Ford windshield wiper failure has prompted a recall of an estimated 422,613 model year 2021–2023 trucks and SUVs, for which the remedy is not yet available.
Ford and Lincoln owners affected by the recall will receive an interim notification between April 13, 2026 to April 17, 2026. In the meantime, Ford and Lincoln dealers have been instructed not to demonstrate or deliver any new in-stock vehicles included in this recall.
The recall comes after 1,538 warranty reports, 11 field reports and three customer service reports associated with the windshield wiper defect.
Which Ford and Lincoln Vehicles Are Included in the Windshield Wiper Recall?
Ford Recall 26S24 includes the following vehicles:
- 2021–2023 Ford Expedition
- 2021–2023 Lincoln Navigator
- 2022–2023 Ford Super Duty trucks
Only Certain Vehicles Are Affected
The Part 573 Safety Recall Report specifies certain vehicles within the following production ranges:
- 2021–2023 Ford Expedition: October 25, 2021 through December 31, 2022
- 2021–2023 Lincoln Navigator: October 25, 2021 through December 29, 2022
- 2022–2023 Ford Super Duty: October 21, 2021 through December 31, 2022, depending on model year and assembly plant (Affected models: F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550 and F-600)
What is Wrong With the Windshield Wipers?
Windshield wipers may become damaged, operate erratically, stop working or detach from the vehicle completely. Drivers may initially notice erratic wiping speeds of the driver-side or passenger-side wiper arms. Malfunctioning or broken windshield wipers could impair visibility for drivers.
Recall documents indicate that the wiper arm’s latch retention plate, which keeps the arm head seated to the wiper arm properly, may not have been installed correctly during production. This wiper defect allows for malfunctions or detachment from the vehicle.
The recall document states that the knurl and wiper arm head, which are supposed to grip each other, may not consistently fit tightly enough due to small differences in manufacturing.
“Proper knurl-to-arm head teeth engagement ensures robust wiper arm operation,” the Part 573 Safety Recall Report states. Without it, the wiper arm may not function consistently, leading to the issues mentioned in the recall.
What is the repair for Ford’s windshield wiper recall?
Ford dealerships will replace the windshield wiper arms when repairs become available. An inspection process for the faulty wiper arms is still being developed. However, the recall states that wiper arms that do not pass inspection will be replaced.
Replacement windshield wiper arms will have the correct staking of the latch retention plate and wiper arm splines produced within proper specifications.
How Can I Check Whether My Vehicle Is Included?
You can check whether your Ford or Lincoln vehicle is included in Ford Recall 26S24, also identified as NHTSA Recall 26V-204, by:
- Entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in NHTSA’s recall database. Owners can also search by license plate number.
- Checking the Ford database or Lincoln database, depending on your vehicle make.
- Contacting your local Ford dealership or Lincoln dealership for more information.
In the meantime, keep an eye out for mailed recall notices. Recall notification letters should include additional information and instructions for affected vehicle owners. Ford’s dealer notice also states that owners of record will be notified by first-class mail within sixty days, which may occur before a remedy is available.
Ford Recall Contact Information
Ford and Lincoln owners may report vehicle issues or seek additional recall information through the following resources:
- Ford’s Customer Service: 1-866-436-7332
Owners may call Ford for information about open recalls or other customer service concerns. - NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236
Drivers may contact NHTSA to report vehicle issues or submit safety complaints.
Ford owners may also contact their local Ford or Lincoln dealerships, which they can find using Ford dealership or Lincoln dealership directories.
What Owners Should Do Next
If you notice erratic windshield wiper operation or have had a windshield wiper detach from your vehicle, contact your nearest Ford or Lincoln dealership to discuss the recall and schedule service if needed. In the meantime, use extra caution when driving in rain or snow. If you receive a recall notice from Ford or Lincoln, follow the instructions provided.
References
- (2026, March 31). Windshield Wipers May Fail. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. https://www.nhtsa.gov/?nhtsaId=26V204000
- (2026, March 31). Part 573 Safety Recall Report 26V204. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2026/RCLRPT-26V204-7221.pdf
- (2026, April 6). Windshield Wipers May Fail. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2026/RCAK-26V204-1208.pdf
- (2025, April 3). NEW VEHICLE DEMONSTRATION / DELIVERY HOLD – Advance Notice Safety Recall 26S24. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2026/RCMN-26V204-1618.pdf
