Polestar is recalling 27,816 Polestar 2 electric vehicles in the U.S. due to a backup camera glitch that could leave drivers blind to what’s behind them, raising serious safety concerns. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the recall on May 2, 2025, affecting 2021-2025 models built between July 2020 and November 2024. For EV owners and enthusiasts, this issue underscores the challenges of relying on advanced tech in place of traditional safety features.

Backup Camera Failure Sparks Safety Debate

The recall stems from a “synchronization error” between the Polestar 2’s Parking Assist Camera (PAC) and its infotainment system. Some drivers reported seeing a “camera temporarily unavailable” message instead of a rearview image when shifting into reverse. This glitch, which can completely disable the backup camera, increases the risk of collisions, especially in tight parking situations or when reversing near pedestrians. Unlike the Polestar 4, which lacks a rear window entirely, the Polestar 2 has a glass rear window, offering drivers a fallback option. However, the growing trend of camera-only rear visibility in EVs like the Polestar 4 and upcoming Polestar 5 raises questions about over-reliance on tech that isn’t foolproof.

Polestar 2 Recall Hits 27,816 Evs Over Faulty Backup Cameras: Safety Concerns Mount

A Recurring Problem for Polestar

This isn’t Polestar’s first tangle with backup camera issues. In June 2024, the company recalled nearly 26,000 Polestar 2 vehicles for a similar fault, which was addressed with an over-the-air (OTA) software update. That fix, however, proved inadequate, as the issue persists. The latest recall requires a software update that, unlike the previous attempt, cannot be deployed remotely. Owners must visit a Polestar service center for the free repair, which could disrupt their schedules and erode trust in the brand. The NHTSA notes that customer complaints date back to March 2021, highlighting a slow response from Polestar until federal intervention in 2024.

Industry-Wide Camera Glitches Signal Broader Concerns

Polestar isn’t alone in facing backup camera woes. Major automakers like Ford, Hyundai, Kia, and Jaguar Land Rover have issued similar recalls, pointing to a systemic challenge in the auto industry. As vehicles increasingly integrate complex software and camera systems, synchronization errors and hardware limitations—like the underpowered infotainment head units in some Polestar 2 models—can compromise critical safety features. For EV drivers, who often embrace cutting-edge tech, these glitches serve as a reminder that innovation must be paired with reliability. The Polestar 2’s recall also comes at a tough time, with the model discontinued in the U.S. due to new tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles, potentially impacting resale values and brand loyalty.

EVXL’s Take: Cameras Can’t Replace Common Sense

At EVXL, we love the Polestar 2’s sleek design and zippy performance, but this recall hits a nerve. Backup cameras are a lifeline in crowded lots or when kids are playing nearby, and a “temporarily unavailable” message just doesn’t cut it. The Polestar 4’s no-rear-window gamble might look cool, but if cameras fail, drivers are left in the dark—literally. We’re not saying every EV needs a rear window, but automakers must nail the tech before ditching tried-and-true safety features. Polestar’s slow fix and the industry’s camera struggles suggest it’s time to prioritize bulletproof software over flashy designs. For now, Polestar 2 owners should check their VIN on the NHTSA website and book that service appointment pronto.