Rear Suspension Defect Prompts Major Recall
Ford Motor Company is recalling 412,774 Explorer SUVs in the United States after identifying a potential fracture in the rear toe link that could result in reduced steering control and increase crash risk.
The recall applies to certain 2017–2019 Ford Explorer models. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said dealers will replace the defective toe links at no cost to vehicle owners.
According to the recall filing, Ford is aware of two global incidents possibly linked to the issue, in which vehicles struck guardrails or other barriers following toe link failure. No injuries have been reported.
Additional Recalls Over Safety Concerns
In a separate action, Ford is recalling an additional 40,655 vehicles due to battery-related problems and brake pedal defects that could also raise the likelihood of a crash.
The automaker issued more than 100 recalls in 2025, the highest total among U.S. car manufacturers. Earlier this year, Ford recalled over 116,000 vehicles, including certain Ford Escape (2013–2019), Ford Focus (2013–2018) and Lincoln MKC (2015–2016) models, because of a fire hazard tied to faulty engine block heaters.
Industry-Wide Recall Activity
Other automakers have also faced safety-related recalls in 2026. Rivian Automotive recalled 19,641 R1 vehicles, including 7,031 R1S SUVs and 12,610 R1T pickup trucks, due to a potential rear suspension reassembly issue following service work.
Meanwhile, General Motors recalled more than 43,000 Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac vehicles because of a transmission control valve defect that could cause rear wheel lockup.
Stock Performance and Valuation
Ford shares have gained 19.9% over the past six months, slightly trailing the 22.8% growth recorded by the Zacks Automotive-Domestic industry index during the same period.
From a valuation standpoint, Ford trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 0.32, significantly below the industry average of 3.34, suggesting relative undervaluation on that metric.
Recent consensus estimates for Ford’s 2026 and 2027 earnings per share have edged slightly lower, with analysts trimming projections by a cent over the past month.
