Ford Recalls Nearly 2 Million Explorer SUVs Over Potential Risk To Other Drivers

Ford has recalled approximately 1.9 million Explorer SUVs. The recall revolves around an issue with the trim retention clips on the exterior A-pillar of a small percentage of certain model-year vehicles. The clips in the affected SUVs are potentially faulty and could cause the trim piece to detach and fall off the vehicle, possibly posing a safety risk to other drivers on the road. 

The recall notice published by the NHTSA revealed that the issue impacts select 2011 to 2019 model-year Explorers sold in the United States, with Ford clarifying that it estimates only 5% of the recalled SUVs will ultimately require the fix. As expected, owners of the impacted SUVs will receive a letter about the issue by mail, with the recall notice listing a mailing date of March 13, 2024. Owners can expect to receive a second letter later on once Ford is ready to deploy its solution. 

If your Ford Explorer is among the recalled SUVs, you may need to visit a Ford dealer once the fix is deployed; the dealer will inspect and replace the affected part (the A-pillar trim, in this instance) free of charge, assuming your vehicle ends up being one of the small percentage affected by the issue. As with most automotive recalls, you will need Ford's official intimation letter prior to the dealership visit, so keep an eye out for that letter. 

In the meantime, if you think this issue could affect your vehicle, you may also contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and reference recall number 24S02, according to the recall notice. The documents published by the NHTSA reveal that there aren't any known accidents or injuries related to this issue. Ford said in one of the recall documents that there have been more than 14,000 warranty claims related to the A-pillar trim, however.