Ford Explorer Recall 2026 Expands as Ford Recalls 288000 SUVs Over Loose Roof Rail Safety Issue
Ford Explorer Recall 2026 Expands a safety recall covering 288,314 Explorer SUVs after regulators and the carmaker found continued problems with roof rail covers that might loosen or come off with the vehicle in motion. The action impacts some 2016 through 2019 model year Explorers, including those cars that had a prior adhesive-based fix. A dislodged cover could end up on the road itself, creating a hazard and increasing the chance of a crash for other road users. Ford says it has no associated injury claims, but is aware of one claimed collision.
Ford Explorer Roof Rail Recall for 2016 to 2019 Models
The Ford Explorer roof rail recall covers SUVs made between September 19, 2014 and March 3, 2019. NHTSA campaign number 26V448 and Ford recall number 26S54 covers vehicles with painted, satin-chrome or chrome roof rail coverings that may lose gripping strength over time. Ford thinks the fault may affect roughly 1% of the recalled population, but owners should still check their individual vehicle identification number, as the SUVs involved weren’t made in a straightforward VIN sequence.
Why Roof Rail Covers Can Become Loose
This recent move is the latest in a series of initiatives to solve the same exterior trim issue. In 2020, Ford started a customer satisfaction programme that involved attaching loose covers with a two-part epoxy or adhesive. In a 2021 safety recall on some units, painted roof rail coverings were replaced with push-pin fasteners made of plastic for a more secure fix.
The 2026 examination discovered that some automobiles repaired with glue still showed weaker retention. In the instance of damaged clips these may not have been replaced or the glue may have been put in the wrong position, amount or curing conditions. Ford also said that unrepaired plated covers might become loose over time through heat cycles and natural wear and tear. The vehicles fixed with the push-pin procedure were functioning as designed.
Warning Signs That Drivers Should Never Ignore
Before a cover splits, owners may hear increased wind noise, squeaking or rattling from the roof area. You might also notice a gap or misalignment between the cover and roofline, another symptom that the portion is loosening. If you notice these warning signs, don’t try to fix it yourself or take it to any mechanic. Contact your Ford or Lincoln dealer for instructions.
NHTSA reached out to Ford in March 2026 following a study of 46 owner questionnaires about loose, rattling or detached roof rail coverings. That interaction led Ford to look again at the issue and review repair records and component performance from April through June.
Here’s How Ford Plans to Fix Affected SUVs
Dealers will inspect the roof rail covers and check to see if the extra push-pin fasteners are already in place. With the fasteners in place no more work should be needed. Otherwise technicians will replace any damaged coverings or broken clips and attach each side with four additional plastic push pins. Your examination and any repairs needed will be done at no cost to you.
When Recall Notices Will Be Sent To Owners
The recall report says that VINs included by the recall were to be searchable July 16, 2026. Interim notice letters are anticipated between August 24 and August 28, and repair-ready letters will be scheduled from September 21 to September 25. Owners can check their VIN using NHTSA’s recall tool, contact a Ford or Lincoln dealer or call Ford and cite recall number 26S54. When you schedule the free inspection quickly, you can help to avoid an outside part from becoming a hazard to other motorists on the road.
Sources
- NHTSA: Ford estimates 1% of the 288,314 Ford Explorers recalled under recall 26V448 from model years 2016-2019 are defective.
- Cars.com: Dealers will check the covers and fix or replace broken clips, push pins or entire covers at no cost to owners.
- Motor1: The NHTSA said there were 46 owner complaints with Ford, and the automaker reported one claimed accident involving a detachable cover.
- Carscoops: Ford determined that previous adhesive fixes can lose retention and vehicles restored with mechanical push pins were working as planned.
- Ford Media Centre: Ford’s original 2021 safety recall fixed a problem with some 2016-2019 Explorers where roof rail coverings might come off and pose a hazard on the road.
