Ford Expands Recall for Detaching Roof Rail Covers on Older SUVs

Ford Motor Company is initiating a new safety recall affecting 288,314 Explorer SUVs from model years 2016 through 2019. The action addresses roof rail covers that can loosen and detach while the vehicle is in motion, potentially creating a road hazard for other drivers. The manufacturer has confirmed that one accident has been linked to the issue.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates the problematic components are specifically the satin and chrome-plated roof rail covers. Drivers may become aware of a failing part if they hear a rattling noise or observe a visible gap forming between the trim and the vehicle roof.

This recall is the latest development in a long-running issue for the Explorer. Ford previously attempted to address similar concerns with painted roof rails through a customer satisfaction campaign in 2020 and a subsequent recall in 2021. Those earlier repairs utilized a two-part epoxy or, later, four plastic push-pins to secure the trim. At the time, the bright chrome and satin variants were excluded from the recall order due to data suggesting a lower failure rate.

However, following inquiries from the NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation in March regarding new failure reports, Ford determined that the original adhesive fix was insufficient. The automaker found that vehicles with unrepaired satin/chrome covers, as well as those previously repaired with epoxy, continued to suffer from degraded retention. Interestingly, the company notes that vehicles repaired under the 2021 recall using push-pin fasteners are performing as intended.

In separate news, Hyundai Motor Company is also recalling 47,749 Kona models. The action targets a potential defect with the rear seat belt buckle that could impact occupant safety.

What to watch

• Ford dealer notification timeline and repair instructions for the recall.
• Hyundai’s official filing regarding the Kona rear seat buckle defect.
• Upcoming earnings reports from both automakers for warranty cost provisions.

Source: original release