Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:hard Parts Internal/mechanical

NHTSA campaign 26V205000 · announced March 31, 2026 · filed by Ford Motor Company · 278 units affected

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.

What to do

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.

Vehicles covered by this recall

• 2026 Ford Explorer
• 2026 Ford Mustang

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal or repair advice.