2016 Ford Explorer Windshield Trim Recall

Last Updated on December 14, 2023 by Skylar Drift

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Overview of the 2016 Ford Explorer Windshield Trim Recall

The 2016 Ford Explorer Windshield Trim Recall was issued by Ford Motor Company in response to a potential safety issue with the windshield trim of certain 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles. This recall affects a specific number of vehicles manufactured between January 19, 2016, and April 26, 2016. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the recall, including the background information, reasons for the recall, implications for vehicle owners, steps to check if your vehicle is affected, and what to do if your vehicle is affected.

Background Information on the 2016 Ford Explorer Windshield Trim

The windshield trim is an essential component of the vehicle that helps to secure the windshield in place and prevent water and debris from entering the vehicle’s cabin. In certain 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles, it was discovered that the windshield trim may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle body during the manufacturing process. This could result in the trim becoming loose or detached, potentially creating a safety hazard while driving.

Reasons for the Recall

The recall was initiated by Ford Motor Company to address the safety concerns associated with the loose or detached windshield trim. If the trim becomes loose or detached while driving, it could obstruct the driver’s vision or create a distraction, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, loose trim could also pose a risk to pedestrians or other vehicles if it were to detach completely and become a road hazard.

Implications of the Windshield Trim Recall

For owners of affected 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles, the recall has several implications. Firstly, there is a potential safety risk associated with the loose or detached windshield trim, and it is important to address this issue promptly to ensure the safe operation of the vehicle. Secondly, the recall may result in inconvenience for vehicle owners, as they will need to take their vehicle to a Ford dealership for inspection and potentially repair or replacement of the windshield trim.

How to Check if Your Vehicle is Affected

To determine if your 2016 Ford Explorer vehicle is affected by the windshield trim recall, you can check the vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN is a unique 17-digit code that identifies the vehicle and can be found on the driver’s side door jamb or on the lower corner of the windshield on the driver’s side. Once you have located the VIN, you can visit the Ford Motor Company website and enter the VIN into the recall lookup tool to see if your vehicle is affected.

Steps to Take if Your Vehicle is Affected

If your 2016 Ford Explorer vehicle is identified as being affected by the windshield trim recall, it is important to take the following steps:

1. Contact your local Ford dealership: Once you have confirmed that your vehicle is affected, contact your nearest Ford dealership to schedule an appointment for an inspection.

2. Follow the dealership’s instructions: The dealership will provide you with instructions on how to proceed. They may ask you to bring in your vehicle for an inspection or provide further information on the repair or replacement process.

3. Cooperate with the dealership: During the inspection, cooperate fully with the dealership’s technicians and provide any necessary information they may require. This will help them to accurately assess the condition of the windshield trim and determine the appropriate course of action.

4. Follow the recommended repair or replacement process: Depending on the condition of the windshield trim, the dealership may recommend repair or replacement. It is important to follow their recommendations to ensure the safety and integrity of your vehicle.

Repairing or Replacing the Windshield Trim

If the dealership determines that the windshield trim of your 2016 Ford Explorer vehicle needs to be repaired or replaced, they will handle the necessary steps to ensure the work is completed properly. This may involve applying additional adhesive to secure the trim, or in some cases, replacing the entire trim with a new one that meets the required specifications. As a vehicle owner, it is important to entrust this task to trained and certified technicians to ensure the quality of the repair or replacement.

Safety Concerns and Precautions

While waiting for the windshield trim recall inspection and repair, it is important for vehicle owners to be cautious and take certain safety precautions. These include:

1. Avoiding excessive driving: Limit your mileage and avoid unnecessary long trips until the vehicle has been inspected and, if necessary, repaired or the trim replaced.

2. Maintaining a clear view: Regularly clean your windshield to ensure a clear view while driving. Any obstructions or distractions should be immediately addressed.

3. Checking for any signs of detachment: Periodically inspect the windshield trim for signs of loosening or detachment. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact your dealership promptly to schedule an inspection.

4. Reporting any incidents: If you experience any issues related to the windshield trim, such as detachment or obstruction of view, report it to your dealership and document the incident.

Ford’s Response to the Recall

When the windshield trim recall was announced, Ford Motor Company took swift action to address the issue and ensure the safety of its customers. Ford has notified owners of affected vehicles about the recall and provided instructions on how to check if their vehicle is affected and what steps to take if it is. Additionally, Ford has instructed its dealerships to inspect and, if necessary, repair or replace the windshield trim on affected vehicles at no cost to the owners. This demonstrates Ford’s commitment to customer safety and satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 2016 Ford Explorer Windshield Trim Recall

1. Q: How can I check if my 2016 Ford Explorer vehicle is affected by the windshield trim recall? A: To check if your vehicle is affected, you can visit the Ford Motor Company website and enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) into the recall lookup tool.

2. Q: What are the potential safety risks associated with the loose or detached windshield trim? A: The loose or detached windshield trim could obstruct the driver’s vision or create a distraction while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. It could also pose a risk to pedestrians or other vehicles if it becomes completely detached and becomes a road hazard.

3. Q: What should I do if my vehicle is affected by the recall? A: If your vehicle is affected, contact your local Ford dealership to schedule an appointment for an inspection. Follow their instructions and cooperate fully during the inspection and repair process.

4. Q: Will the dealership repair or replace the windshield trim if necessary? A: Yes, if the dealership determines that the windshield trim needs to be repaired or replaced, they will handle the necessary steps to ensure the work is completed properly.

5. Q: Is there any cost involved for the vehicle owner in relation to the recall? A: No, the inspection and, if necessary, repair or replacement of the windshield trim will be done at no cost to the vehicle owner. Ford is covering the expenses associated with the recall.