Car recalls have become much more frequent in recent years because of issues with electrical systems, braking systems, vehicle software bugs and other common issues. Some car recalls are minor and proactive, while others address potentially disastrous problems with specific car parts.
Millions of drivers will be on the road this Labor Day weekend, and it's a great time to assess your vehicle's condition and needs. Here are three of the biggest active car recalls leading up to Labor Day weekend.
Stellantis is recalling more than 844,000 cars
Stellantis owns a huge portfolio or popular automotive brands, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram. It also owns Italian brands such as Maserati and Fiat.
A total of 844,027 Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram models are being recalled because of a rear camera
issue. Some of the popular models that fall under the recall include the Jeep Wrangler, Gladiator, Compass, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and the Ram 1500 full-size truck. Over a dozen models need to be recalled, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
NHTSA says the rearview camera image these vehicles are supposed to produce in reverse could fail, "increasing the risk of a crash."
The automaker can remedy the issue via a radio software over-the-air update that can be performed with or without a dealer free of charge.
Ford Mustangs have a major problem
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American car that's affordable and powerful as well as fun to drive. The Mustang is generally a reliable vehicle, but it does have its issues from time to time.
Ford is recalling more than 148,000 vehicles over an issue with the wiring harness ground connections in 2024-2026 Mustang models. This issue could cause a total loss of drive power, greatly increasing the risk of a crash.
NHTSA says that dealers will replace the engine compartment wiring harness ground terminals for free.
Mitsubishi's most popular model is being recalled
Mitsubishi's Outlander compact SUV and Outlander Plug-In Hybrid SUV are being recalled for one of the most common issues plaguing modern vehicles in 2026. Like thousands of Stellantis models, these SUVs have a rearview camera image problem.
These Mitsubishis may not display a rearview camera image when in reverse. This problem increases the risk of a crash.
2025 and 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander and Outlander PHEV owners must go to a dealer to have this software updated (free of charge). The recall extends to 67,100 models.
Why are car recalls so common?
Vehicle recalls are very common in 2026 for a number of reasons. Modern vehicles feature complex electronics that are susceptible to bugs and glitches. Automakers also tend to source some of their major components from the same brands, so a single issue could impact thousands of vehicles across different brand portfolios.
Thankfully for drivers, many modern car problems can be solved with simple over-the-air updates rather than long and complex dealer repairs. No vehicle is immune to recalls, but a car's history of dependability is an important factor to consider when choosing your next vehicle.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Contact him at CSingh@Gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: These are the biggest car recalls ahead of Labor Day weekend
