The Recall Desk
SevereNHTSA·25V687000·Announced 2025-10-10

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

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. 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
Hazard
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

Same manufacturer · Ford Motor Company

See all →

Same hazard · loose fasteners

See all →