2020–2026 Ford Explorer, Lincoln Aviator: Seat Belts recall
NHTSA campaign 26V159000 · 561 units potentially affected · filed Mar 17, 2026
What's 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.
Why it matters
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.
Recall details
- NHTSA campaign
- 26V159000
- Manufacturer no.
- 26C18
- Manufacturer
- Ford Motor Company
- Component
- SEAT BELTS
- Units affected
- 561
- Report received
- Mar 17, 2026
- Owner letters
- Mar 30, 2026
- Type
- Vehicle
Check whether your vehicle is included with the official NHTSA VIN lookup or your dealer. Repairs for safety recalls are free.
Vehicles covered
- Ford Explorer 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026
- Lincoln Aviator 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026