Ford announced a recall of nearly 1.9 million Explorer SUVs on Wednesday over reports of trim pieces flying off and causing hazards for other drivers on the road.
The recall affects Explorer models through 2011 and 2019, following an investigation by U.S. regulators last January that stemmed from 164 consumer complaints. Although the recall is currently only for vehicles sold in the U.S., Canadian regulators had also inquired about the issue.
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration posted documents on Wednesday detailing that the clips holding the trim pieces that cover the roof supports near the windshield can sometimes come loose, which can then dislodge and increase the risk of a crash. The documents state that while Ford initially decided against a recall due to low mass of the part, the company eventually complied with industry regulators after it was determined the issue was a safety hazard.
"An A-pillar exterior trim part that detaches while driving can create a road hazard for other road users, increasing the risk of a crash," the federal agency said in the recall documents. "Some of the exterior A-pillar applique trim clip attachments are not properly engaged due to improper assembly or repair. If this occurs, the A-pillar appliqué trim, which borders the right and left side of the windshield, may be loose, missing, or become detached."
Ford said in a statement that it expects only about 5 percent of recalled Explorers to be impacted by the problem. Vehicle owners will be notified starting March 13, but in the meantime they can contact dealers to ensure the clips are engaged. If needed, adhesive may be applied to hold them in place.
"We expect only 5 percent of the vehicle population to be affected and encourage customers to contact their dealership for an inspection when parts are available," the company said in a statement. "At that point, customers will have free access to mobile repair and pick-up-and-delivery services at participating dealerships."
Although Ford admitted in documents that it was aware of 568 consumer complaints and over 14,000 warranty reports of missing or detached parts, the company had not been informed of any crashes or injuries stemming from the problem.
