The problem
Certain 2004-2005 sport utility vehicles and certain 2001-2003 sport utiity vehicle having rear liftgate components serviced with 2004 equivalent components fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 206, 'door locks and door retention components.' the rear liftgate latching system does not meet the inertia load requirement in one direction.
The risk
If the liftgate is left unlocked, there is the potential that it May open during a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the rear liftgate latch release rod, the release rod attachment clip and the door handle return spring. The recall began on March 31, 2005. Owners should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-602 (04V602000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 04C09 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Latches/locks/linkages › Doors › Latch |
| Report date | December 20, 2004 |
| Owners notified | March 31, 2005 |
| Vehicles affected | 262,113 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the locks & latches
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-602 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the rear liftgate latch release rod, the release rod attachment clip and the door handle return spring. The recall began on March 31, 2005. Owners should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 262,113 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.