Ford Recalls Over 412,000 Explorer SUVs for Suspension Issue

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Ford is recalling more than 412,000 units of 2017-2019 Ford Explorer SUVs due to a potential issue with the rear suspension toe link. The recall documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicate that the toe link has the potential to fracture, which could diminish steering control and increase the likelihood of a crash. Ford has not identified a root cause for the issue but plans to replace the existing toe links with a revised version that is stronger and more resistant to seized cross-axis ball joints.

Why it matters

This recall highlights an ongoing issue with the Ford Explorer's suspension components that has plagued the popular SUV model for several years. While NHTSA estimates only 1% of the recalled vehicles will be affected, the potential loss of steering control poses a serious safety risk to drivers and the public. The recall also comes as Ford continues to grapple with a high volume of recalls, raising concerns about the automaker's quality control processes.

The details

The recall covers 412,000 units of 2017-2019 Ford Explorer SUVs. NHTSA officials say the rear suspension toe link on these vehicles has the potential to fracture, which can diminish steering control and increase the likelihood of a crash. Ford first detected this issue in July 2021 on certain 2013-2017 Explorer models, many of which also had seized rear suspension cross-axis ball joints. While Ford has not identified a root cause, NHTSA presented the automaker with 26 owner reports of rear toe link fractures in January 2026, prompting the recall. Ford is not issuing a Do-Not-Drive warning, meaning owners can continue driving their Explorers until the recall work is completed.

• The issue with fractured suspension toe links on certain Ford Explorer models first appeared in July 2021.
• NHTSA presented Ford with 26 owner reports of rear toe link fractures in January 2026, prompting the recall.

What’s next

Ford will replace the existing suspension toe links on the recalled Explorer models with a revised version that is stronger and more resistant to seized cross-axis ball joints.