Lincoln and Ford recall 300k SUVs over unlatching, sliding seats
Ford Motor Company has issued a record number of recalls this year. The total is well over 70 recalls, affecting 2.5 million vehicles. Ford’s just issued another huge one, a recall of 304,000 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator SUVs. The issue? Their rear seats might not latch in place, folding or sliding forward while the vehicle’s driving. Here are the makes and models affected.
- 2020-2025 Ford Explorers
- 2020-2025 Lincoln Aviators
Both these crossovers have a quick release fold/slide latch on the outside of the second-row seats. When you pull this handle, the seat automatically hinges forward and springs along its tracks to allow access to the third row. According to the recall announcement, Ford’s finding there’s a problem with these handles that keeps them from resetting. This means the seats may not be latched, and can slide when the SUV is driving.
What exactly is the problem with the system? Ford didn’t go into detail, but its planned fix is a major clue. Dealers will replace the bezels around the release lever. So it’s a safe bet the bezel and handle are misaligned, preventing the handle from reseting fully.
This is officially Ford recall 25S67. Curious if your vehicle is affected by a recall? You can either call your local Ford dealership with your VIN handy, or you can punch your VIN in at NHTSA.gov.