Did you hear about Ford Explorer recalls? Automotive giant Ford has announced a recall of Ford Explorer SUV models due to a safety issue that could cause windscreen trim panels to detach and block the path of other drivers.
According to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall affects vehicles between the 2011 and 2019 model years, and it is stated that the clips holding the panels in place have loosened. Here are all the details…
Ford Explorer recalls: Why were the vehicles recalled?
Ford resolved the issue, affecting around 5 percent of recalled Explorers, after receiving 568 complaints and more than 14,000 warranty reports of missing or detached parts. Although the carmaker is not aware of any collisions or injuries resulting from the problem, US regulators launched an investigation 12 months ago, and more than 160 complaints were logged at the time.
Ford initially decided not to issue a recall, considering the part to be of insignificant size. However, US regulators argued that if the part ejected, it could increase the likelihood of a collision between the Explorer and any vehicle traveling behind or near it.
From 13 March, owners of affected Explorers will be notified of the recall. Affected owners should have their vehicles inspected by a local dealer once the necessary parts are available. The dealer will ensure that the clips are in place and will use adhesive to secure the clips.
To check if the recall covers your vehicle, enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on NHTSA’s website. For more information, owners can also contact NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153).
In summary, Ford has recalled approximately 1.9 million Ford Explorer SUVs due to a safety issue that could cause the windscreen trim panels to separate and block the path of other drivers. The clips that hold the panels in place have reportedly loosened, and Ford will fix the problem, which affects about 5 percent of the recalled Explorers. Owners of affected Explorers will be notified of the recall starting 13 March, and affected owners should have their vehicles checked by a local dealer when the necessary parts are available.
Featured image credit: Philip Stieber / Unsplash
