Engine: hard parts internal/mechanicalRecall 26V-205 · Ford vehicles
Ford Motor Company recall 26V-205 covers 278 Ford vehicles for a engine: hard parts internal/mechanical problem, reported to NHTSA on March 31, 2026. The manufacturer's latest report (2026 Q3) shows 88% of affected vehicles repaired.
Source: NHTSA recall 26V205000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer and Mustang vehicles. The engine piston circlips may have been incorrectly installed during manufacturing, which can result in piston failure and engine damage, leading to a loss of drive power.
The risk
An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the engine for missing or mis-installed circlips and replace the engine 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 26S23. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 2, 2026.
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
How fast cars are being fixed
88%repaired
Share of affected vehicles repaired in each quarterly report the manufacturer filed with NHTSA.
Vehicles in this recall
Built from February 17, 2026 to February 26, 2026. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.