Ford recalls 177,000 Mustangs, hybrids over three safety defects

Ford Motor Company is recalling 177,009 vehicles because three separate defects can compromise visibility, propulsion or pedestrian safety, with free repairs planned and owner letters due this month. The affected models include some 2024-2026 Mustang and 2025-2026 Mustang GTD coupes, 2021-2023 Mustang Mach-E crossovers, and 2024-2027 Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid and 2025-2027 Explorer Hybrid vehicles.

The largest single campaign covers 67,842 Mustang and Mustang GTD vehicles for a windshield wiper and washer malfunction that can show up in cold temperatures. In that failure mode, the wipers may work only at the high-speed setting and the washer system can stop functioning altogether, cutting visibility in weather where drivers most need both systems. Ford’s recall number for that issue is 26V418000, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall number is 26V418000.

A second recall covers 42,784 Mustang Mach-E vehicles because a rear differential pinion shaft can fracture. The condition can lead to a loss of drive power, and if the parking brake is not engaged it could also let a parked vehicle move. NHTSA lists that campaign as 26V417000.

The third action covers 66,383 hybrid SUVs, including 18,242 Explorer Hybrid and 48,141 Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid vehicles, because a software problem can prevent the pedestrian warning sound from playing at speeds below 30 kph in electric mode. The sound failure can occur randomly without driver input. The vehicles use the HEV powertrain and the Phoenix Audio System, and one known cause involves a DSP module software issue while another, non-DSP cause remained under investigation. Ford had logged 65 warranty claims on Nautilus HEV vehicles and seven on Explorer HEV vehicles by May 1, 2026, and said it was not aware of accidents or injuries tied to the condition. NHTSA lists that campaign as 26V415000, and Ford’s recall number is 26S51.

On March 3, Ford recalled 604,533 vehicles, including 2020-2022 Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Aviator and Lincoln Corsair models, over a separate windshield wiper motor failure tied to a misaligned cover terminal and brush card terminal. That earlier repair called for inspection and replacement of front wiper motors as needed, with interim owner letters expected March 9 and final remedy availability anticipated in May. In late June, Ford also recalled more than 741,000 vehicles over a faulty park system that could leave cars vulnerable to rolling away.