Ford and Lincoln Recall 387K SUVs Over Second-Row Seat Issue

Ford Motor Company is recalling nearly 387,000 SUVs across two popular nameplates due to a defect that could cause the second-row seat to shift without warning. The recall affects the 2020 through 2026 Ford Explorer and the 2020 through 2027 Lincoln Aviator.

According to documents filed with federal safety regulators, the issue stems from a missing or improperly installed cross-bolt in the seat’s recliner mechanism. If the bolt is absent, the seat back may not lock properly in an upright position, allowing it to move forward unexpectedly during a crash or sudden stop.

That movement increases the risk of injury to passengers seated in the second row.

Ford says it has received 164 warranty reports and three field reports related to the problem, but is not aware of any accidents or injuries. The automaker will begin notifying owners in late April. Dealers will inspect the affected seats and, if necessary, replace the recliner mechanism at no cost to customers.

Owners can check if their vehicle is included by visiting Ford’s recall website or calling the automaker’s customer service line. The recall is the latest in a series of seat-related issues for the Explorer and Aviator, which have faced multiple safety campaigns in recent years.