 1, 2023 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
| May 19, 2023 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| October 26, 2023 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 23V165?
Recall 23V165 covers 1,651 2021-2022 Ford Bronco vehicles with 8-inch SYNC screens that were previously repaired under 22V-825. The rearview camera image can stay on after backing ends, which can distract the driver and increase crash risk. Ford will update the SYNC module software for free.
What should I do if my 2021-2022 Ford Bronco is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific Bronco is included in recall 23V165. If it is, contact a franchised Ford dealer to schedule the SYNC module software update, or ask whether the over-the-air update applies to your vehicle. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the recall repair at no cost, and Ford's remedy covers the SYNC module software update free of charge. A franchised Ford dealer can complete the update, or Ford can provide it through an over-the-air update for eligible vehicles.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is driver distraction from an incorrect rearview camera display. If the rearview image remains on after the vehicle shifts out of reverse, the driver can be distracted from the forward driving view, increasing crash risk.
When were Ford Bronco owners notified?
Ford mailed owner notification letters on March 28, 2024. If you bought the Bronco used or never received a letter, check your VIN and reference recall 23V165 when you call a Ford dealer or Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/23V165000 |
|---|---|
| Ford customer service | 1-866-436-7332 |
| NHTSA recall # | 23V165 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 23V165000 |
Source documents
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Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF)
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Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
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Download Owner Notice (PDF)
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Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
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Download Misc. Document (PDF)
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Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF)
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Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
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Download Recall Report (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 20, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →