Ford Recalls Over 24,000 Vehicles: Full Breakdown of All Impacted Models, Defects & What Owners Must Do
By the AutoSafety Editorial Team | Sources: NHTSA, Ford Authority, Ford Motor Company, USA Today
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If you drive a Ford Escape plug-in hybrid or a Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring, pay close attention. This recall is directly relevant to your safety.
On February 24, 2026, Ford Motor Company announced a recall of more than 24,000 plug-in hybrid vehicles. The affected models are the 2023–2025 Ford Escape PHEV and the 2023–2026 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV. The issue is serious: a defect in the high-voltage battery cells could cause an internal short circuit, suddenly shut down the vehicle’s power system while you’re driving, and in worst-case scenarios, start a fire.
This isn’t Ford’s only active recall. The company has issued seven recalls covering more than 120,000 vehicles in the first 40 days of 2026 alone. A second major recall announced the same week covers more than 400,000 Ford Explorer SUVs for a suspension issue. Ford also has an active rollaway recall covering 270,000+ electric and hybrid vehicles.
This guide gives you the full picture. We explain the February 24 recall in detail, cover every other active Ford recall in 2026, and give you a clear step-by-step plan to check your vehicle and get it fixed — for free.
1. The February 24, 2026 Ford Recall: Quick Facts
- Announcement date: February 24, 2026
- Total vehicles recalled: More than 24,000
- Affected brands: Ford and Lincoln (both under Ford Motor Company)
- Models recalled: 2023–2025 Ford Escape PHEV; 2023–2026 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV
- NHTSA recall number: This expands earlier recalls 24V954 and 25V489 (new number: 26V126 / 25SC4 expanded)
- Ford’s internal reference: 25SC4
- Defect: Manufacturing flaw in high-voltage battery cells — internal short circuit risk
- Safety risks: Propulsion system shutdown while driving; potential battery fire
- Interim fix available now: Yes — limit charge to 80% max, use ‘Auto EV’ mode only
- Final remedy: Under development (not yet available)
- Owner notification letters: Expected to be mailed March 6, 2026
- Cost to owners: $0. All recall repairs are federally mandated to be free
2. Which Models Are Recalled? Year-by-Year Breakdown
The February 24, 2026 recall targets two specific plug-in hybrid models. These are not all Escape or Corsair vehicles — only the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions with the affected high-voltage battery packs are included.
| Model | Model Years | Units Affected | Primary Defect |
| Ford Escape PHEV | 2023–2025 | ~20,000+ | Battery cell manufacturing defect — internal short circuit risk; propulsion shutdown; fire risk |
| Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV | 2023–2026 | ~4,000+ | Same battery cell defect — internal short circuit; propulsion shutdown; fire risk |
Ford Escape PHEV — Who Is Affected?
- 2023 Ford Escape PHEV — built August 4, 2023 to July 17, 2025
- 2024 Ford Escape PHEV — built in the same production window
- 2025 Ford Escape PHEV — built in the same production window
Not all vehicles in these model years are recalled — only those built within the specific production dates above using the affected battery cells. Checking your individual VIN at NHTSA.gov is the only way to confirm whether your specific vehicle is included.
Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV — Who Is Affected?
- 2023 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV — built August 1, 2023 to June 16, 2025
- 2024 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV — built in same window
- 2025 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV — built in same window
- 2026 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV — built in same window
The Corsair Grand Touring trim is Lincoln’s plug-in hybrid version. Standard gasoline-only Corsair models are not affected by this specific recall.
| How to Confirm Your Vehicle Is Included
Enter your 17-digit VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls Affected VINs became searchable on NHTSA.gov as of February 18, 2026 Or call Ford Customer Service: 1-866-436-7332 Or call NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-888-275-9171) |
3. What Is the Defect? The Battery Problem Explained Clearly
Every plug-in hybrid vehicle has a large high-voltage battery pack. Inside that pack are dozens of individual battery cells — similar in concept to AA batteries, but much larger and more powerful.
Each cell has a thin internal layer called the separator. The separator keeps the positive side (cathode) and negative side (anode) of the cell from touching each other. If they touch — a situation called a short circuit — the result is rapid heat generation, loss of power, and potentially fire.
