Ford recalls over 133,000 Lincoln Aviator SUVs after discovering parts can detach while driving, creating potentially deadly road hazards for American motorists.
Key Takeaways
- Ford is recalling 132,914 Lincoln Aviator SUVs (2020-2025 models) due to rear door window bars and C-pillar trim that may detach while driving
- The defect stems from insufficient adhesive bonding during assembly, with Ford estimating approximately 4,250 vehicles (3.2%) are affected
- Despite 1,105 warranty claims related to the issue, no accidents or injuries have been reported as of May 29
- Ford will notify owners by July 28 and provide free repairs or replacements for the affected parts
Safety Concerns for Luxury SUV Owners
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced a major recall affecting nearly 133,000 Lincoln Aviator SUVs after discovering potentially dangerous defects. The recall specifically targets models manufactured between 2020 and 2025, addressing serious concerns about rear door window bars and C-pillar trim that could separate from vehicles while in motion. This poses significant safety hazards not only for Aviator owners but also for other motorists who might encounter these detached parts on roadways.
Ford is recalling 132,914 Aviator SUVs in the United States because parts, including rear door window bars, may detach due to insufficient adhesive retention, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said Tuesday. https://t.co/2PAEqimE5e
— NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) June 24, 2025
“Ford is recalling nearly 133,000 SUVs because some parts, including rear door window bars, may disconnect due to not enough adhesive, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration announced,” stated National Highway Transportation Safety Administration
The root cause of the problem has been identified as inadequate pressure application during the assembly process at supplier facilities. This manufacturing deficiency resulted in insufficient adhesive retention for critical components. Though Ford estimates only about 4,250 vehicles (approximately 3.2% of those recalled) actually contain the defect, the company is taking a comprehensive approach to ensure all potentially affected vehicles are inspected and repaired to prevent possible accidents.
Ford’s Response and Remedy Plan
In response to these safety concerns, Ford has committed to repairing or replacing the C-pillar appliques and window division bars free of charge for all affected vehicle owners. The automaker plans to mail notification letters to owners by July 28, followed by a second notification once the remedy becomes available. Ford has already taken steps to address the manufacturing issue, with the faulty part having been removed from production as of May 30, ensuring newly manufactured vehicles will not contain the defect.
“Dealers will repair or replace C-pillar appliques and window division bars, free of charge, the NHTSA recall notice said,” stated NHTSA recall notice
For concerned Lincoln Aviator owners seeking more information, Ford has established a dedicated contact line at 1-866-436-7332. Additionally, the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline remains available at 1-888-327-4236, and owners can visit www.nhtsa.gov for further details about the recall, which has been assigned the reference number 25S66. Until repairs can be completed, drivers should remain vigilant for any signs of the C-pillar applique or division bar separating from their vehicles.
Pattern of Quality Control Issues
This Lincoln Aviator recall is merely the latest in a series of quality control issues plaguing American automotive manufacturers. Ford previously recalled over 197,000 Mustang Mach E SUVs due to a risk of passengers becoming trapped in the back seat, and earlier this year, the company recalled nearly 400,000 trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles for various issues. This troubling pattern raises serious questions about quality control standards and manufacturing oversight in the domestic automotive industry.The components may detach due to inadequate application pressure of the components during assembly at the supplier facility that results in insufficient adhesive retention.
Despite the extensive warranty claims related to this issue, 1,105 as of May 29, Ford maintains that no accidents or injuries have been reported in connection with the detaching parts. However, the potential hazards of vehicle components detaching at highway speeds remain significant. This recall serves as another reminder of the importance of stringent quality control measures in automotive manufacturing, particularly for luxury vehicles commanding premium prices in the American market.
