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Ford Ranger Sun-Visor Wiring Fire Recall: Your California Lemon Law Rights

By Arvin MousaviUpdated July 5, 20264 min read

Ford has recalled 140,201 model year 2024–2026 Ranger trucks (NHTSA recall 26V238000, Ford reference 26S29) over sun-visor wiring that can short and start a fire. Here's what the recall covers, what to do, and when a recall like this can become a California lemon law claim.

What the recall covers

An improperly positioned sun-visor wiring harness — or excessive tape thickness — can damage the wires and cause an electrical short, increasing the risk of a fire in the A-pillar area. Owners may notice flickering or inoperative sun-visor mirror lights and overhead console lights before any smoking, melting, or fire.

What owners should do now

  • If sun-visor or overhead console lights flicker or stop working, have the truck checked promptly — that can precede a fire.
  • Follow any manufacturer guidance to park outside until the repair is done.
  • Watch for your Ford letter (phased mailings began the week of May 31, 2026) and schedule the free repair.
  • Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or ford.com, and keep every repair order.

When this recall can become a lemon

A recall isn't automatically a lemon — Ford will inspect and replace damaged wiring and add a software update for free. But a wiring fire risk is a serious safety defect. If the repair is delayed, doesn't resolve the problem, or your Ranger has other unrepaired warranty defects, California's Lemon Law may entitle you to a buyback, replacement, or cash settlement, with Ford paying your attorney fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Ford vehicles are covered by recall 26V238000?

The recall covers 140,201 model year 2024–2026 Ford Ranger trucks whose sun-visor wiring harness can short and cause a fire in the A-pillar area.

What is the fix?

Dealers check for a specific diagnostic trouble code, inspect and replace a damaged sun-visor wiring harness, and install a Body Control Module software update to prevent future shorts, free of charge. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or ford.com.

Could the Ranger wiring recall make my truck a California lemon?

Not automatically. But if the repair is delayed, doesn't resolve the problem, or your Ranger has other unrepaired warranty defects, you may have a lemon law claim — potentially a buyback, replacement, or cash settlement, with Ford paying your attorney fees.

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Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome. Every case is different and depends on its own facts.

This article is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different; for advice about your situation, consult a licensed attorney.

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