The Manufacturing Flaw
According to Ford and NHTSA documents, the battery cell supplier’s manufacturing process contains variability. That variability can cause the cathode to create micro-defects and local stress points in the separator layer. Essentially, some cells were made with a slightly damaged internal barrier — damage invisible to the naked eye, but enough to eventually fail.
When the separator fails, the cell short-circuits. The effect cascades: one bad cell can trigger others nearby. The result is battery failure.
What Happens Inside the Car When This Occurs
- The vehicle’s Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) detects the anomaly
- The propulsion system shuts down — the car loses its ability to accelerate
- A red ‘Stop Safely Now’ warning appears on the dashboard
- In a worst-case scenario, the short circuit generates intense heat — called ‘thermal venting’ — which can start a fire
- Steering, braking, and lighting functions remain operational even during propulsion loss
The last point is important. You will still be able to steer and brake after the propulsion shuts down. But losing forward momentum on a highway at speed is genuinely dangerous — particularly in fast-moving traffic where other drivers may not expect a decelerating vehicle.
4. What Are the Risks? Fire, Propulsion Shutdown & ‘Stop Safely Now’
The NHTSA identifies two primary safety hazards from this defect.
Risk 1: Propulsion System Shutdown
When the battery short-circuits while driving, the vehicle immediately loses drive power. The official description: ‘Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.’
Imagine driving at 65 mph on a highway when your car suddenly stops accelerating. Other drivers behind you don’t know it’s coming. You have to react quickly to get to the shoulder safely. That’s the real-world risk here.
Risk 2: Battery Fire
A short-circuiting lithium-ion battery cell generates intense heat rapidly. This can trigger thermal venting — a process in which battery gases vent, potentially catching fire. Ford is aware of four incidents of battery thermal venting related to this defect. Three occurred on European-market vehicles. No accidents or injuries have been reported in the U.S. as of the recall announcement.
Battery fires in hybrid and electric vehicles burn hot and can be difficult for firefighters to extinguish. They also produce toxic smoke. This is why NHTSA takes battery short-circuit defects extremely seriously.
The ‘Stop Safely Now’ Dashboard Warning
If your vehicle triggers this defect while driving, you will see a red ‘Stop Safely Now’ message on your dashboard. This message means: act immediately. Signal, reduce speed gradually, and pull to the shoulder or off the road as soon as it is safe to do so. Do not attempt to continue driving. Do not try to restart the vehicle. Call for assistance.
| 🚨 If You See ‘Stop Safely Now’ While Driving
1. Do not panic. Your steering and brakes still work. 2. Signal your intention to move to the right. 3. Gradually reduce speed using your brakes. 4. Pull to the nearest safe location — shoulder, parking lot, or side street. 5. Turn on your hazard lights. 6. Do not attempt to restart the vehicle. 7. If you smell burning or see smoke, exit immediately and move at least 100 feet away. Call 911. 8. Call Ford roadside assistance: 1-800-241-3673. |
5. Is This the First Time? The Recall History of This Battery Issue
This is not the first time Ford has recalled these vehicles for this battery problem. The February 24, 2026 action expands two earlier recalls that attempted — and partially failed — to fix the same underlying defect.
Recall 1: December 2024 — Campaign 24V954
Ford first recalled affected Escape PHEV and Corsair Grand Touring vehicles in December 2024. The fix at that time was a software update to the Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) — designed to improve the system’s ability to detect cell anomalies.
The software update worked for most vehicles. But according to Ford and NHTSA, ‘based on new information, the recall remedy for 24V954 may not detect these conditions in all cases.’
Recall 2: November 2025 — Campaign 25V489
Ford issued a follow-up recall in November 2025 for vehicles where the 2024 software fix proved insufficient. This recall also tried to address the same battery cell defect.
Recall 3: February 24, 2026 — Campaign 26V126 (Expansion)
The February 24 recall expands the scope of the 2024 and 2025 campaigns. It covers additional vehicles built within a wider production date range. It also acknowledges that the final remedy — likely battery pack replacement for some vehicles — is still being developed.
In other words: Ford and its battery cell supplier have been working on this problem for over a year, across three separate recall campaigns. The February 2026 action is the most comprehensive attempt yet.
