Recalls continue to mark the year for Ford in the United States. Now, the manufacturer confirmed a new campaign that involves 288,314 units of the Explorer corresponding to the 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 models, after detecting a problem in the roof rail covers that, over time, could come loose while the vehicle is in circulation.

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This is the company's 57th recall in 2026, a figure that reflects the intense correction activity that the manufacturer has maintained on different models.

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Although the affected component seems minor, authorities consider that a detached piece could become a danger to other vehicles traveling on the road.

How to identify the problem

Before the trim comes off completely, some homeowners may notice warning signs.

These include an increase in wind noise when driving, small creaks coming from the top of the vehicle, vibrations in the roof or a visible separation between the cover and the body.

If the deterioration continues, there is a possibility that the part could be ejected while the truck is moving. According to the documentation delivered to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of the United States, this scenario increases the risk of incidents for those traveling behind the vehicle.

A previous repair did not resolve all cases

The investigation also revealed that some of the Explorers included in this campaign had previously gone through repair processes related to the same problem.

In 2020, Ford launched a program to correct loosening of these covers using a special adhesive. A year later, the brand modified the procedure and incorporated four plastic fasteners on each side to improve the fixation of the moldings.

However, the most recent review found that some interventions were not performed according to established specifications. Among the findings were clips that were not replaced, incorrect amounts of adhesive, applications in the wrong areas or curing times that were not respected, which ended up affecting the effectiveness of the repair.

What Ford will do with affected vehicles

The new campaign officially began on July 16, 2026 with the notification to dealers and the activation of the query by VIN number. Between August 24 and 28, owners will receive information letters to find out if their Explorer is part of the recall.

Inspection and repair will be completely free. The technicians will verify if the vehicle already has the plastic fasteners incorporated in previous campaigns.

If the system meets specifications, it will not be necessary to intervene on the truck. If not, they will replace damaged clips, replace any damaged covers, and install new fasteners to permanently secure the crown molding.