Ford recalls Explorer and Aviator SUVs with faulty seats

Dearborn, MI – September 10, 2026 – Ford (NYSE:F), which also owns the Lincoln brand, is recalling 387,911 SUVs whose seats may move unexpectedly. The defect reduces the level of occupant protection in a crash, upping the risk of injury.

The following models are affected: 

  • 2020 – 2026 Ford Explorer
  • 2020 – 2027 Lincoln Aviator

This recall is both an expansion of and a replacement for a previous one conducted for the same issue in 2025.

Recall summary  

The second-row seats of the affected vehicles feature the so-called “easy entry” switch that allows them to be folded or slid forward when needed to provide access to the third row. The switch may “bind” or “stick,” which could result in the seats moving unexpectedly while driving. 

Recall risks

Seats that suddenly move could either injure occupants or fail to protect them in an accident.

Background of the recall

Some of the affected vehicles were already recalled in June 2025 with dealers replacing the switch and the decorative trim around it. After the recall was completed, Ford received several reports of both repaired cars and ones that were not originally included experiencing issues with the second-row seats. That eventually led to the present recall. 

No injuries or accidents have been reported.

Other Ford recalls

In July 2026, Ford recalled  10,700 F-150 pickups over faulty transmission, as reported.

Earlier that same month, Ford recalled 16,000 Bronco SUVs whose roofs would detach while driving, also as reported.

The repair

Dealers will replace the switch and the surrounding decorative trim free of charge.

The remedy is set to be available in January 2027.

When that happens, the owners will receive a letter inviting them to take the car to the nearest dealership.

Is your vehicle a part of this recall?

This Ford seat recall affects almost 388,000 SUVS. To do a Ford recall check and see if yours is one of them, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.

Aleksandra SnesarevaFord recalls Explorer and Aviator SUVs with faulty seats

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