Ford has announced a recall of nearly 1.9 million Explorer SUVs due to a safety issue where the windshield trim panels can come loose and potentially fly into the path of other drivers. The problem involves clips that hold these panels in place, which have reportedly been coming loose. Ford estimates that this issue affects about 5% of the recalled Explorers.
The recall covers 1,889,110 Ford Explorer SUVs from the 2011 to 2019 model years, according to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Ford has reported 568 complaints regarding this issue and over 14,000 warranty claims about missing or detached parts. Fortunately, the automaker has not received any reports of crashes or injuries related to this problem.
U.S. regulators started investigating the issue a year ago after receiving more than 160 complaints. Initially, Ford decided against issuing a recall, considering the part too small to be significant. However, regulators pointed out that if the part flew off, it could increase the risk of a crash, both for the Explorer and vehicles traveling nearby.
Owners of the affected Explorers will receive recall notifications starting March 13. Ford advises these owners to have their vehicles inspected by a local dealer once the necessary parts are available. Dealers will check that the clips are properly engaged and use adhesive to secure them.
In the U.S., checking if your vehicle is subject to a recall is simple. You can enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA’s website. Alternatively, owners can contact the NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153).