NHTSA recall 26V-121 (26V121000)
exterior lighting recall reported March 3, 2026 - about 35,772 vehicles affected.
- NHTSA campaign number
- 26V121000
- Also written as
- 26V-121
- Manufacturer number
- 26C12
- Reported
- March 3, 2026
- Vehicles affected
- ~35,772
- Component
- exterior lighting
What is being recalled
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."
Why it is dangerous
A headlight that turns incorrectly can result in increased glare to other road users, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix (free at any franchised dealer)
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 1-866-436-7332. 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.
Recall repairs are always free, regardless of vehicle age or where you bought the car. Quote the campaign number 26V-121 when calling a dealer.
Affected 1 model
Each year links to that car's full history: every recall, owner complaints and common problems.
Source: NHTSA recall campaign data (public domain), refreshed weekly. See also the latest recall campaigns.