As automakers continue packing vehicles with advanced digital features, software has become just as critical as mechanical components—and in 2025, it also emerged as a growing source of quality and safety concerns. This year saw a noticeable increase in recalls tied to software defects, underscoring the challenges OEMs face as they transition toward software-defined and fully connected vehicles.
Modern vehicles rely heavily on complex software systems to operate everything from driver-assistance features to basic safety equipment. While these technologies promise improved convenience and functionality, they also introduce new risks when software integration falls short. Some of the largest recalls of 2025 illustrate how even established automakers are still working through these growing pains.
Ford Motor Co. was among the most affected OEMs this year. In May, the automaker recalled more than 1 million vehicles due to a software malfunction affecting rearview camera displays. The issue caused screens to appear blank or show distorted images when drivers shifted into reverse, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. That recall followed multiple other Ford actions tied to software-related defects, including a recall of roughly 355,000 F-Series trucks and another affecting about 230,000 Bronco and Bronco Sport SUVs for similar problems.
Toyota Motor North America also faced significant software-driven recalls in 2025. In October, the automaker recalled over 1 million vehicles due to backup camera failures attributed to software errors. That action came just weeks after Toyota recalled nearly 400,000 Tundra and Sequoia trucks in September for software-related issues, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem across different vehicle lines.
American Honda Motor Co. was not immune to the trend. In November, Honda recalled close to 257,000 Accord Hybrid models after discovering a software flaw that could lead to a loss of drive power. While incidents of complete power loss were rare, the issue raised concerns about reliability and safety, prompting the automaker to act.
General Motors also addressed software issues this year, recalling more than 41,000 Cadillac Lyriq electric SUVs in June. In that case, a software error could cause the instrument cluster display to go blank, leaving drivers without access to critical vehicle information such as speed and warning alerts. Stellantis’ FCA US division added to the tally with a recall of over 72,000 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks earlier this month, citing software-related problems.
As 2025 draws to a close, WardsAuto compiled a list of the year’s largest safety recalls involving software defects. Together, these actions highlight a broader industry challenge: while automakers are rapidly advancing vehicle technology, ensuring software quality and reliability remains a work in progress. For OEMs, improving development processes and validation testing will be essential to reducing future recalls and maintaining consumer trust as vehicles become increasingly digital.
