The Recall Desk
HighNHTSA·25V393000·Announced 2026-01-06

Ford Explorer and Aviator second-row seat may unlatch while driving

Ford is recalling 2020-2025 Explorer and Aviator models because the second-row outer seat switch may bind or stick, causing seats to unlatch or fold unexpectedly while driving, potentially failing to restrain occupants in a crash.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: This recall involves a structural vehicle defect that affects occupant restraint during a crash. Although no injuries have been reported, the defect poses a documented risk of injury if seats unlatch during a collision.

Plain-English summary

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2020-2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, causing these seats to unlatch, fold, or slide unexpectedly while driving.

When a second-row seat moves unexpectedly, it may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the occupant's risk of injury.

The recall affects approximately 304,662 vehicles. Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or visit their nearest Ford or Lincoln dealer to schedule the inspection and repair.

The recalled product

Product
2025 FORD EXPLORER
Brand
FORD
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Category
Vehicle
Hazard
  • seat-latch-failure
  • restraint-failure
Affected units
304,662

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Model numbers (2)

  • EXPLORER
  • AVIATOR

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same brand · FORD

Same category