The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereNHTSA·26V451000·Announced 2026-07-14

Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles recalled for seat unlatching risk

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2020-2027 Aviator and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles because the second-row seat switch may cause seats to move unexpectedly.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).

The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural/mechanical defect where a seat may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, posing a significant risk of injury.

Plain-English summary

Ford Motor Company is recalling specific 2020-2027 Lincoln Aviator and 2020-2026 Ford Explorer models. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, which can cause the seats to unlatch, tip, or slide unexpectedly.

A seat that moves unexpectedly may fail to properly restrain an occupant during a crash, which increases the risk of injury.

Ford dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary at no charge. Owners can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for more information.

The recalled product

Product
LINCOLN, FORD AVIATOR, EXPLORER
Brand
LINCOLN
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Category
Vehicle — Seats
Hazard
Affected units
387,911

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)

  • AVIATOR
  • EXPLORER

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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