Ford Recalls 492K Explorers over B-Pillar Trim That Might Fly Off
Ford is recalling 492,145 Explorers because of an issue that may cause the B-pillar trim to fly off while driving.
The recall applies to certain Explorers from the 2016 to 2017 model years.
According to recall documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Ford is still working on a remedy for the recall.
Ford issued a recall for 492,145 vehicles with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) because of an issue that may cause the B-pillar trim to fly off while driving. According to NHTSA documents, the recall covers certain Explorers from the 2016 to 2017 model years.
Recall documents show that Ford's team reviewed plant records to determine the production timeline. The affected models entered production in June 2015, with improvements made to the production line in April 2017.
Michael Simari
|
Car and Driver
According to the NHTSA documents, the issue may stem from a foam ring added to the back of the B-pillar during production. Increased outward pressure from the foam ring, combined with an inconsistent use of hand rollers during installation, means the B-pillar trim could detach while driving, potentially causing a hazard for other drivers. The documents also explain that owners may be able to see the trim separating from the top of the front doors when entering or exiting the vehicle, and/or hear wind noise rattling while driving.
According to NHTSA, Ford is still working on developing a remedy for the issue. Dealer notifications took place in late May, with Ford planning to send interim owner notification letters between June 9 and June 13. Once a remedy has been developed, Ford will contact affected owners by mail and instruct them to bring their SUV to a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have it fixed for free. As of May 2025, the automaker is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to the recall.
Jack Fitzgerald
Associate News Editor
Jack Fitzgerald's love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1.
After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn't afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf. Read full bio
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