The problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture.
The risk
A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the toe links, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 16, 2026. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S08. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall number 21V537. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning February 25, 2026.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 26V-101 (26V101000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 26S08 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Suspension › Rear |
| Report date | February 20, 2026 |
| Owners notified | March 16, 2026 |
| Vehicles affected | 412,774 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the suspension
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 26V-101 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the toe links, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 16, 2026. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S08.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 412,774 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.