6. What Should Affected Owners Do Right Now?
Don’t wait for the letter in the mail. Here’s exactly what to do today.
| ✅ Step-by-Step: What to Do If Your Ford or Lincoln Is Recalled
Step 1: Find your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It’s on your dashboard (driver’s side, visible through the windshield), your registration card, or your insurance documents. Step 2: Go to NHTSA.gov/recalls and enter your VIN in the search box — or call NHTSA’s free hotline: 1-888-327-4236. Step 3: You can also check directly with Ford at ford.com/support/recalls or call Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Step 4: If your VIN shows an open recall, contact your nearest Ford or Lincoln dealer to schedule a free repair appointment. Step 5: For the Feb. 24, 2026 Escape/Corsair battery recall — while waiting for the fix: use ‘Auto EV’ mode only and limit battery charge to a maximum of 80%. Step 6: Download NHTSA’s free SaferCar app (iOS and Android) — it sends automatic alerts if new recalls are issued for your vehicle. All recall repairs are mandated by federal law to be free of charge. You cannot be charged for recall-related repairs. |
The Interim Precautions (Do These Now — Before the Fix Is Ready)
Ford and NHTSA have issued specific interim instructions for Escape PHEV and Corsair Grand Touring owners while waiting for the final repair:
- Use ‘Auto EV’ mode only when driving — do not use pure EV mode or charge-depleting mode
- Limit your battery charge to a maximum of 80% capacity — do not charge to 100%
- Most vehicles allow you to set a charge limit in the infotainment system settings under ‘Charging’
- Avoid leaving the vehicle charging overnight unattended if possible
- If you see a ‘Stop Safely Now’ message, treat it as a genuine emergency
These precautions reduce the stress on the battery cells and lower the risk of triggering a short circuit while the final remedy is being developed.
7. All Active Ford Recalls in 2026 — Complete Summary Table
The February 24 recall is the most recent — but far from the only active Ford recall. Here is a comprehensive table of every major Ford recall campaign active in 2026 that owners should know about.
| Models Affected | NHTSA / Ford # | Issue & Status |
| 2023–2025 Ford Escape PHEV; 2023–2026 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring | 26V126 / 25SC4 (expanded) | 🔴 NEW Feb. 24, 2026 — Battery cell short circuit; propulsion shutdown; fire risk. Interim letters March 6, 2026. Limit charge to 80%. Final remedy under development. |
| 2022–2026 F-150 Lightning; 2024–2026 Mustang Mach-E; 2025–2026 Maverick | 25C69 | ⚠️ Park module may not engage — rollaway risk. Free OTA software update or dealer fix. Owner letters Feb. 2026. |
| 2017–2019 Ford Explorer | 26V (filed Feb 25, 2026) | ⚠️ Rear suspension toe link may fracture — steering impairment, crash risk. Dealers replace toe links free. |
| 2013–2019 Ford Escape, Focus; 2015–2016 Lincoln MKC; multiple other Ford/Lincoln models | 26S01 | ⚠️ Engine block heater may crack and short circuit — fire risk. Do NOT plug in block heater. Remedy: free replacement. Owner letters Feb. 13, 2026. |
| 2025–2026 Ford Escape; 2025–2026 Lincoln Corsair | 25C68 | ⚠️ Rear seat belt retractor bolts may not be secured — occupant restraint risk. Dealers inspect/replace free. Letters Dec. 26, 2025. |
| 2020–2022 Ford Escape; 2025 Ford Escape | 25SC7 (approx) | 🟡 Liftgate hinge covers may detach — road hazard risk. Dealers inspect/replace free. Letters Jan. 19, 2026. |
| 2026 Ford Explorer | 26V (filed early 2026) | ⚠️ Inadequate windshield bonding. Windshield could detach — crash risk. Dealer remedy. |
| 2025–2026 Ford Maverick | 25V (late 2025) | ⚠️ Instrument panel cover may detach during airbag deployment — injury risk. Dealer remedy Feb. 2026. |
*Red rows indicate the highest severity recalls with fire or crash risk. Check NHTSA.gov for the most current VIN lookup data on each recall.
8. The Ford Explorer Suspension Recall: 400,000+ Vehicles
The day after the Escape/Corsair announcement, Ford filed a separate recall covering more than 400,000 Ford Explorer SUVs from model years 2017, 2018, and 2019. This is one of the largest Ford recalls of early 2026.
