NHTSA Complaint #11680239 — 2016 FORD EXPLORER

I am writing to you today with an urgent and serious safety concern regarding my 2016 Ford Explorer XLT. My vehicle is affected by the A-pillar molding inspection recall, Campaign 24S02/24V031. Last week, while I was driving on the interstate, the passenger side A-pillar molding detached from my vehicle and flew off. This created an extreme safety hazard for myself and other drivers on the road. I contacted my local Ford dealership, Cloninger Ford of Salisbury, to have the recall addressed. They informed me that they cannot perform the repair because the necessary part is out of stock. This is a critical safety issue. The driver's side A-pillar molding is also loose and could detach at any time, posing the same risk. I have found the replacement part is available for purchase from various online retailers, which contradicts the dealership's claim of part unavailability. The recall documentation states that a detached trim piece can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Given that this has already occurred with my vehicle, I need an immediate and concrete solution. I am requesting a specific timeframe for when a permanent remedy will be available for recall 24S02/24V031 and when I can bring my vehicle in for the repair. The safety of myself and others on the road is at risk. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] VIN: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)