Ford recalls 76,748 vehicles: Driver's Seat May Recline Unexpectedly
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2027 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. An unoccupied driver's seat may recline unintentionally during certain scenarios, such as remote unlock or remote start. Unexpected movement of the driver’s seat back may trap a second-row occupant, increasing the risk of injury. Dealers will disable the driver seat module (DSM) feature until parts are available. Once available, the motor will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 3, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S53. About 76,748 vehicles are covered nationwide. Owners can check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. This is a national recall; it is not specific to New Carlisle or to Ohio.
Writing the report from the record…
The source filing
| NHTSA campaign | 26V470000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Recall type | Vehicle |
| Component | SEATS |
| Units | 76,748 |
| Do not drive | no |
| Park outside | no |
| Defect | Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2027 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. An unoccupied driver's seat may recline unintentionally during certain scenarios, such as remote unlock or remote start. |
| Consequence | Unexpected movement of the driver’s seat back may trap a second-row occupant, increasing the risk of injury. |
| Remedy | Dealers will disable the driver seat module (DSM) feature until parts are available. Once available, the motor will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 3, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S53. |
| Manufacturer campaign | 26S53 |
| Scope | National recall - NHTSA publishes no state or ZIP breakdown |
Published by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (U.S. DOT data hub). This is the agency's public filing as The Lantern received it, shown with its fields named in plain English.