INDIANA – Ford recalls nearly 1.9 million Explorer SUVs in the U.S. because a trim piece can fly off and create a hazard for other drivers.
The recall covers Explorers from the 2011 through 2019 model years.
Owners will be notified starting March 13.
Documents posted Wednesday by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration say that clips holding the trim that covers the roof support close to the windshield can come loose.
If that happens, the trim piece can fly off and increase the crash risk.
The recall comes after U.S. regulators investigated the problem last January after receiving 164 consumer complaints. Canadian regulators also inquired about the problem.
Documents say Ford initially decided against a recall, citing the part’s low mass. However, the company proceeded after U.S. regulators determined the problem was a safety hazard.
Ford said in a statement Wednesday that it expects only 5% of the recalled Explorers to be affected by the problem. It encourages owners to contact dealers for an inspection when parts are available.
The company said in documents that it knows 568 consumer complaints and more than 14,000 warranty reports alleging that the parts were missing or detached. Ford said it is unaware of any crashes or injuries from the problem.
Dealers will inspect the trim pieces to ensure the clips are engaged and add adhesive to hold them in place.
