CarRecallWatch- Component
- SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
- 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.
- 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.
What this recall means for you
Certain Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator SUVs may have a switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats that can bind or stick. When this happens, the seats can unlatch, tip, or slide unexpectedly.
A seat that moves without warning may not properly restrain its occupant in a crash, which increases the risk of injury. Owners should watch for seats that shift, tip, or feel unlocked.
The repair is free at an authorized Ford or Lincoln dealer, which will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as needed. The remedy is being rolled out in phases by model and model year, with availability expected in January 2027. Owners can check whether their VIN is included through NHTSA.gov, and can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 with questions.
Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle
Official recall notice
Affected vehicles
| Ford Explorer | 2020202120222023202420252026 |
|---|---|
| Lincoln Aviator | 20202021202220232024202520262027 |