The Recall Desk
Our severity:HighNHTSA·26V726000·Announced 2026-11-02

Ford Recalls 2026-2027 Explorer Police Interceptor for Map Light Defect

Ford is recalling 2026-2027 Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles because a software error may cause map lights to stay on, potentially distracting drivers.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 3/5 (High).

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 addresses a defect where map lights may remain illuminated, creating a distraction hazard that increases the risk of a crash. The source does not report any injuries, illnesses, or deaths.

Plain-English summary

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2026-2027 Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles. The recall addresses a defect where a phantom "Global On" command in the overhead console may illuminate the map lights and prevent them from being turned off. This issue causes the vehicles to fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) Number 101, "Controls and Displays."

The unintended illumination of the overhead map lights may distract the driver or cause interior glare, which increases the risk of a crash. The source text does not report any specific injuries, illnesses, or deaths associated with this defect.

Dealers will replace the overhead consoles on vehicles built prior to July 9, 2026. For vehicles built after July 9, 2026, dealers will inspect the overhead console for a "SW2" marking and replace it as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C50.

The recalled product

Product
FORD EXPLORER
Brand
FORD
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Category
Vehicle — SUV
Hazard
Affected units
33,578

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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