FORD EXPLORER: NHTSA recall 26V470000 explained
The recall concerns powered driver seats that may recline unexpectedly while the vehicle is unoccupied during certain remote functions.
Ford and Lincoln owners should review the official recall notice for affected vehicles. The reported issue involves unintended movement of an unoccupied driver’s seat back in certain situations. Only an official VIN lookup can confirm whether a particular vehicle has an open recall.
What the official recall record says
FORD, LINCOLN: EXPLORER, AVIATOR
According to the official recall record, an unoccupied driver’s seat may recline during certain remote unlock or remote start scenarios. The record says this movement may create a trapping hazard for an occupant in the second row. The manufacturer reports that a remedy is still being developed, and the official record does not specify an owner-notification schedule.
Official record
- NHTSA recall ID: 26V470000
- Vehicles listed: FORD EXPLORER (2027, 2026); LINCOLN AVIATOR (2027, 2026)
- Potentially affected: 79,579
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
- Report received: July 21, 2026
- Owner notification: Not provided in the source record
- Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026-2027 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. An unoccupied driver’s seat may recline unintentionally during certain scenarios, such as remote unlock or remote start.
- Safety consequence: Unexpected movement of the driver’s seat back may trap a second-row occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: The remedy is currently under development. The owner notification schedule has not been provided. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 26S53.
What owners should do next
If you own an affected Ford or Lincoln vehicle, check its VIN through an official recall lookup and follow communications from the manufacturer. The official record does not yet specify the repair or notification timing.
A headline cannot confirm whether a particular vehicle is affected. Use the official NHTSA recall lookup with the vehicle identification number and contact the manufacturer or an authorized dealer for vehicle-specific guidance.
Sources used for this report.
References checked August 8, 2026.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Safety Recall Report: Campaign 26V470000. Report received July 21, 2026. Accessed August 8, 2026.
To check a specific vehicle, use the official NHTSA VIN recall lookup.