The Recall Desk
HighNHTSA·26V121000·Announced 2026-03-03

2025-2026 Ford Explorer vehicles recalled for headlight control module software defect

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2025-2026 Explorer vehicles because the headlight system software may cause the passenger-side headlight to turn in the wrong direction during curves.

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: The recall involves a safety-related defect that increases the risk of a crash due to improper lighting, though no injuries or fatalities have been reported.

Plain-English summary

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2025 and 2026 Ford Explorer vehicles due to a software issue in the Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) system. This defect may cause the passenger-side headlight to turn in the wrong direction when the vehicle is driving through curves.

A headlight that turns incorrectly can increase glare for other road users, which increases the risk of a crash. This defect means the vehicles do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108 regarding lamps and reflective devices.

To remedy this, Ford dealers will update the headlight control module software for free, or the update may be provided via an over-the-air (OTA) update. Owners were notified by mail on March 23, 2026.

The recalled product

Product
FORD EXPLORER
Brand
FORD
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Category
Vehicle — Automotive
Hazard
Affected units
35,772

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 (1)

  • EXPLORER

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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