Ford recalls more than 600,000 Explorer SUVs

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• Ford Motor Co. issued a recall notice on Monday for over 600,000 Explorer SUVs over concerns that the roof rail cover may become detached.
• Affected models include 2016 to 2019 Explorers with roof rail covers painted silver or black.
• The car manufacturer also issued a recall for more than 150,000 Ford Rangers in February due to a faulty airbag system.

Ford Motor Co. on Monday issued a recall for more than 600,000 Explorer SUVs due to concerns that the roof rail covers could become detached while driving.

Affected vehicles are Chicago-built 2016 to 2019 Explorers, including the base, XLT, Sport and Police Interceptor models, specifically those with roof rail covers painted silver or black. A recall notice will be sent to customers starting June 28. The recalled Explorers will be repaired with plastic push pins, according to Ford.

In a news release, Ford said the roof rail covers “may become detached from the vehicles while driving and create a hazard for others on the road.” Though it added that the company has not received any report of accidents related to the issue.

An investigation was started in April last year by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration following complaints from 11 vehicle owners. The issue was not brought to Ford’s attention until May 2020. Ford concluded it did not present “an unreasonable risk” to safety. The company also cited that the probability of detachment is low.

Ford extended the warranty for the affected Explorers in November. It also agreed to one-time repairs on the roof rail cover for up to 10 years or 150,000 miles, according to the NHSTA.

Finally, Ford agreed to issue a full recall last month after reviewing the data presented by the NHTSA in a meeting.

Ford reportedly spent $1 billion to remodel its Chicago Assembly Plant which manufactures SUVs, including the Explorer.

The Chicago-built 2020 Explorer SUV did not fare well in the Consumer Reports’ annual reliability list rating in November. It cited issues with transmission replacements, along with drive systems, in-car electronics, body hardware, and power equipment.

Chicago has been shut since April 12 due to the computer chip shortage affecting the auto industry presently.

Source: Chicago Tribune