On the Volvo XC40, it is fairly common for the reversing camera to show no image or to drop out temporarily while driving. Volvo recognises this problem and mainly attributes it to a software fault in the camera system, rather than a defective camera. For more background on this type of issue, you can visit the page on Volvo XC40 problems. Curious what exactly is going wrong and how you can fix it yourself? Read on.
What is happening with the Volvo XC40 camera?
Volvo XC40 owners report that the reversing camera image sometimes does not appear as soon as the car is put into reverse. In other cases, the image disappears while driving, followed by a message such as “Camera is temporarily not available”. That sounds alarming, but in most cases it is a software problem that can be resolved without replacing any parts.
Volvo has taken this issue seriously and carried out a major recall in the United States for XC40 models built from 2021 through 2025. The action mainly concerns cars with the Google Built-in infotainment system, where the camera image does not always meet the requirements for rear visibility.
Why does the reversing camera not work on the Volvo XC40?
According to Volvo’s own recall documents, the cause lies mainly in the software for the camera image. That means the camera itself usually works properly, but the system does not pass the images on to the screen correctly. This also explains why the fault is often intermittent. The camera sometimes works without issue for days on end. Then it suddenly cuts out.
However, not every case is purely software-related. Some owners report a loose connector as a possible cause. A defective camera unit can also play a role. If a software update does not solve the problem, have the wiring and the camera itself checked.
Common complaints from XC40 drivers
- The image does not appear as soon as the car is put into reverse.
- The system displays an error message about the camera.
- The camera sometimes remains switched off for the rest of the journey after a fault.
- The camera does not always start immediately when reverse is engaged.
Volvo XC40 camera reset: what can you do yourself?
Would you rather not go straight to the dealer? Then first check a few things yourself. Resetting the system often resolves the fault. This is especially true if it is a temporary software glitch.
- Check whether a software update is available in the infotainment system or through the dealer.
- Restart the system by pressing and holding the central button for a long time.
- Test whether the camera can be activated manually via the menu.
- Check via the chassis number whether your car is covered by the recall.
- If the fault keeps returning, have the wiring and the camera unit checked at the dealer.
Users on forums and Reddit report good results after an infotainment reboot. An over-the-air update also resolves the fault in many cases. This ties in with Volvo’s conclusion that an outdated software version is the main cause.
What is Volvo doing about the problem?
Volvo fixes the fault free of charge with a software update. This update can be installed in two ways:
- at a Volvo dealer, during a routine service appointment or a special appointment for the recall;
- via an over-the-air update, if the car is compatible.
Vehicles with an older software version are more susceptible to this fault, according to Volvo. A newer version should permanently resolve the issue. This is a safety-related problem. After all, reduced visibility behind the car increases the risk of a collision. That is why the repair is carried out free of charge.
‘ It is wise to report complaints every time, even if the fault seems to have temporarily resolved itself. ’
Does the fault keep coming back after an update?
Does the problem persist after a software update? Then the cause may still be hardware-related. Think of a loose connector or moisture damage in the camera unit. A broken cable is also a possibility. In that case, have the wiring and camera unit thoroughly checked at a Volvo dealer. A specialist garage can also help with this.
It is wise to report complaints every time, even if the fault seems to resolve itself temporarily. That way, Volvo keeps track of the scale of the problem. Moreover, as an owner you can make use of the recall, should it apply to your vehicle.
Unsure about other faults with your Volvo, or would you like to know more about common issues with specific models? At Carnews, you will find extensive information about car problems, maintenance tips and real-world experiences from other motorists. Discover more articles about Volvo and other brands on the Carnews website.
Frequently asked questions
The most common problems are that the reversing camera shows no image at all when you put the Volvo XC40 into reverse, or that the camera image suddenly disappears or is temporarily unavailable. Often the camera image starts up late or switches off during the journey and then remains off for the rest of the trip. These complaints are mainly linked to a software fault in the camera system (especially in 2021–2025 XC40s with Google Built-in) rather than a physical defect in the camera itself. Volvo usually resolves this with a free software update via the dealer or an OTA update.
How can I diagnose ‘reversing camera problems’ with my Volvo XC40 myself before going to a mechanic?
First check in the infotainment system whether a software update is available and install it, because many XC40 camera problems are software-related. Then restart the infotainment system (by holding the central button) and test whether the camera does switch on when reverse is engaged or when activated manually via the menu. If it still does not work, look for messages such as “Camera is temporarily not available” and note when and how often this happens. Finally, check via your chassis number (VIN) whether your car is covered by a recall or service campaign, so you can go to the mechanic with this information in hand.
Possible causes are mainly software problems in the infotainment and camera system, but also an outdated software version, a frozen head unit, or, to a lesser extent, a loose connector or defective camera unit. Prevention is possible by always keeping the XC40 on the latest software (OTA or dealer-installed) and by restarting the infotainment system properly when faults occur. If problems recur, have the wiring, connectors and camera physically checked. Finally, check via VIN whether the car is covered by a recall or service campaign and have it carried out as soon as possible.
Yes. For the Volvo XC40 (especially model years 2021–2025), there has been an official recall in which the reversing camera sometimes showed no image or lost the image. The problem proved to be mainly software-related (infotainment/image display) and not primarily a mechanical defect in the camera. Volvo resolves this with a free software update at the dealer or via an over-the-air update, depending on the specification.
What are the typical repair costs for ‘reversing camera problems’ on a Volvo XC40, and is an ‘aftermarket solution’ a good alternative?
