Component
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
What Happened
The latch on the rear liftgate of your vehicle is the mechanism that keeps the gate shut while you're driving. Unfortunately, in certain 2001-2005 models, it's not strong enough to keep the gate closed in a crash.
Risk if Unfixed
If you forget to lock the liftgate and get into a crash, it could swing open, which could cause injury or damage to people or property.
Free Fix
Your dealer will replace the faulty latch mechanism with a stronger one, free of charge. You should schedule the repair as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
CERTAIN 2004-2005 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND CERTAIN 2001-2003 SPORT UTIITY VEHICLE HAVING REAR LIFTGATE COMPONENTS SERVICED WITH 2004 EQUIVALENT COMPONENTS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 206, 'DOOR LOCKS AND DOOR RETENTION COMPONENTS.' THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCHING SYSTEM DOES NOT MEET THE INERTIA LOAD REQUIREMENT IN ONE DIRECTION.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
IF THE LIFTGATE IS LEFT UNLOCKED, THERE IS THE POTENTIAL THAT IT MAY OPEN DURING A CRASH.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCH RELEASE ROD, THE RELEASE ROD ATTACHMENT CLIP AND THE DOOR HANDLE RETURN SPRING. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →