NHTSA Says No to Investigating Ford Explorer Underbody Shields Falling Off
Published Date: 4/14/2026
Notice
Summary
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has decided not to investigate a safety complaint about plastic underbody shields falling off 2020 Ford Explorers. This means no new recalls or repairs are planned, so owners won’t see any changes or costs from this decision. The agency reviewed the facts carefully and found no strong reason to open a defect investigation right now.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
No recall or repairs planned
If you own a Model Year 2020 Ford Explorer, NHTSA denied the defect petition (DP25-001) filed August 14, 2025, and will not open a defect investigation now. The agency says no new recalls or repairs are planned, so owners won’t see changes or costs from this decision.
Agency finds low detachment risk
NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation reviewed complaints and manufacturer data and found a low risk of complete detachment or a projectile hazard from the underbody shields on the subject vehicles. Based on that low risk, the petition was denied and the Agency reserved the right to act later if new information arises.
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