The problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2027 Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid and 2025-2027 Explorer Hybrid vehicles. A software error may prevent the vehicle from making the pedestrian warning sound at certain speeds.
The risk
A vehicle that does not produce a warning sound may fail to alert pedestrians of an approaching vehicle, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
Note: This is an expansion of Recall 25V691. Any vehicles previously repaired under 25V691 must have the new remedy completed. Ford will release an over-the-air (OTA) update or dealers will update the APIM software, free of charge. Additionally, dealers will replace the digital signal processing module in Nautilus Hybrid vehicles equipped with 28 speakers, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S51. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning July 7, 2026.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 26V-415 (26V415000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 26S51 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Back over prevention › Warnings › External/pedestrian alert |
| Report date | June 30, 2026 |
| Owners notified | August 7, 2026 |
| Vehicles affected | 66,383 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
- 2025 Ford Explorer Hybrid
- 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid
- 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid
- 2026 Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid
Plus 3 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the driver assistance
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 26V-415 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Note: This is an expansion of Recall 25V691. Any vehicles previously repaired under 25V691 must have the new remedy completed. Ford will release an over-the-air (OTA) update or dealers will update the APIM software, free of charge.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 66,383 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.