En U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into the effectiveness of a prior recall remedy for over 27,000 Polestar 2 electric vehicles, following persistent reports of rear-view camera malfunctions. This action highlights ongoing safety concerns in the EV sector, where software updates often serve as fixes for hardware-related issues. According to a Reuters report, the query targets models from 2021 to 2024, emphasizing the need for reliable backup systems in modern vehicles.

Details of the Initial Recall

Polestar initiated a recall in June 2024 for certain 2021-2024 Polestar 2 vehicles due to problems with the rear-view camera. The issues included limited visualization, inoperability, or incorrect functioning when drivers shifted into reverse gear. To address these, Polestar deployed a software update that shortened retry times for camera streams and eliminated map rendering in the driver display during reverse maneuvers. This approach aimed to reduce graphical rendering limitations and improve camera reliability without requiring physical hardware changes.

Us Regulator Probes Recall Fix For 27,000 Polestar 2 Evs Amid Rear-View Camera Failures

Persistent Issues and Consumer Complaints

Despite the software update, drivers continued to experience rear-view camera failures. The NHTSA documented 109 complaints from owners who reported that problems remained even after applying the recall fix. These ongoing malfunctions raised questions about the update’s ability to resolve the root cause. In July 2025, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) met with Polestar representatives to review the complaints. During this discussion, Polestar acknowledged that the software update failed to correct the original defect, prompting regulators to scrutinize the remedy’s adequacy.

Regulatory Investigation and Next Steps

The NHTSA opened the recall query to assess whether Polestar’s solution sufficiently protects drivers from safety risks associated with faulty rear-view cameras. A recall query represents a formal step where investigators evaluate if a previous fix meets federal safety standards. If deemed inadequate, this could lead to mandates for additional remedies, such as further software revisions or hardware replacements. Polestar has not yet responded to requests for comment on the investigation, leaving EV owners awaiting clarity on potential next actions.

Broader Implications for the EV Industry

This case underscores technical challenges in EVs, where reliance on integrated digital systems like cameras and displays can expose vulnerabilities. Rear-view cameras, mandated in U.S. vehicles since 2018, play a critical role in preventing accidents during reversing, with failures potentially increasing collision risks. For Polestar, a Sweden-based EV manufacturer, the query arrives amid market pressures. High interest rates and inflation have dampened demand for its vehicles in several regions, compounded by competition from more affordable hybrid and gas-powered alternatives. However, the company has maintained steady sales in Europe through targeted offers and discounts, demonstrating regional variations in EV adoption.

The investigation also reflects evolving regulatory oversight in the electric vehicle space. As automakers increasingly use over-the-air software updates for fixes, regulators must verify these methods deliver lasting solutions. For Polestar 2 owners, this could mean enhanced safety features in future updates, but it also highlights the importance of monitoring vehicle software post-recall. Industry trends show a shift toward software-centric repairs to cut costs and downtime, yet cases like this emphasize the need for thorough testing to ensure effectiveness.

Overall, the Polestar 2 recall query serves as a reminder for EV enthusiasts to stay informed about safety updates. It points to the balance between innovation and reliability in electric mobility, where technical advancements must align with real-world performance to build consumer trust.