NHTSA Recall 26V451000: Mid/rear assembly (seats)
Ford Motor Company reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 387,911 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the Ford Explorer.
| NHTSA campaign | 26V451000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | 26S52 |
| Component | SEATS › MID/REAR ASSEMBLY |
| Report received | July 14, 2026 |
| Owner notification | August 21, 2026 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
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.
Safety risk
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
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.
Vehicles covered by recall 26V451000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026 |
| Lincoln Aviator | 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027 |
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.