Recall 26V-205: 2026 Ford Explorer, 2026 Ford Mustang

Ford Motor Company recall for engine and engine cooling, reported to NHTSA on Mar 31, 2026, covering about 278 vehicles.

NHTSA number
26V-205
Report date
Mar 31, 2026
Vehicles affected
278
Owners notified
Apr 10, 2026

The problem

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer and Mustang vehicles. The engine piston circlips may have been incorrectly installed during manufacturing, which can result in piston failure and engine damage, leading to a loss of drive power.

The risk

An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

The fix

Dealers will inspect the engine for missing or mis-installed circlips and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S23. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 2, 2026.

Recall details

ManufacturerFord Motor Company
ComponentEngine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical
Recall started bythe manufacturer
NHTSA campaign number26V205000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Ford Explorer2026All years
Ford Mustang2026All 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-205?

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer and Mustang vehicles. The engine piston circlips may have been incorrectly installed during manufacturing, which can result in piston failure and engine damage, leading to a loss of drive power.

How is recall 26V-205 fixed?

Dealers will inspect the engine for missing or mis-installed circlips and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S23. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 2, 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.