Ford is Recalling More Than 400,000 Older Explorers Because Because of Possible Rear Suspension Problems

Ford is recalling 412,774 2017-2019 Ford Explorers because a part of the rear suspension can break and lead to an accident. While Ford is recalling a huge number of vehicles, only about 1 percent of them are believed to have the problem. The recalled part is a cross-axis ball joint and a toe link. A toe link is a part of the rear suspension that connects the rear wheel knuckle to the vehicle frame. It keeps the rear wheels properly aligned and pointing straight. These links control the "toe" angle (inward or outward angle) of the tires, which directly affects steering control, stability, and handling. The toe links are especially important during turning, towing, or carrying loads. Some of these vehicles have been previously recalled, for similar issues. The Explorer is one of Ford's longest running nameplates. Millions have been sold over the last three decades. 

2017-2019 Ford Explorers Being Recalled

The Explorers being recalled were built between May 16, 2017 and Mar 03, 2019. All of the Explorers were built at the Chicago Assembly Plant on Torrance Avenue. The plant also builds the Police Interceptor SUVs. The issue primarily affects Explorers that are located in states that use salt on the roads in winter, but now it appears all of the vehicles could have the corrosion problems that cause the toe link to break. 

According to paperwork filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, fracture of a rear toe link diminishes steering control, increasing the risk of a crash. Warning signs that you may have a problem include a clunking noise, unusual handling, and/or a misaligned rear wheel. Ford is aware of two accidents globally potentially related to this issue involving vehicles hitting road guardrails/barriers following toe link fracture. Ford is not aware of any injuries potentially related to this issue. In all, Ford has recently received 26 reports of toe link fractures. 

How Ford Will Fix the Rear Toe Link Issue

Ford will be notifying all Ford owners by mail from Mar 09, 2026 - Mar 13, 2026. Owners will be told to take their vehicle to a dealer where service technicians will replace the cross-axis ball joint/ toe link assembly free of charge. The new parts are more substantial and more resistant to breaking. Any drivers who are concerned about the recall can call Ford’s toll-free line at 1-866-436-7332. Drivers can also reach out to their Ford dealer. The NHTSA number for this recall is 26V101. Ford’s number for the recall is 26S08.

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Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin.

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