NHTSA Complaint #11508082 — 2017 FORD EXPLORER

"A" pillar window trim fails to remain affixed to the vehicle. After just a year of new vehicle ownership, on at least 15 different occasions, my passenger side "A" window trim or driver's side window trim would fly off while in travel. This usually occurs on the highway at any speeds exceeding 40 mph. I feel that this creates a safety issue and a financial burden as the piece and sometimes the mounting bracket have to be purchased at each incident. The safety issues are a somewhat large part of the vehicle separates and goes flying into any following traffic. The separation from the vehicle is usually a noisy and distracting affair for the operator/driver. Further, following traffic has to avoid the now airborne part. An additional safety concern is the missing part exposes the edges of the windshield, possibly affecting the integrity of the windshield, not to mention little protection from rain, water or snow. Lastly, the missing part creates a very unsightly vehicle. Attached are pictures of my vehicle without the part and my 2023-2022 eBay purchases. The document shows 6 replacements/purchases in just over a one year period. I have purchased both very expensive OEM parts and after market parts, with the same unfortunate results. I am not an engineer, but it appears that poor design allows 45+ mph wind to get under the trim, forcing it away and off the windshield pillar. Please, consult with any 2011-2019 Ford Explorer owner and I'm sure they have a similar story. I make a habit of looking at other Ford Explorers on the road and at least half the affected years vehicles are missing the windshield trim. I'm not one that complains frequently, but this is ridiculous and potentially dangerous.