Ford Motor Company seems to be stealing the spotlight yet again with another historic recall involving 132,000 Lincoln Aviator SUVs. The reason for this particular recall is that there are trim pieces that may detach while driving, posing a serious threat to all road users. The recall sees affected windows having easily detachable pieces near rear window division bars and C-pillar trims in all affected 2020 through 2025 Lincoln Aviators model years. Due to pressure from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall has been issued to minimize the risk of danger for all Lincoln Aviator SUV drivers and road users.
Understanding the trim flaw
Insufficient bonding can be blamed for this recall, which can be spotted on the SUV’s rear doors and windows. The trim components, often made of glass, can potentially separate while driving. The detachment while in motion may prove to be hazardous to vehicles behind the SUV or to unsuspecting pedestrians.
Ford has attributed this flaw to low application pressure during the assembly process that took place at their supplier, Cooper Standard Automotive Inc. When Ford first identified the problem back in 2022 and 2023, the problem was seen as a low-risk problem. However, thereafter, the loose C-pillar appliqué found on a test vehicle in April 2025 opened up further investigations. Ford Motor Company then noted the severity of the problem, more so when the vehicle was in motion.
According to NHTSA reports, there have been 1,105 warranty claims filed globally. Thus far, there have been no accidents and injuries reported.
Which models have been affected by the recall?
The Ford Motor Company also recently issued a new recall over potential oil leaks; however, this particular recall mainly affects the Lincoln Aviators from the 2020 to 2025 model years. All in all, 132,914 vehicles have been affected, and this figure is inclusive of U.S.-built vehicles from the Chicago Assembly Plant and those produced by Ford’s joint venture in China.
While so many vehicles have been recalled due to the flawed trim pieces, the company feels that a mere 3,2% of all vehicles will experience the issue. The reason for the mass recall was to identify which of the Aviators are affected. Furthermore, the flaw poses a great risk to other vehicles, drivers, and pedestrians, and hence the full-scale recall. The Ford Motor Company has issued such a wide-scale recall to ensure that trim pieces which are inclusive of glass components do not lead to road damage or cause accidents.
What actions should Ford Lincoln Aviator drivers take?
The first step would be for all Ford Lincoln Aviator drivers of the affected model years to schedule an inspection at a Ford dealership. Part and parcel of the inspection would be the assessment of rear window division bars and C-pillar appliques. Parts will be repaired if they indicate that they are close to loosening or detaching completely. All the repairs will be done at no added cost to the driver.
Important dates for Lincoln Aviator SUV drivers to take note of
As per the recall, a few dates must be kept in mind, so drivers of the affected vehicles know how to react.
- July 22, 2025: Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) for affected units can be used by users to see if they are affected.
- July 28 to August 1, 2025: Initial notification letters will be mailed to all affected owners.
- The second notice will follow as soon as the replacement parts become available.
In a relatively short space of time, Ford issued a recall for the Ford Explorer and the Lincoln Aviator due to an unexpected seat flaw. Yet again, the Lincoln Aviator, which has come to be known as the Explorer’s upscale twin, is now undergoing yet another round of safety inspections. All affected Ford owners should take action and ensure that all the necessary repairs are done.
For more information about this recall, check the report 25V-407 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
