2026 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated June 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2026 Ford Explorer has 1 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues, repair costs range from $ to $. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2025-2026 Ford Explorer, certain 2025-2026 Explorers were built with incorrect Headlight Control Module (HCM) software. The Dynamic Bending Light system can swivel the passenger-side headlight in the wrong direction when the vehicle drives through a curve, aiming the beam toward oncoming traffic. The misaimed headlight increases glare for other road users and raises crash risk. About 35,772 vehicles are affected, with Ford estimating up to 100% of the population may have the defect.
Dealers update the Headlight Control Module software free of charge under NHTSA recall 26V121000 (Ford 26C12); the remedy may also be delivered via OTA update. Owner notification letters were mailed around March 30, 2026. Ford customer service: 1-866-436-7332.
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Lincoln Corsair, Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The windshield glass may have visible air bubbles, which can obscure the driver's visibility. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 205, "Glazing Materials."
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Explorer vehicles. The Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) system software may cause the passenger-side headlight to turn in the wrong direction when driving through curves in the road. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
TRAILER HITCHES
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Explorer and 2024-2026 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The trailer hitch assembly bolts may be loose.
ENGINE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer, Mustang, Lincoln Corsair, and 2025 Maverick vehicles. The cylinder head may have been improperly manufactured, which can cause the ball plugs to fail, resulting in an oil leak.
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 212, "Windshield Mounting."
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According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2026-2026 Ford Explorer has 1 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) Headlight Turns the Wrong Way in Curves, Glaring Oncoming Traffic (Recall 26V121 / 26C12). None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
The 2026-2026 Ford Explorer has 1 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known Ford Explorer issues range from $0 to $0, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
Certain 2025-2026 Explorers were built with incorrect Headlight Control Module (HCM) software. The Dynamic Bending Light system can swivel the passenger-side headlight in the wrong direction when the vehicle drives through a curve, aiming the beam toward oncoming traffic. The mis… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
