Investigation PE04045: 2002 Ford Explorer

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Jun 2, 2004

Closed

Sep 28, 2004

Model years

2002

Subject

Rear liftgate glass assembly

Component: Structure › Body › Hatchback/liftgate › Hinge and attachments

Summary

Complaints report failure of the rear liftgate glass support while the operator is opening or closing the glass.the falling glass can strike the operator or bystander.the injuries reported are bruises to the head, neck or back, cuts to the face, arm or hand.on september 9, 2004, ford notified the agency that it will recall approximately 955,732 my 2002 and 2003 ford explorer and mercury mountaineer vehicles to replace the liftgate glass strut brackets and/or hinges.see nhtsa recall 04v442 for details. This investigation is closed.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.

Model years covered

• 2002 Ford Explorer3,295 complaints