Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator recalled over loose trailer hitch bolts
Ford is recalling 1,412 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles because the trailer hitch assembly bolts may be loose, risking loss of control or trailer detachment while towing.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).
The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.
Our severity reasoning: Scored 4 under the structural vehicle defect criterion: loose hitch fasteners can cause loss of vehicle control or trailer detachment while towing.
Plain-English summary
Ford is recalling certain 2024-2026 Explorer and 2024-2026 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The trailer hitch assembly bolts may be loose.
NHTSA lists the consequence as follows: while towing a trailer, loose trailer hitch bolts can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control, or cause the trailer to detach; either condition can increase the risk of a crash. The affected component is trailer hitches. The campaign number is 25V687000 and the potential number of units affected is 1,412.
Dealers will inspect and tighten the trailer hitch bolts, or replace them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed 29 October 2025.
Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA3.
The recalled product
- Product
- FORD, LINCOLN EXPLORER, AVIATOR
- Brand
- FORD
- Manufacturer
- Ford Motor Company
- Category
- Vehicle — SUV
- Affected units
- 1,412
Is your product affected?
Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.
Model numbers (2)
- EXPLORER
- AVIATOR
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
Related recalls
Same brand · FORD
- HighFord Recalls F-Series Trucks Due to Tailgate Cable Failure Risk
NHTSA · 2026-10-20
- Severe
- Severe
- HighFord Recalls 2015 Transit Connect Vehicles for Rearview Camera Defect
NHTSA · 2026-10-06
- HighFord Recalls 2026 Rangers for Rearview Camera Display Failure
NHTSA · 2026-09-22
Same manufacturer · Ford Motor Company
See all →- SevereFord Recalls Lincoln Hybrid Vehicles for Transmission Defect
NHTSA · 2026-10-20
- SevereFord Recalls ABS Modules With Incorrect Software Programming
NHTSA · 2026-10-20
- High
Same hazard · loose fasteners
See all →- SevereLucid Air half-shaft may disconnect from the drive unit
NHTSA · 2026-03-26
- HighStryker sagittal saw attachment cover screws may loosen and detach
FDA (Devices) · 2026-03-25
- Severe
- SevereHonda motorcycle handlebar lock screw may loosen and detach
NHTSA · 2026-03-12
- HighHyundai IONIQ battery bus bar may be improperly tightened
NHTSA · 2026-02-05
Similar recalls
- Severe
- SevereFord Explorer front subframe mounting bolts may be improperly tightened
NHTSA · 2025-05-09
- Severe
- HighFord Explorer seat belt buckle anchor bolts may be improperly secured
NHTSA · 2025-02-14
- High2020-2021 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator motor mount fastener recall
NHTSA · 2020-12-17
- HighFord Explorer second row seats may unlatch or slide while driving
NHTSA · 2025-06-13