Recall 26V-159: 2020–2026 Ford Explorer, 2020–2026 Lincoln Aviator
Ford Motor Company recall for seat belts, reported to NHTSA on Mar 17, 2026, covering about 561 vehicles.
The problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.
The risk
A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
Recall details
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
|---|---|
| Component | Seat Belts |
| Recall started by | the manufacturer |
| NHTSA campaign number | 26V159000 |
Vehicles in this recall
| Vehicle | Model years | |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026 | All years |
| Lincoln Aviator | 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026 | All years |
Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 26V-159?
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.
How is recall 26V-159 fixed?
Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.