Published · Updated
Ford Motor Company has issued a safety recall affecting approximately 387,911 vehicles. The recall was filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on July 14, 2026 under campaign number 26V451000.
The Defect
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2027 Aviator and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, tipping, or sliding unexpectedly.
The Risk
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters explaining the safety risk are expected to be mailed July 27, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S52. This recall expands Recall 25V393. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
Affected Vehicles
- 2020–2026 Ford Explorer
- 2020–2027 Lincoln Aviator
Source: NHTSA Campaign 26V451000
A recall repair is free — but if your Ford has been in the shop repeatedly, or the fix has not held, you may have a lemon law claim worth far more than the repair. See our Ford problems and recalls hub or Check if you qualify →.
