Air bags: frontalRecall 26V-581 · 2026 Ford Explorer
Ford Motor Company recall 26V-581 covers 7 2026 Ford Explorer for a air bags: frontal problem, reported to NHTSA on September 9, 2026. The manufacturer's latest report (2026 Q3) shows 29% of affected vehicles repaired.
Source: NHTSA recall 26V581000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer vehicles. The active vent on the passenger side may not open as intended, preventing the air bag from deploying properly.
The risk
An air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury in a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the passenger air bag module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S65. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on September 14, 2026.
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Vehicles in this recall
Built from August 2, 2026 to August 2, 2026. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.