The Ford Explorer roof rail cover recall applies to selected 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 model-year SUVs manufactured from Sept. 19, 2014, through March 3, 2019. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists the campaign as 26V448, while Ford identifies it as recall 26S54. NHTSA estimates that approximately 1 percent of the recalled population may have the defect.

Because the vehicles were not produced in a simple VIN sequence, owning an Explorer from one of the listed model years does not automatically mean the SUV is included. Owners must check the vehicle identification number to confirm its recall status.

The problem involves decorative covers fitted over the Explorer’s roof rails. Some vehicles previously received an adhesive-based repair under Ford customer satisfaction program 20N11. Ford’s investigation found that this repair depended heavily on correct action by technicians. In some cases, damaged retention clips may not have been replaced. The adhesive may also have been applied in the wrong location, in an incorrect amount, or under unsuitable curing conditions.

Ford determined that years of heat cycles and normal wear may weaken the retention clips for the covers. Drivers may receive warning signs before a cover separates. These can include stronger wind noise, squeaking, rattling, a visible gap, or misalignment between the roof rail cover and the roofline. Anyone noticing these symptoms should contact an authorized Ford or Lincoln dealership for an inspection rather than attempting a temporary adhesive repair.