Ford is recalling more than 615,000 US vehicles over wiper, driveshaft defects
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Ford is recalling more than 615,000 vehicles in the US for two separate safety issues involving wiper motors and driveshaft components, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The major recall covers 604,533 vehicles because the front wiper motor defect can cause the wipers to operate intermittently or fail completely, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash, the NHTSA filing shows.
The recall includes certain 2020–2022 Ford Explorer and Escape models, as well as 2020–2022 Lincoln Aviator and Lincoln Corsair vehicles built between July 6, 2020, and Dec. 15, 2021.
Ford Explorer at the Ford Chicago Assembly Plant where the Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator cars are made. (Jose M. Osorio/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
According to the Part 573 safety report, the problem stems from a situation where the terminal of the motor cover may not fit properly with the brush terminal of the card during assembly, which has the potential to create a weak electrical connection that can lead to loss of electrical continuity over time. Front wiper operation may be intermittent before progressing to complete failure.
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Ford has identified 1,374 warranty claims related to defective or defective motors among affected individuals as of Feb. 18, 2026, but said they are not aware of any reports of crashes or injuries related to the situation. The estimated disability rate is about 1% of the repatriated population.
The 2020 Ford Explorer ST rocks. (Ford Motor Co.)
The recall is listed under NHTSA Campaign Number 26V117, and Ford’s internal recall number is 26S14.
Dealers will inspect and replace windshield wiper motors as needed, free of charge. Seller notice began on March 4, 2026, and interim owner notice letters are expected to be sent between March 9 and March 13, 2026. A second notice will be sent once a final remedy is available, which is expected between May 11 and May 15, 2026.
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Ford has instructed dealers not to display or deliver new in-stock vehicles covered by the recall until repairs are completed. Federal law requires corrective recalls to be completed before delivery to consumers.
| A ticker | Security | Finally | Change | Change % |
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| F | This company FORD MOTOR CO. | 12.81 | +0.11 |
+0.87% |
Owners can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or check their vehicle identification number at NHTSA.gov, where affected VINs begin searching March 4, 2026.
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Separately, Ford is also recalling 11,431 U.S. vehicles because the driveshaft linkage may fail, which could lead to the rear driveshaft separating and a sudden loss of power, NHTSA said. Dealers will fix that problem at no charge to owners.
