Ford has issued a recall for 288,314 Explorer SUVs from model years 2016-2019 due to faulty roof rail covers.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that affected Explorers are equipped with roof rail covers that may become loose over time and could possibly detach from the vehicle while it’s in motion.
A roof rail cover that detaches while driving can cause road hazards for other drivers and increase the risk of a crash or injury. If the cover is beginning to loosen, you may notice a visible gap between the cover and the roofline or hear a rattling noise.
Ford issued the same recall in 2021 but now states that the adhesive may not have been properly applied or that the damaged retention clips were not replaced during the previous remedy services.
For the new remedy, Ford dealers will secure the roof rail covers with four new plastic push pins. Any broken or damaged roof rail covers will also be replaced. If your vehicle already has the additional push-pin fasteners, you will not need any further work.
If your vehicle does require service, it will be completed free of charge.
Owners with affected vehicles will be notified via mail by Aug. 28, 2026.
Manufacturers issue recalls that affect millions of drivers. While automakers do their best to notify every vehicle owner affected by a recall, they don’t always reach everyone.
To check whether your vehicle might be subject to a recall, use the easy tool at our recall center. All you need is your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate, or year, make, and model of your car to get started.
