The problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The roof rail covers may come loose and detach from the vehicle.
The risk
A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the roof rail covers and as necessary, repair or replace the push-pins, rail clips, or roof rail covers, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 28, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S54. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 21V316. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 26V-448 (26V448000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 26S54 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Structure › Body |
| Report date | July 14, 2026 |
| Vehicles affected | 288,314 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the body & structure
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 26V-448 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the roof rail covers and as necessary, repair or replace the push-pins, rail clips, or roof rail covers, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 28, 2026.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 288,314 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.