Ford is recalling about 413,000 Explorer SUVs in the United States after federal regulators warned that a rear suspension component known as a toe link can fracture and cut into a driver’s steering control. The recall covers roughly 412,774 vehicles and will have dealers replace the rear toe links free of charge. Ford has also opened a separate recall that affects about 40,655 U.S. vehicles over battery failures and brake-pedal defects.
What regulators say
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has warned that the toe links may fracture and "lead to a loss of steering control," and it advised that dealers replace the parts at no cost to owners, according to Reuters. The agency filing spells out which models are covered, what dealers must do to fix the issue, and how Ford should notify owners. Drivers should expect their vehicle identification numbers, or VINs, to appear on formal recall lists and to receive mailed notices in addition to entries in NHTSA's recall database.
A longstanding trouble spot
This is not the first time Explorers have had trouble with toe links and the rear suspension. Ford's 2019 recall paperwork described a similar risk of fracture and a similar dealer fix, as detailed by Ford Motor Company. NHTSA campaign pages and manufacturer bulletins document earlier regional programs and follow-up actions for older model years, including inspection steps and replacement guidance for affected parts.
What owners should do
Owners can plug their VIN into the recall search tool on NHTSA or contact Ford customer service to find out whether their SUV is on the list. If it is, dealers will replace the toe links free of charge and complete any needed rear alignment. Keep copies of service records and watch for official owner-notification letters. Under federal recall rules, timely repairs at franchised dealers are required and must be provided at no cost.
Why officials are watching
NHTSA has stepped up enforcement on recall compliance in recent years. In 2024 the agency reached a consent order that could require Ford to pay up to $165 million for delayed reporting and recall performance, as reported by AP. Regulators pay close attention when they see repeat defects or slow repairs, and they can issue fines or additional orders if fixes lag or fail to reach enough owners. This latest recall will be judged in part on how quickly VIN lists go live and how easily affected owners can get into dealerships.
Dealers will carry out the toe-link replacements at no cost and are expected to reset wheel alignment as part of the repair. Owners should watch for notification mailings and updated VIN listings in the coming weeks. We will update this post if Ford or NHTSA release owner letters or publish a formal recall number.
