Recall 26V212 covers 276,879 2023-2025 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles with distorted or blank rearview camera images. Repair is free at any franchised Chevrolet dealer.
Chevrolet is recalling 276,879 2023-2025 Malibu sedans because the rearview camera screen can show a distorted or blank image. When the image does not display correctly, the driver has less view behind the vehicle, which increases the risk of a crash; Chevrolet dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The rearview camera on the 2023-2025 Chevrolet Malibu is mounted at the back of the car and sends the driver a view behind the vehicle when reverse is selected. It is part of the back-over prevention system, which helps the driver see people, objects, and the path behind the Malibu while backing up.
On affected Malibu vehicles, the camera housing was not bonded strongly enough during assembly. The housing is the shell that protects the camera electronics from water and road spray. Because of the way this camera is mounted on the Malibu, moisture can reach a weak bond, get inside the housing, and interfere with the camera signal. When that happens, the display can show a distorted image or go blank.
There is no warning sign before failure. The owner notices the problem when the rearview camera image looks distorted, flickers, or does not appear when the vehicle is shifted into reverse.
Who's affected?
Covers Malibu sedans from the 2023, 2024, and 2025 model years, all using the same rearview camera part.
| 2025 Chevrolet Malibu | Camera |
|---|---|
| 2023 Chevrolet Malibu | Camera |
| 2024 Chevrolet Malibu | Camera |
| Units affected | 276,879 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged 19117 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 sedan.
What's the safety risk?
The camera problem can leave the rearview image missing or incorrect, reducing the driver's view behind the Malibu and increasing the risk of a crash. Use mirrors and look over your shoulder when backing up, and schedule the rearview camera replacement promptly. Repair is free at any franchised Chevrolet dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2023-2025 Chevrolet Malibu is included in this recall.
- Contact your nearest franchised Chevrolet dealer to schedule the free rearview-camera replacement that fixes the distorted or blank backup image.
- Bring the recall notice if Chevrolet mailed one. If not, reference recall number 26V212 when you call.
- Use extra care when backing up until the repair is complete. Check mirrors and surroundings before moving.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Chevrolet technician replaces the rearview camera so the Malibu's display can show a clear rear image when the vehicle is backing up. The recall repair is free now at a Chevrolet dealer, and parts and labor are covered. If you already paid out of pocket for a related rearview camera repair before the recall notice, ask Chevrolet customer service or the dealer service desk how to submit documentation under the manufacturer's standard reimbursement plan.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| April 2, 2026 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| April 2, 2026 | Dealer notification began |
| April 2, 2026 | Dealer notification ended |
| April 2, 2026 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| May 20, 2026 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 26V212?
Recall 26V212 covers 276,879 2023-2025 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles with a rearview camera screen that can show a distorted or blank image. That reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle and increases crash risk. Chevrolet dealers will replace the rearview camera for free.
What should I do if my 2023-2025 Chevrolet Malibu is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific Malibu is included in recall 26V212. If it is, contact a franchised Chevrolet dealer to schedule the rearview camera replacement. Reference recall number 26V212 or GM recall number N262551720 when you call. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. Chevrolet dealers will replace the affected rearview camera free of charge, including parts and labor, regardless of where you bought the Malibu.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is reduced rear visibility when backing up. If the rearview camera image is blank or distorted, the driver loses part of the view behind the Malibu, increasing crash risk under NHTSA campaign 26V212. Use mirrors and direct visual checks until the repair is complete.
What if I bought my Chevrolet Malibu used?
The free recall repair still applies. Recall eligibility follows the VIN, not the original owner. Check your VIN to confirm whether your Malibu is included, then call a franchised Chevrolet dealer or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 with recall number 26V212.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/26V212000 |
|---|---|
| Chevrolet customer service | 1-800-222-1020 |
| NHTSA recall # | 26V212 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 26V212000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Report (PDF) - Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 19, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →