Recall 26V-451: 2020–2026 Ford Explorer, 2020–2027 Lincoln Aviator
Ford Motor Company recall for seats, reported to NHTSA on Jul 14, 2026, covering about 387,917 vehicles.
The problem
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 fix
Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters explaining the safety risk were mailed August 19, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Lincoln Aviator owner notification letters were mailed August 21, 2026. 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.
Recall details
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
|---|---|
| Component | Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly |
| Recall started by | the manufacturer |
| NHTSA campaign number | 26V451000 |
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, 2027 | 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-451?
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.
How is recall 26V-451 fixed?
Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters explaining the safety risk were mailed August 19, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Lincoln Aviator owner notification letters were mailed August 21, 2026. 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.
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.