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NHTSA·Cars and vehicles·September 9, 2026

Ford recalls 2026 Explorer over passenger air bag that may not deploy properly

The active vent on the passenger side may not open as intended, so the air bag may not deploy properly, which raises the risk of injury in a crash.

What to do

Dealers will replace the passenger air bag module free of charge. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and mention Ford's recall number 26S65.

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

NHTSA recall page

Recall details

Product
Ford Explorer 2026
Company
Ford Motor Company
Hazard
An air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury in a crash.
Units
7 vehicles
Owner notification
September 16, 2026
Reported to NHTSA
September 9, 2026
Identifiers
  • NHTSA campaign number: 26V581000
  • Manufacturer campaign number: 26S65
  • 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
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Defect
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.
Consequence
An air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury in a crash.
Corrective action
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.

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