The Explorer Defect
A rear suspension component called the toe link may fracture. The toe link controls wheel alignment. If it breaks, the vehicle’s alignment shifts unexpectedly, steering becomes unpredictable, and the risk of a crash increases significantly.
Owners may notice unusual handling, uneven tire wear, or the vehicle pulling to one side before the toe link fully fractures. Do not ignore these warning signs.
Who Is Affected?
- 2017 Ford Explorer
- 2018 Ford Explorer
- 2019 Ford Explorer
What Ford Will Do
Ford dealers will inspect affected Explorers and replace the rear toe links with updated components at no cost. Notification letters are expected in the coming weeks. Check NHTSA.gov with your VIN to confirm whether your specific Explorer is included.
9. The 270,000-Vehicle Rollaway Recall: F-150 Lightning, Mach-E & Maverick
One of Ford’s largest active recalls covers more than 270,000 electric and hybrid vehicles across three models. This recall (NHTSA Campaign 25C69) was announced in late 2025 and is being remedied throughout early 2026.
The Rollaway Risk
The integrated park module in affected vehicles may fail to fully lock into the Park position when the driver selects Park. If the parking mechanism doesn’t engage, the vehicle can roll away after the driver exits. This is a serious crash risk — particularly on inclines.
Which Models Are Covered
- 2022–2026 Ford F-150 Lightning BEV
- 2024–2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E
- 2025–2026 Ford Maverick (hybrid/electric variants)
The Fix
Ford will deliver a free software update — either over-the-air (OTA) remotely to compatible vehicles or at a dealership — that corrects the park module programming. Interim owner letters notifying of the safety risk were mailed in February 2026. Final remedy letters will follow when the fix is fully validated.
Until your vehicle is repaired: always apply the parking brake when parking, especially on inclines or uneven surfaces. Do not rely solely on the Park position.
10. Warning Signs: How to Know If Your Vehicle Is Having a Problem
Even before you receive a recall letter, your vehicle may show early warning signs of these defects. Here’s what to watch for and how to respond.
| Warning Sign | What It May Mean | What To Do |
| “Stop Safely Now” message on dashboard | Battery short circuit in progress — propulsion loss imminent | Signal, slow gradually, pull off road safely. Call 911 if unsafe. Call Ford: 1-866-436-7332 |
| Sudden loss of acceleration / propulsion | Battery failure has occurred; vehicle in limp or shutdown mode | Steer to shoulder using momentum. Hazard lights on. Do not restart. Call for assistance. |
| Smoke, burning smell from under hood or near battery | Battery thermal event / potential fire | Exit vehicle immediately. Move 100+ feet away. Call 911. Do NOT re-enter vehicle. |
| Unusual vehicle movement when in Park | Park mechanism may not have engaged (rollaway recall) | Apply parking brake fully. Contact dealer. Do not park on hills until repaired. |
| Steering feels unusual or vehicle pulls to one side | Potential suspension toe link fracture (Explorer recall) | Reduce speed. Drive to dealer or call for tow. Do not continue driving. |
11. Ford’s 2026 Recall Context: Why Is Ford Recalling So Many Cars?
Ford’s recall pace in 2026 is striking — but understanding the context helps make sense of it.
Ford Led All Automakers in Recalls in 2025
Ford issued more than 150 individual recall campaigns in 2025, affecting roughly 13 million vehicles. That made Ford the most-recalled manufacturer in the U.S. last year — outpacing GM, Stellantis, Toyota, and every other automaker.
2026 Has Continued the Trend
In the first 40 days of 2026 alone, Ford issued seven recalls affecting more than 123,000 vehicles. That pace puts Ford on track to again lead the industry in recall volume.
Is This Good News or Bad News?
Both, actually. A high recall count can signal quality problems — but it also reflects proactive safety monitoring. Ford CEO Jim Farley has said the company is ‘getting to the root of problems’ and expects more recalls as it identifies and addresses legacy issues.
