Amid growing safety concerns, prominent auto manufacturer, Ford, is moving ahead to initiate one of its biggest voluntary recalls. The prolific recall, affecting nearly 2 million of its SUVs, specifically, the Ford Explorer model, has been borne out of fears of critical parts flying off while the vehicle is in operation.
Between 2011 and 2017, the company used materials to construct the SUV which have now been found to degrade over time. This degradation ultimately results in pieces breaking off in transit, posing significant safety risks to motorists. Moreover, an alarming number of consumers reported instances of component failure, further necessitating the sweeping recall.
The threat lies in a cosmetic roof rail cover, specifically designed for the Ford Explorer. Over time, these covers are suspect to loosening and, in certain scenarios, completely detaching from the vehicle during motion. The potential for such a catastrophe during high-speed travel has prompted the automaker to take swift and necessary action.
Studies conducted by the automaker revealed that this issue is not exclusive to one model but affects several Explorer variants including the XLT, Police Interceptor and the Sport specification. With the manufacturer having pinned down the cause to materials degradation, the recall aims to replace all affected parts and reinforce the assembly integrity in these SUVs.
Some of the regions primarily affected by the recall include North America and U.S. territories, with a staggering number of 1.2 million vehicles affected in the United States alone. While there are about 153,000 affected vehicles in Canada, the recall extends to about 25,000 in Mexico.
The recall from Ford is not simply a response to isolated incidents. It follows hot on the heels of ongoing investigations by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The federal agency had been examining reports of detached chunks of roof rail covers in Ford Explorers for some time before Ford’s initiative.
Detailed instruction regarding the recall process will be provided via direct mail to all affected clients starting from June 28. The affected clients are advised to take their vehicles to the nearest Ford dealership, where replacement roof rail covers will be installed free of charge. The new covers are designed from better-resilient material to ensure the structural integrity and long-lasting performance.
In the wake of this recall, Ford is reiterating its commitment to delivering safe, quality vehicles. Acknowledging the inconvenience caused, it is nonetheless intent on ensuring the welfare of its patrons, stating: “Your safety is our top priority.”
This recall underscores the vigilance of automakers in an age where vehicle safety is paramount, and the active role companies must take in safeguarding the interests of their consumers. Furthermore, it serves as a stark reminder of the critical role of robust materials in automobile construction, and the potential consequences should they be compromised.
Undoubtedly, the recall posts a considerable financial and reputational setback for the auto giant. However, its resolute reaction to the situation, prioritizing customer safety above all else, serves as an important reminder of the real worth of corporations – their ability to ensure the safety and satisfaction of their customers above all else.