Ford recall for 2026 Explorer windshield mounting issue

Ford Motor Company has announced a recall for a limited batch of 2026 model year Explorer crossovers due to a potential windshield mounting defect. According to the company, during production, the windshield may not have been securely bonded to the body, which could cause it to detach in a crash. This increases the risk of injury and does not meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 212, the federal safety standard for windshield mounting.

The recall affects vehicles assembled at the Chicago Assembly Plant between October 19 and 20, 2025, with a total of eight cars involved. Dealers will remove and replace the windshields free of charge. Owners are advised to wait for official notification from Ford, with mailings set to begin on January 30, 2026. The manufacturer's campaign number is 26C02.

In practice, this recall highlights a critical safety issue, as a properly secured windshield is essential for occupant protection in accidents. For buyers, this is important since it underscores Ford's proactive approach to addressing potential flaws, even in small batches, to ensure compliance and safety standards are upheld.