The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a major safety recall impacting several popular Ford and Lincoln trucks and SUVs due to a defect that could cause vehicles to unexpectedly roll away.

According to the federal agency, a software glitch may cause the park system to engage while the vehicle is in motion. This unexpected engagement can severely damage the transmission’s park feature, stripping its ability to securely hold the vehicle in place. If the parking brake is not applied, this damage can lead to unintended vehicle movement or rollaways, significantly increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

The recall covers multiple model years across five Ford and Lincoln lines:

• Ford Expedition (2018–2021)

• Ford Explorer (2020–2021)

• Ford F-150 (2021)

• Lincoln Navigator (2018–2021)

• Lincoln Aviator (2020–2021)

To resolve the safety issue, Ford dealers will update the powertrain control module software. Technicians will also inspect the transmission and replace any damaged components. All diagnostics and repairs related to this issue will be completed free of charge for vehicle owners.

Important Timeline for Owners:

• August 3, 2026: Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed out.

• April 2027: Secondary letters will be sent once parts and the official software remedy become available at dealerships.

Owners seeking more information can contact Ford customer service or reference the official NHTSA recall campaign number: 26V402000.