Ford is recalling approximately 388,000 SUVs due to a potential safety defect in the second-row easy-entry seats that could lead to unintended movement, increasing the risk of injury in a crash, federal regulators announced.
The recall affects 387,911 vehicles, specifically certain 2020-2026 Ford Explorer and 2020-2027 Lincoln Aviator models, according to a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The NHTSA stated that a defect in the switch mechanism for the outer second-row easy-entry seats may cause them to bind or stick. This can result in the seats unlatching, tipping, or sliding unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion.
"A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury," the NHTSA said in its notice.
Ford's Critical Concern Review Group identified 14 reports as of June 16, 2026, detailing unintended second-row seat movement while the vehicles were in drive. Six of these reports involved vehicles that had already undergone a remedy under a previous recall, while eight concerned vehicles not covered by that earlier campaign. Ford has indicated it is not aware of any crashes or injuries linked to this specific issue.
Warning signs for owners include the easy-entry button becoming stuck in the down position, preventing the use of the easy-entry feature or the seat's return to its normal position after use.
Owners of the affected vehicles will be advised to bring their SUVs to a Ford or Lincoln dealership. Technicians will replace the second-row easy-entry switch bezel and housing with a revised design at no cost to the owner. Notification letters are scheduled to be mailed to owners later this month, with a follow-up letter regarding the remedy expected in January.