2020–2026 Lincoln Aviator and 2020–2026 Ford Explorer recall: Seat belts
Recall at a glance
- Campaign number
- 26V159000
- Reported
- March 17, 2026
- Manufacturer
- Ford Motor Company
- Part
- Seat belts
- Vehicles affected
- About 561
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.
Safety risk
A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
Affected models
Model years listed by NHTSA for this campaign. Only vehicles within the build range in the notice are affected.
Frequently asked questions
Which vehicles are affected by this recall?
Ford Explorer (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026); Lincoln Aviator (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026). Check your VIN to confirm.
What is the safety risk?
A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
What is the fix?
Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall data for passenger vehicles, recalls since 2013, shown as published. This site is independent and not affiliated with NHTSA or any manufacturer. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and follow your manufacturer’s notice. Terms and disclaimer.