With the possible exception of problematic camera systems, one of the bigger issues Ford has been facing in recent months is detaching exterior trim, which has plagued more than one model. That list includes the 2016-2017 Ford Explorer, which was recalled this past June after the automaker discovered that in certain models, the driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while the vehicle is in motion. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had previously opened an investigation into this matter, and now, it’s doing precisely the same thing with the 2019 Ford Flex.
The NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) unit has officially opened an investigation into the 2019 Ford Flex after it received five customer complaints alleging that the B-pillar trim pieces on those vehicles became detached. This reportedly happens without warning, while driving at highway speeds, which can obviously cause a road hazard and increase the risk of a crash or injury.
One of those five complaints alleges that the trim piece detached from the owner’s vehicle and wound up hitting a vehicle towing a trailer on the highway, in fact. The NHTSA notes that this problem may not be limited to 2019 Ford Flex models, either – rather, it’s also aware of similar complaints pertaining to 2016-2018 Flex models, but for now, the investigation remains focused on the 2019 model year, which has thus far experienced a higher rate of failure than others.
That doesn’t mean NHTSA is ignoring previous model years, however – rather, the agency is assessing those models as peers to the investigation, seeking to determine if there are any similarities or differences in the models that may account for variances in terms of trim piece detachments. This preliminary evaluation will determine the scope and severity of the issue, as well as any potential safety-related problems, after which we may very well see a recall for impacted models, as has historically been the case.
A way to deal with worn out physical controls.
It's in great condition, too.
The automaker showed off six different potential body styles.
It's a cheap and quick repair, thankfully.
The facility is set to undergo a major transformation.
The shocks can be upgraded or replaced, as needed.
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We'll, they can't blame me. I retired from the plant in 2015!! But, I do remember those parts were a pain in the ass to attach at times.