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NHTSA·Cars and vehicles·August 25, 2026

Ford recalls 2026 Explorer, Bronco, Bronco Sport, Mustang and Ranger over engine piston flaw

Engine piston domes may have been made incorrectly and could fail, causing a sudden loss of drive power that raises the risk of a crash.

What to do

Dealers will inspect the engine pistons and replace the engine long block if needed, free of charge; the fix is expected in December 2026. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and cite recall number 26S61.

Look up your car to see every recall for its make, model and year.

NHTSA recall page

Recall details

Product
Ford Explorer, Bronco Sport, Bronco and 2 more 2026
Company
Ford Motor Company
Hazard
An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Units
10,001 vehicles
Reported to NHTSA
August 25, 2026
Identifiers
  • NHTSA campaign number: 26V548000
  • Manufacturer campaign number: 26S61
  • Model years: 2026

The headline, summary and steps above are written in plain English from the official notice below. Identifiers are copied exactly as the agency published them. Always check the official notice before you act.

Official notice

The notice's own wording from NHTSA.

Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
Defect
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer, Bronco, Bronco Sport, Mustang, and Ranger vehicles. The engine piston domes may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in piston dome failure and lead to a loss of drive power.
Consequence
An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective action
Dealers will inspect the engine pistons and replace the engine long block, if necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 3, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in December 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S61. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on August 28, 2026.

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