The problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles. The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach.
The risk
A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model years. Owner notification letters were mailed between July 18, 2024 and December 16, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S02.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 24V-031 (24V031000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 24S02 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Structure › Body › Roof and pillars |
| Report date | January 19, 2024 |
| Owners notified | July 18, 2024 |
| Vehicles affected | 1,889,110 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the body & structure
- 2011 Ford Explorer body problems 110
- 2012 Ford Explorer body problems 144
- 2013 Ford Explorer body problems 439
- 2014 Ford Explorer body problems 276
- 2015 Ford Explorer body problems 410
- 2016 Ford Explorer body problems 591
- 2017 Ford Explorer body problems 659
- 2018 Ford Explorer body problems 288
- 2019 Ford Explorer body problems 150
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 24V-031 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model years.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 1,889,110 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.