WASHINGTON, DC—Ford has been fined $165 million by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for not recalling vehicles with defective rearview cameras quickly enough. The fine is the second largest in the agency’s history, second only to the Takata air bag consent order.

According to the NHTSA, Ford failed to recall vehicles with defective rearview cameras in a timely manner. The automaker is also accused of not providing accurate and complete recall information as required by the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. The issues were discovered during an investigation by the NHTSA.

“Timely and accurate recalls are critical to keeping everyone safe on our roads,” said NHTSA Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman. “NHTSA is committed to ensuring manufacturers comply with the laws designed to keep our roads safe. When manufacturers fail to prioritize the safety of the American public and meet their obligations under federal law, NHTSA will hold them accountable.”

Of the $165 million fine, Ford will pay $65 million upfront. Another $55 million has been deferred, while $45 million is for performance obligations. The performance obligations will be overseen by an independent third party, which will make recommendations and assess Ford’s compliance.

The consent order between Ford and the NHTSA will last for three years, though the NHTSA can extend it for a fourth year. During this time, Ford must develop safety data analytics infrastructure and an information and document interface platform for internal and NHTSA-initiated safety investigations. Ford must develop and/or update its Vehicle Safety Act compliance policies and procedures. Ford and NHTSA will hold quarterly meetings.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.