Over 300,000 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator Models Recalled for Unlatching Seat Issue

6%—or approximately 18,280—of the 304,662 recalled Ford vehicles may have a defective seat latch mechanism, prompting a widespread safety recall by Ford Motor Company.

This recall includes certain 2020–2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator models and was issued due to a defect involving the second-row easy-entry seat switches.

The 2025 Ford Lincoln Unlatching Seat Issue may lead the seat to unlatch, fold, or slide unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion, posing a serious safety risk to occupants.

What’s Wrong with the Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator Back Seats?

In affected vehicles, the trim bezel surrounding this switch may be misaligned. When this happens, the switch can stick or remain engaged, leading to the seat unlatching and moving unexpectedly, even while the vehicle is in motion.

This type of unintended movement poses a risk to passengers, particularly during sudden stops or in the event of a crash, as an unlatched seat may not restrain occupants properly.

Although Ford has not received any reports of injuries, over 100 complaints have been filed regarding the issue.

The Ford Lincoln Seat recall involves 304,662 vehicles, including model years 2020 through 2025 for both the Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator. Approximately 6% of these—about 18,280 vehicles—are estimated to have the defect.

What To Look Out For if Your Vehicle Is Affected

If you own a Ford Explorer or Lincoln Aviator that may be affected by the recent seat recall, there are several signs and precautions you should be aware of while waiting for your official recall notice.

One of the most noticeable warning signs is if the second-row seat moves on its own—folding, sliding, or unlatching without any input, particularly while driving or braking. This kind of unexpected movement is a clear indicator that something is wrong.

Another thing to check is the easy-entry switch on the side of the seat. If it feels loose, stuck, or doesn’t return to its original position after being pressed, it could be malfunctioning due to the underlying issue.

Also take a look at the trim bezel—the plastic frame surrounding the switch. If it looks crooked, detached, or out of alignment, it may be interfering with the switch’s normal function.

Unusual sounds such as clicking, popping, or shifting noises coming from the seat area during turns or stops could also point to a problem.

If second-row passengers report feeling the seat shift unexpectedly, that should not be ignored.

Ford’s Remedy for the Back Seat Recall

To address the problem, Ford is initiating a recall to inspect the seat trim bezel and replace it if needed at no cost to the owner.

This component will be checked for misalignment or any interference that may cause the switch to stick or remain engaged. If the bezel is found to be defective, it will be replaced with a redesigned part intended to eliminate the risk of unexpected seat movement.

Interim recall notification letters began mailing on June 23, 2025, informing owners of the potential issue.

A second notice will follow once the redesigned parts become available, which is currently expected in August 2025.

The recall is identified under Ford recall number 25S67, which can be used when contacting a dealership or Ford customer service.

To move forward, vehicle owners should schedule a service appointment with their local Ford or Lincoln dealership.

You can also verify whether your vehicle is affected by visiting nhtsa.gov/recalls and entering your VIN. For additional assistance, contact Ford Customer Service at 866-436-7332.

What to Do If the Recall Doesn’t Resolve Your Issues

If your Ford Explorer or Lincoln Aviator continues to experience back seat problems after the recall repair, there are several important steps you can take to ensure the issue is properly addressed.

1. Document All Service Attempts: Keep thorough records of every visit to the dealership. This includes repair orders, technician notes, dates and times, and, if possible, photos or videos showing the issue.

2. Go Back to the Dealership: Return your vehicle to the dealership and explain that the problem wasn’t fixed by the recall repair. Request a re-inspection, and if they claim the vehicle is performing as intended, ask for that determination in writing.

3. Contact Ford Directly: Call Ford’s customer service line at 866-436-7332 and reference recall number 25S67. If the dealership is unable to resolve the issue, ask to escalate your case within Ford for further review.

4. File a Complaint with NHTSA: If the problem remains unresolved, submit a complaint at nhtsa.gov/complaints. This helps federal regulators monitor ongoing safety concerns and may prompt additional investigations.

5. Consider Lemon Law Options: If your vehicle has been in the shop multiple times for the same defect, you may qualify for compensation under your state’s lemon law. Depending on the circumstances, this could mean a vehicle replacement or a refund. It may be helpful to consult a lemon law attorney to evaluate your case and guide you through the process.

Each state has its own requirements, so taking timely and well-documented action is essential if the defect continues after the recall repair.

If your Ford Explorer or Lincoln Aviator remains unsafe or unreliable due to this seat issue, seeking legal guidance may be an important step toward finding a resolution:

Affected Vehicle	Average Lemon Law Settlement
Lincoln Aviator	$82,459
Ford Explorer	$48,639

Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.

Take Action Today with the Lemon Law Experts!

The recent recall involving over 300,000 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator SUVs raises serious safety concerns for owners—particularly regarding second-row seats that may unlatch or move unexpectedly while driving.

If your vehicle has undergone repeated repairs for this issue or other defects while under warranty and the problems remain unresolved, you may be protected under your state’s lemon law.

Depending on your situation, you could be eligible for a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash compensation.

Refunds and replacements are typically subject to a usage deduction based on the mileage before the defect first appeared.

If a replacement vehicle is offered, adjustments may apply if the substitute model differs in value. Importantly, many state lemon laws also require the manufacturer to pay your legal fees and costs if your claim is successful—allowing you to pursue a claim with zero out-of-pocket cost.

Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have helped thousands of consumers with vehicle warranty and lemon law claims.

Our experienced team offers personalized legal support and works aggressively to secure the outcome you deserve—whether that’s compensation, a new vehicle, or another legal remedy.

If your Ford Explorer or Lincoln Aviator remains unsafe or unreliable even after recall repairs, don’t wait.

Call the Lemon Law Experts at (877) 885-5366 or fill out our short online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you move forward with confidence.