United StatesCertain 2026 Ford Explorer and Mustang vehicles (278 potentially affected; VINs searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 2, 2026; NHTSA campaign 26V205000, Ford campaign 26S23) are affected. Ford is recalling them because engine piston circlips may have been incorrectly installed, which can cause piston failure, engine damage and a loss of drive power that increases crash risk; dealers will inspect engines and replace them as necessary free of charge, and owner letters were mailed April 10, 2026 (customer service 1-866-436-7332).
What's being recalled
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.
How to identify it
NHTSA campaign 26V205000; Manufacturer campaign 26S23
The hazard
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.
The official notice
This page is a summary of the notice published by U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, collected from U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Check the original before you act on it.
Read the official notice (opens in a new tab)