A quarter is yet to be left, and Ford has already registered itself by becoming the first company to set a record of the highest number of vehicles recalled in 2025. More than 7 million vehicles have already been recalled by early September 2025, and this number may exceed that by the end of the year.
Ford Explorer and Aviator Recall Over Trailer Towing Issue
Due to the moisture and debris in the trailer hitch wiring, which is causing defects, and this is causing an issue with the trailer tow wiring module to short-circuiting and losing trailer lights. The dashboard of the vehicle also indicates a message related to the trailer error. Aptiv Services built the faulty body control module (BCM). The defect stems from improper soldering of the circuit boards, leading to the issues. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), impacted models are the Ford Explorer manufactured between 2020-2023, and the Lincoln Aviator of the same period.
In the Lincoln Aviator, the issue is not limited to that; inoperative windows, USB charges, mirrors, horns, glove box lights, and HVAC blowing only warm air are also the problems included in that. This is impacting everyday comfort and safety for the driver.
Chronology:
- On August 22, 2025, Ford issued an official recall after determining the trailer tail lights do not light because of the Body Control Module defect. This also indicates that this broke the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108.
- Modules produced between November 29, 2023, and June 6, 2025, are recalled, which include Explorer and Aviators.
- From 13th October 2025, Ford intends to start mailing interim safety notices to the owners.
Nature of the Problem:
- The issue is a result of faulty soldering on the printed circuit board of the BCMC, which manages trailer lights and other car features.
- Symptoms are trailers not functioning, error messages on the dashboard, and possibly other electrical faults, such as inoperative windows, mirrors, HVAC, and USB ports.
- This is a safety concern as this decreases the visibility of the trailer, making it more likely to cause accidents.
Remedy:
According to Ford, the dealers will inspect the problem and replace the BCM if needed, for free of cost. All notifications will be passed on to the dealers and owners by September 2025. In the meantime, owners are urged to check VIN via the NHTSA official recall website. They can also contact the customer service number of Ford.
- Vehicle with less than 9000 miles- BCMC will be replaced.
- Vehicle with more than 9000 miles- First, dealers will inspect and then implement the necessary steps.
- The repairs are free of charge to owners.
When Lemon Law Apply?
Even after the attempts, your vehicle is still unresolved, then you can claim Lemon Law. As per the law, if your vehicle is still showing similar issues even after a number of attempts, or has been in a repair station for more than a month, then the law provides you with can option to either get compensation, or exchange.
Filing a Lemon Law claim can be confusing; that is why it is important to have an expert attorney on your side. Sage Law Group has been helping people get what they deserve. If you have any queries related to legal concerns, then it is time to contact Sage Law Group.