Ford Recalls Over 288,000 Explorers After Roof Parts Risk Flying Off While Driving

Ford has issued a recall for more than 288,000 Explorer SUVs after discovering that plastic roof rail covers can detach at highway speeds and become dangerous projectiles. The issue affects certain 2020 through 2024 model year Explorers, and stems from a manufacturing flaw that prevents the covers from locking securely onto the vehicle’s roof rails.

According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the problem occurs when the covers are not properly seated during assembly or after service work. Over time, wind pressure can loosen them, and at high speeds they can fly off entirely. Ford has received at least 14 reports of covers separating from vehicles, though no crashes or injuries have been linked to the defect.

Owners of affected vehicles will be contacted starting in April and can bring their SUVs to any Ford dealership for a free inspection and repair. Dealers will install new, more secure clips and ensure the covers are firmly attached. In the meantime, drivers who notice loose or missing roof rail covers should contact their dealer immediately.

For more details, owners can call Ford’s customer service line or check NHTSA’s recall website using their vehicle identification number.