Recall 26V-121
Ford Motor Company recalled the 2025 to 2026 Ford Explorer: Exterior lighting (headlights).
At a glance
- Campaign number
- 26V-121
- Reported
- March 3, 2026
- Vehicles affected
- 35,772 estimated by the manufacturer
Source: NHTSA recall records
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Explorer vehicles. The Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) system software may cause the passenger-side headlight to turn in the wrong direction when driving through curves in the road. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
The risk
A headlight that turns incorrectly can result in increased glare to other road users, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
The headlight control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-[removed]. Ford's number for this recall is 26C12. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
Affected vehicles
- Ford Explorer 2025 to 2026