The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereNHTSA·26V532000·Announced 2026-08-13

Ford Recalls 2026 Explorers Due to Engine Bearing Seizure Risk

Ford is recalling 2026 Explorer vehicles with 2.3L engines because connecting rod bearings may seize, causing engine failure, power loss, or fire.

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 vehicle defect (engine failure) that can result in a loss of drive power and a fire, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2026 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine. The recall addresses a defect where the engine connecting rod bearings may seize, which can result in engine failure.

Engine failure can lead to a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, bearing failure may cause a breach in the engine block, allowing oil to leak and increasing the risk of a fire.

Dealers will replace the engine long blocks free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 25, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S58. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on August 18, 2026.

The recalled product

Product
FORD EXPLORER
Brand
FORD
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Category
Vehicle — SUV
Hazard
Affected units
6

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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