The problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Lincoln Aviator and Explorer vehicles. The heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system may fail, which can cause the defrosting and defogging system to become inoperative.
The risk
An inoperative windshield defrosting and defogging system may decrease the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect and secure the instrument panel joints as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S22. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning April 3, 2026.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 26V-202 (26V202000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 26S22 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Visibility › Defroster/defogger/HVAC system › Fan/motor |
| Report date | March 31, 2026 |
| Owners notified | April 10, 2026 |
| Vehicles affected | 55 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 26V-202 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect and secure the instrument panel joints as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S22.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 55 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.