Ford Motor Company has issued a recall for 492,145 vehicles across the U.S. due to a manufacturing defect that could pose a danger to drivers and others on the road. The recall, filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), specifically targets certain 2016 and 2017 model-year Ford Explorers.
What’s the Issue? B-Pillar Trim Could Detach Mid-Drive
According to official recall documents released by the NHTSA, the concern centers around the B-pillar interior trim—the vertical panel located between the front and rear doors of the SUV. A foam ring added during the assembly process is suspected of exerting too much outward pressure, which, combined with inconsistent application methods using hand rollers, may cause the trim to loosen or detach while the vehicle is in motion.
This seemingly minor cosmetic component could, in fact, become a road hazard if it dislodges at high speeds. Detached trim panels could strike other vehicles or cause drivers to swerve unexpectedly, increasing the risk of accidents.
Visible Clues and Warning Signs
Ford notes that drivers may notice early warning signs such as the trim beginning to separate at the top of the front doors. This may be visible when entering or exiting the vehicle. Some drivers may also hear unusual wind noises or rattling sounds, especially while the vehicle is moving at highway speeds.
Although no accidents or injuries related to the defect have been reported as of May 2025, the automaker is urging Explorer owners to take the recall seriously.
How Did Ford Identify the Problem?
Ford’s investigation into the issue involved a detailed review of manufacturing records from its assembly plants. The automaker traced the issue back to a production window beginning in June 2015 and continuing until April 2017, when improvements were made to the trim installation process.
The affected models were built during this period, before Ford revised its procedures to reduce outward pressure from the foam and ensure more consistent use of installation tools.
Remedy Under Development
At this time, Ford is still working on a permanent fix for the defect. In the meantime, the company has already notified its dealer network in late May and plans to begin sending interim notification letters to affected customers between June 9 and June 13, 2025.
Once a remedy has been finalized and tested, Ford will contact owners again with instructions on how to schedule a free repair at a certified Ford or Lincoln dealership.
What Should Owners Do Now?
Owners of 2016 and 2017 Ford Explorers should be on the lookout for recall notices in the mail and monitor their vehicles for any signs of trim separation or unusual noises. They can also check their vehicle’s recall status by visiting the NHTSA’s website or using Ford’s online recall lookup tool with their vehicle identification number (VIN).
Until the final repair is available, Ford recommends minimizing high-speed travel if symptoms are present and encourages vehicle owners to report any incidents or observations related to the defect.
A Proactive Step Toward Safety
Though no injuries have occurred, the recall reflects Ford’s proactive approach to addressing potential safety concerns before they escalate. As automakers face increasing scrutiny over vehicle safety standards, timely recalls such as this play a crucial role in maintaining consumer trust and preventing on-road accidents.
This recall serves as a reminder for all vehicle owners to stay informed and responsive to manufacturer communications, as even the smallest component can significantly impact road safety.
