Mercedes-Benz is known for high-performance luxury cars and SUVs. Its A-Class ranks as one of the best cars, and the GLE-Class boasts praise as one of the safest luxury SUVs. But that doesn’t mean Mercedes-Benz vehicles are immune to problems. In fact, the German automaker recalled over 12,000 models earlier this year due to an issue with the front seat.

However, that’s a small recall compared to the latest one, involving 342,000 SUVs and cars due to problems with their backup cameras.

What’s wrong with Mercedes-Benz backup cameras?

The problem stems from a software glitch that prevents the backup camera‘s feed from displaying on the infotainment screen or causes the system to reboot. It leaves drivers with a blank screen while reversing, The Car Connection reports. This is a fairly significant problem because it not only increases the risk of crash or injury but also means these vehicles aren’t in compliance with federal safety standards.

Mercedes-Benz is not the only automaker that has issued recalls for problems with backup cameras. BMW, Ford, and Honda have all announced recalls for similar issues. In fact, since 2019, automakers have recalled over 3 million vehicles due to backup camera problems.

Which Mercedes-Benz models are affected, and how will the automaker fix the glitch?

The recall affects multiple 2019 to 2021 Mercedes-Benz models. According to Consumer Reports, they’re the A-Class, AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, CLA Class, CLS Class, GLA Class, GLB Class, GLC Class, GLE Class, GLS Class, and E-Class sedan, coupe, and convertible.

However, the good news is that the software glitch can be fixed relatively easily. If you have a Mercedes and Me subscription, you don’t even have to go to a dealership. Instead, you can get the software update through an over-the-air update. Owners without a subscription must take their affected vehicles to a Mercedes-Benz dealership for the update.

When will the recall begin, and should you contact the automaker and/or the NHTSA?

Mercedes-Benz will begin officially notifying owners on July 13. This doesn’t mean you have to wait until then to get your vehicle fixed. You can call Mercedes-Benz customer service toll-free at 800-367-6373 if your vehicle is one of the affected models. You can also go to the NHTSA‘s website and enter your VIN to see if your vehicle has any active recalls.

Backup cameras have become standard safety features on even the most basic new cars. They have drastically improved safety when backing up, lowering crashes, injuries, and deaths. In fact, cars made since May 1, 2018, are mandated by the U.S. government to have a working backup camera. And don’t worry if your car was made before then and doesn’t have a backup camera — you can add one, and the cost is fairly cheap. 

If you own one of the affected Mercedes-Benz models — and chances are you do because the recall encompasses over 70 percent of the brand’s lineup since 2019 — you should get the software update right away. Though a non-working backup camera isn’t ideal and can actually be quite dangerous, the fix is relatively easy.