Toyota has announced a new safety recall involving more than 144,000 Lexus vehicles in the United States due to a backup camera problem that may cause the rearview image to disappear while reversing. According to federal safety regulators, the issue may increase the risk of a crash because drivers could lose visibility behind the vehicle.

Here’s what Lexus owners should know about the recall and how it could potentially affect their rights under California Lemon Law.

Key Takeaways: 

• Toyota recalled certain Lexus NX, RX, and TX vehicles because the backup camera image may not display while reversing. 
• The issue reportedly involves software and, in some cases, the backup camera itself. 
• Lexus dealerships are expected to perform free software updates or camera replacements for affected owners.

Why Were Certain Lexus Vehicles Recently Recalled?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the backup camera feed on certain Lexus vehicles may become blank when the vehicle is shifted into reverse under certain conditions. Federal regulators stated that the issue may cause the vehicles to no longer comply with federal rear visibility safety standards.

Why Are Backup Cameras Important?

Since 2018, federal law has required all new vehicles sold in the United States to include backup cameras as a standard safety feature since they help drivers see pedestrians or other vehicles behind them while reversing. If the screen goes blank, drivers may lose visibility that could ultimately help prevent a collision.

Which Models Are Affected?

Approximately 144,200 vehicles are affected in the United States, including the following models: 

• 2022-2025 Lexus NX250 and NX350
• 2023-2026 Lexus RX350
• 2024-2026 Lexus TX350

Toyota confirmed the recall also includes non-hybrid models.

What Is Reportedly Causing the Backup Camera Problem?

Some reports indicate the issue may involve a software-related problem connected to the multimedia display system. That said, in some cases, it appears a hardware issue involving the backup camera itself could also be involved. 

As far as what drivers have reported, some have described situations where the camera screen freezes or turns completely blank when shifting into reverse.

How Is Toyota Fixing the Problem?

Toyota says Lexus dealerships will update the backup camera software free of charge. If it’s necessary, dealers may also replace the backup camera itself.

Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed in May 2026. Drivers can also check their VIN through Lexus or NHTSA recall lookup tools to see whether their vehicle is included.

Could These Problems Lead to a California Lemon Law Claim?

The short answer, at least initially, is no. A recall by itself doesn’t automatically mean your vehicle qualifies as a lemon. However, if you purchased or leased your Lexus new or as a certified pre-owned vehicle no later than 2021 and it continues to experience backup camera failures or related electric problems even after multiple repair attempts at the dealership, then that could potentially support a California lemon law claim.

At a glance, the California Lemon Law generally applies when:

• The defect substantially affects the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.
• The manufacturer cannot repair the problem within a reasonable number of attempts.
• The issue occurred during the manufacturer’s warranty period.

Have Questions About a Defective 2021 or Newer Lexus Vehicle?

At Norman Taylor & Associates, we help California consumers handle Lemon Law claims involving 2021 or newer defective vehicles, including recurring electrical problems, software defects, and sometimes even unresolved recall-related issues.

Whether you think you might have a case or just want to see what your options are, call 818-244-3905 or contact us online to speak with a member of our experienced team today!