NHTSA Complaint #11718950 — 2014 FORD FUSION

The rearview camera on my 2014 Ford Fusion has been malfunctioning for several years. When the vehicle is placed in reverse, the camera image frequently does not display, displays intermittently, or fails while already in use. When the system does activate, the image is sometimes mirrored or reversed, making it difficult or unsafe to interpret the surroundings behind the vehicle. Overall, the camera functions correctly in approximately 1 out of 10 attempts, and cannot be relied upon for safe operation. This failure is unpredictable and occurs without warning, creating a safety risk due to the inability to consistently see pedestrians, children, or obstacles behind the vehicle. The vehicle was inspected by a Ford dealership for this issue; however, no remedy was provided because the vehicle was outside the warranty period. I am aware that Ford has issued recalls and extended coverage for rearview camera failures on later model year Ford Fusion vehicles (2015 and newer) exhibiting similar symptoms. My vehicle demonstrates the same defect behavior, despite being excluded based solely on model year. Although rearview cameras were optional equipment in 2014, this vehicle was factory-equipped with a camera, and the failure constitutes a safety-related defect rather than normal wear. I am requesting that NHTSA review whether this defect affects earlier model years, including the 2014 Ford Fusion.