What the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV backup camera recall covers
Mitsubishi issued a recall for certain Outlander PHEV models because the backup camera image may not display on the in-vehicle screen, or may display a black screen instead of the camera feed. This happens because of a software issue in the infotainment system, not a hardware failure. The recall affects model years 2022 through 2024 Outlander PHEVs manufactured before a certain date, though the exact cutoff date varies by production batch.
The backup camera itself works fine — the problem is that the system controlling what appears on your dashboard screen has a glitch. When you shift into reverse, you should see a live feed from the rear camera to help you back up safely. If the screen stays black or doesn't show the camera image, you lose that visual aid, which is why Mitsubishi classified this as a safety issue.
Mitsubishi dealers will fix this by updating the infotainment software at no cost to you. The update takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and you do not need to leave your vehicle overnight. Once the software is updated, the backup camera display should work normally.
Key Takeaways
- The recall affects 2022–2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV models with a software glitch that prevents the backup camera image from showing on the dashboard screen.
- Mitsubishi dealers perform the fix by updating the infotainment system software, which takes about 30 minutes to an hour and costs nothing.
- You can find out whether your specific vehicle is included by checking the NHTSA website with your vehicle identification number (VIN) or contacting a Mitsubishi dealer directly.
- The recall does not affect the backup camera hardware itself — only the software that displays the image inside your vehicle.
How to check if your Outlander PHEV is part of the recall
The fastest way to find out is to visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website at safercar.gov. On that site, you can enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) — a 17-character code found on your registration documents, insurance card, or on the driver's side of your windshield where it meets the dashboard. The NHTSA database will show you every open recall for that specific vehicle.
If you do not have your VIN handy or prefer to speak with someone directly, call your local Mitsubishi dealer and give them your VIN over the phone. They can tell you in minutes whether your vehicle is included in this recall and whether the software update has already been performed on your car.
You can also search the NHTSA site by manufacturer and model year without a VIN to see the recall details, but you will not know whether your individual vehicle is affected until you provide the VIN.
What happens when you take your vehicle to the dealer
Schedule an appointment with a Mitsubishi dealer — you can do this by phone or through their website. When you arrive, tell the service advisor that you are there for the backup camera recall software update. The technician will connect your vehicle to a diagnostic computer and upload the new software to the infotainment system. This process typically takes 30 minutes to one hour.
You can wait in the dealer's waiting area during the update, or some dealers may offer a loaner vehicle if you prefer to leave. Once the software update is complete, the technician will test the backup camera to confirm it displays correctly before you drive away.
There is no charge for this recall repair. Mitsubishi covers the entire cost, including parts and labor. If a dealer tries to charge you for this work, contact Mitsubishi customer service to report it.
What to do if your dealer says the recall has already been done
Some Outlander PHEVs may have received the software update before the official recall was issued — either during a previous service visit or at the dealership before you purchased the vehicle. If your dealer checks their records and confirms the update has already been installed, you do not need to do anything further.
Ask the dealer to document in writing that the recall software update has been completed on your vehicle. Keep this paperwork with your maintenance records. If you sell the vehicle later, this documentation shows the next owner that the recall work was done.
What to do if the backup camera still does not work after the update
If you have the software update installed but the backup camera display is still black or not working, contact your Mitsubishi dealer again. There may be a separate hardware issue — such as a faulty camera, wiring problem, or display screen malfunction — that requires additional diagnosis. The dealer can run diagnostics to identify what is causing the problem and repair it under warranty.
If your vehicle is still under the factory warranty (typically three years or 36,000 miles from the original purchase date), any repairs needed beyond the software update should be covered at no cost. If your warranty has expired, ask the dealer for a repair estimate before authorizing any work.
Understanding why this recall happened
Software glitches in vehicle infotainment systems are common because these systems run complex code that controls many functions — the backup camera display, navigation, audio, climate controls, and phone connectivity all run through the same computer. When Mitsubishi tested the 2022–2024 Outlander PHEV models, they discovered that a bug in the backup camera software could cause the display to fail. Rather than wait for customers to report the problem, they issued a recall to fix it proactively.
This type of recall is different from a mechanical failure. There is nothing wrong with your backup camera hardware or the wiring. The issue is purely in the software code, which is why the fix is a straightforward software update rather than a replacement part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to take my car to the dealer, or can I update the software myself?
You must take your vehicle to a Mitsubishi dealer. The software update requires specialized diagnostic equipment and access to Mitsubishi's find software servers. You cannot read the update yourself or have an independent mechanic perform it.
Will the software update affect any other features in my vehicle?
No. The update only fixes the backup camera display software. It does not change how your navigation, audio system, climate controls, or any other features work. The update is designed specifically to address the camera display glitch.
What if I bought my Outlander PHEV used and do not know if the recall was done?
Contact a Mitsubishi dealer with your VIN, and they can check their records to see whether the software update was performed. If it has not been done, you can schedule an appointment to have it completed at no cost, even though you are not the original owner.
Can I drive my vehicle safely if the backup camera is not working?
You can drive forward normally — the backup camera only affects reverse. When backing up, you lose the visual aid from the camera, so you will need to rely on your mirrors and be extra cautious. It is safer to have the camera working, which is why getting the software update is worthwhile.