Based on the 2025–2026 inspection data and recent federal recalls, Polestar vehicles (particularly the Polestar 2 and the new Polestar 3/4) face specific challenges related to their Volvo-derived hardware and Google-based software.
Here are 5 labels for Polestar Common Issues & Recalls:
Rearview Camera "Ghosting" (Recall),
Cause: A synchronization error between the Parking Assist Camera (PAC) and the Intel-based Infotainment Head Unit (IHU). Despite two previous recall attempts, the software fails to prioritize the video feed when shifting into reverse.
Solution: A massive 2025–2026 recall ($RP1069$) requires a new software package designed to maintain a permanent high-speed signal connection rather than toggling it on/off. A hardware CPU upgrade to Snapdragon is also being offered for 2026 models.
Axle "Clicking" & Driveshaft Lash,
Cause: Wear in the constant velocity (CV) joints or driveshaft splines, often appearing between 15k and 30k miles, resulting in a distinct clicking sound during low-speed maneuvers or when shifting from R to D.
Solution: Dealers replace the affected rear axles or halfshafts with reinforced parts. Out-of-warranty owners often opt for "lifetime warranty" replacement parts to avoid recurring labor costs.
TCAM Connectivity Blackouts,
Cause: The Telematics and Connectivity Antenna Module (TCAM) software crashes, leading to a total loss of GPS, LTE, and digital key functionality. In some cases, the dedicated backup battery for the TCAM fails, preventing a remote reset.
Solution: A "hard reset" of the TCAM by disconnecting the 12V and backup batteries, followed by an Over-the-Air (OTA) update to version $P3.1.9$ or later, which includes stability patches for the connectivity logic.
Ohlins Damper Seizing (Performance Pack),
Cause: The high-end manual-adjustable Ohlins dampers are prone to internal seal failure or "knocking" sounds if the gold adjustment knobs are not periodically turned to prevent road salt and grit from seizing the threads.
Solution: Professional cleaning and lubrication of the adjustment threads. If the damper is leaking fluid, it requires a full replacement, which can cost upwards of $3,000 per corner outside of the 4-year warranty.
HVAC Damper Motor "Ticking",
Cause: The small plastic gears in the HVAC blend door actuators (damper motors) behind the dashboard can slip or break, causing a repetitive "clicking" sound as the car attempts to regulate cabin temperature.
Solution: Calibration of the HVAC system via the "Service Menu" to reset the motor positions. If the clicking persists, the specific actuator motor must be replaced, which often requires significant dashboard disassembly.
Labels List Only
Rearview Camera "Ghosting" (Recall),
Axle "Clicking" & Driveshaft Lash,
TCAM Connectivity Blackouts,
Ohlins Damper Seizing (Performance Pack),
HVAC Damper Motor "Ticking",
Would you like me to find the local Polestar Service Points near you that can perform the 2026 CPU upgrade?
