Ford Recalls 2025-2026 Explorer Models Over Headlight Software Defect

What Happened

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2025-2026 Explorer vehicles due to a software defect in the Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) system. The system software may cause the passenger-side headlight to turn in the wrong direction when the vehicle is driving through curves in the road. This malfunction means the vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, which governs lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.

Which Products Are Affected

The recall affects approximately 71,544 units. The specific vehicles involved are:

• Make/Model: Ford Explorer
• Model Years: 2025 and 2026

What You Should Do

Ford will update the headlight control module software free of charge. This update can be completed by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed by March 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s internal reference number for this recall is 26C12. Additionally, Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on the NHTSA website on March 5, 2026.

Why This Matters

A headlight that turns in the incorrect direction can result in increased glare to other road users. This reduces visibility for others and increases the overall risk of a crash.

Source

Information provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Campaign Number 26V121000.