Ford has announced its 64th recall of the year, involving six 2026 Ford Explorer SUVs equipped with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine after several vehicles experienced engine failures linked to connecting rod bearings.
The issue can cause the connecting rod bearings to seize, potentially resulting in engine failure and a loss of motive power. Ford identified the affected engines within a narrow production window, limiting the recall to just six Explorers.
2026 Ford Explorer Recall Involves Six SUVs
The recall affects only six examples of the 2026 Ford Explorer equipped with the standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
According to the recall report published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the connecting rod bearings may seize. Before an engine failure occurs, affected vehicles may produce a knocking noise and could experience a loss of motive power.
A possible breach of the engine block could also increase the risk of a fire.
As of August 11, 2026, Ford said 10 engines had been replaced and that it was aware of 11 warranty claims. The first warranty claim was received on March 26, 2026.
How Ford Traced the Engine Problem
Ford’s investigation began after its Internal Combustion Engines Propulsion Thermal Systems Engineering (IPTSE) Quality team notified the company’s Automotive Safety Office (ASO) on July 23, 2026, about 10 replaced Explorer engines showing signs of a seized #2 connecting rod bearing.
An investigation was opened later in July. Ford determined that all 10 replaced engines had been produced within a specific time window.
The investigation found that the 10 engines were built with crankshafts produced at the Dearborn Engine Plant during the same approximately 30-minute period after a polishing shoe used in the production process had been replaced.
The recall report states: “Plant process data shows a shift in the mean for certain Crank Pin #2 measurements for crankshafts produced within this time window. Root cause of the mean-shift has not been determined to date.”
Ford submitted the recall on August 13, 2026.
Recall Covers a Small Number of Explorers
The recall is limited to six Ford Explorers. Ford sold 126,925 units of the SUV during the first half of 2026 alone.
The affected vehicles were traced to the specific production window identified during Ford’s investigation.
What 2026 Ford Explorer Owners Should Do
Although the recall affects only a small number of vehicles, the potential engine defect can be serious. A vehicle that loses power at higher speeds could present a safety risk.
Owners of affected Explorers should listen for knocking noises, which could indicate that engine failure is possible.
Ford will contact owners this month, with notification letters expected to be sent by August 26. Owners of 2026 Explorers can also contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for more information.
Owners can alternatively search the NHTSA site using their vehicle identification number (VIN) to determine whether their vehicle is included in the recall.
Ford will replace the engine long block on affected vehicles at no charge to customers.
Ford Explorer Engine Reliability Concerns
Ford’s EcoBoost engine family does not have an impeccable reliability record, with multiple wet-belt failures reported on older 1.0-liter three-cylinder units and coolant leaks affecting some 1.5L and 2.0L engines.
The 2.3L engine used in the Explorer appears to be quite solid, while the limited scope of this latest recall does not warrant widespread concerns about its reliability.