Recalls, by themselves, are not evidence that a vehicle is dangerous to own. They are evidence that a defect was found — and that the manufacturer is legally required to fix it at no cost to owners. A recalled vehicle that has been properly repaired is safe to drive.
| The Broader Picture: Ford’s Quality Paradox
Ford recently announced higher employee bonuses tied to improvements in ‘initial quality’ — the 90-day ownership experience. Despite leading the industry in recalls (which measure longer-term safety compliance), Ford says vehicles are performing better in their first 90 days than they have in a decade. Recalls and initial quality metrics measure different things. Both matter, but they can move in different directions simultaneously. |
12. Frequently Asked Questions
Which Ford vehicles were recalled on February 24, 2026?
Ford recalled more than 24,000 vehicles: 2023–2025 Ford Escape PHEV (plug-in hybrid) and 2023–2026 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV. The defect involves high-voltage battery cells that may short-circuit internally, causing propulsion shutdown and potential fire.
How do I know if my Ford or Lincoln is affected?
Enter your 17-digit VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls. You can also call NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 or Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Affected VINs became searchable on NHTSA.gov on February 18, 2026.
What should Escape PHEV and Corsair PHEV owners do right now?
Two immediate steps: (1) Use ‘Auto EV’ mode only when driving. (2) Limit your battery charge to a maximum of 80% — do not charge to 100%. These precautions reduce risk until the final repair is available. Owner letters with official instructions will be mailed March 6, 2026.
Is it safe to drive my recalled Ford or Lincoln?
For the battery recall (Escape PHEV/Corsair PHEV): Yes, with the interim precautions above. Do not charge above 80%, use Auto EV mode only. For the Explorer suspension recall: If you notice unusual handling, pulling to one side, or uneven tire wear, take the vehicle to a dealer promptly and avoid highway speeds. For any vehicle with an active rollaway recall: Always apply the parking brake in addition to selecting Park.
Will Ford pay for the recall repairs?
Yes. Federal law (the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act) mandates that all recall repairs must be performed free of charge by authorized dealers. You cannot be charged for recall-related parts or labor. If a dealer attempts to charge you, contact NHTSA.
What is the ‘Stop Safely Now’ message on a Ford hybrid or electric vehicle?
‘Stop Safely Now’ is a critical red dashboard warning that means the vehicle has detected a serious system fault — in this context, a battery failure. It does not mean your brakes or steering will fail. It means your vehicle is about to lose propulsion. Safely slow down and pull off the road immediately. Do not continue driving.
How many Ford vehicles have been recalled in 2026?
As of February 25, 2026, Ford has issued at least seven recalls in the first 40 days of 2026, affecting more than 123,000 vehicles. The February 24 Escape/Corsair recall (24,000 vehicles) and the Explorer suspension recall (400,000+ vehicles) are the most recent major actions, bringing the 2026 total to well over 500,000 affected vehicles.
Does this recall affect all Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair models?
No. Only the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions are affected by the February 24, 2026 battery recall: specifically the Ford Escape PHEV (2023–2025) and Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV (2023–2026). Standard gasoline-only versions are not included in this specific recall. However, some gasoline Escape models may be included in separate recalls — check your VIN.
13. Key Takeaways & How to Check Your VIN Today
| Key Takeaways — February 25, 2026
Ford recalled 24,000+ vehicles on February 24, 2026: 2023–2025 Escape PHEV and 2023–2026 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV Defect: Manufacturing flaw in high-voltage battery cells — internal short circuit risk Risks: Propulsion shutdown while driving + potential battery fire If you see ‘Stop Safely Now’: pull off road safely, do not restart, call for help Interim actions NOW: Use ‘Auto EV’ mode only + limit charge to 80% maximum Owner notification letters: Expected to be mailed March 6, 2026 Final remedy: Under development — not yet available All repairs: FREE. No cost to owners. This is federal law. Check your VIN: NHTSA.gov/recalls — Ford Escape affected VINs searchable from Feb. 18, 2026 Ford also has active recalls on 2017–2019 Explorer (suspension) and 270K+ EV/hybrid vehicles (rollaway risk) |
Resources & Contact Information
- NHTSA VIN Recall Lookup: NHTSA.gov/recalls
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-888-275-9171)
- Ford Customer Service: 1-866-436-7332 (Monday–Friday 8AM–11PM EST; Saturday 8AM–8PM EST)
- Ford Recall Center: ford.com/support/recalls
- NHTSA SaferCar App: Free download for iOS and Android — sends automatic recall alerts
- Ford Roadside Assistance: 1-800-241-3673
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