Ford Vietnam issues a safety recall for 2,446 Ford Explorers due to rear suspension issues. Check if your SUV is affected and book a free repair today.
Ford Vietnam has officially announced a safety recall for the Ford Explorer, targeting nearly 2,500 units across the country. The recall focuses on the replacement of the rear toe control arm to ensure the continued safety and performance of these premium SUVs.
The Core Issue: Rear Toe Control Arm Failure
According to the official notice, the recall affects vehicles where the rear toe control arm may be prone to breaking. This structural failure can lead to several concerning symptoms, including:
- Audible Warnings: Owners may notice an unusual “clunking” sound coming from the rear of the vehicle.
- Handling Issues: A broken arm can cause rear-wheel misalignment, leading to erratic vehicle handling.
- Increased Risk: In severe cases, compromised stability could increase the risk of collisions.
Which Vehicles Are Affected?
The recall impacts a total of 2,446 Ford Explorer units in Vietnam. These specific vehicles were manufactured at Ford’s Chicago plant in the United States between September 28, 2017, and February 25, 2019.
Ford Vietnam emphasizes that this issue was identified through proactive global quality monitoring and direct feedback from customers. Upon discovering the trend, Ford conducted an in-depth technical analysis to implement a swift and effective solution.
What Should Owners Do?
While Ford has not issued a “stop drive” order, the company strongly advises all affected owners to contact their nearest authorized Ford dealer to schedule a repair appointment as soon as possible.
Repair Details:
- Cost: The inspection and replacement of the rear toe control arm are provided completely free of charge.
- Duration: The actual replacement process is expected to take less than one working day. However, Ford notes that total turnaround time may vary depending on the specific dealer’s schedule.
- Notification: Ford Vietnam has already sent notification letters to all affected customers.
Market Context: The Explorer’s Legacy in Vietnam
Interestingly, this recall comes after the Ford Explorer has been removed from Ford’s current sales lineup in Vietnam. During its tenure, the luxury SUV was priced at approximately 2.099 billion VND, positioning it as a direct competitor to other three-row SUVs such as the Volkswagen Teramont/Teramont X, Hyundai Palisade, and VinFast VF 9.
The Explorer held a unique position as the only Ford model imported entirely from the US to the Vietnamese market. In contrast, other popular models like the Ford Ranger and Ford Everest are sourced from Thailand or assembled locally. Despite the model’s exit from the active catalog, Ford’s commitment to safety ensures that existing owners continue to receive critical technical support and maintenance.