Ford Recalls 2025 Explorer and Aviator for Trailer Tail Light Failure (25C42)
Ford recalls 2025 Explorer and Aviator vehicles sold through Ford dealers due to a faulty body control module that can prevent trailer tail lights from illuminating. The defect may reduce visibility for other drivers when towing a trailer. Interim letters alert owners starting Oct 13, 2025, with a final remedy anticipated in April 2026. Ford will perform the repairs at no charge and provide the an
Quick Facts at a Glance
Recall Date
August 22, 2025
Hazard Level
HIGH
Brand
Ford
Category
Vehicles & Parts
Sold At
Unknown
At-Risk Groups
GENERAL
Hazard Information
Trailer tail lights that do not illuminate as intended can reduce visibility to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
What You Should Do
Dealers will replace the body control module C on vehicles with less than 9,000 miles. For vehicles over 9,000 miles, dealers will perform a functional check on the body control module C and replace it as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed October 13, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated April 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C42.
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About This Product
The Ford Explorer and Aviator are mid-to-large SUVs commonly used for family transport and towing. The recall concerns a component essential for trailer lighting safety.
Why This Is Dangerous
An improperly manufactured body control module can prevent trailer taillights from turning on when towing, reducing visibility to other drivers.
Industry Context
This recall is not identified as part of a broader industry pattern.
Real-World Impact
Owners of affected vehicles may face increased crash risk when towing. The recall offers free repair and replacement parts.
Practical Guidance
How to identify if yours is affected
Check if your vehicle is a 2025 Explorer or Aviator.
Verify if a recall notice or VIN indicates 25C42 status.
Visit NHTSA or Ford recall pages to confirm involvement.
Where to find product info
Use the VIN to verify recall 25C42 on Ford Owner site or the NHTSA recall page (25V543000).
What timeline to expect
Interim letters mailed Oct 13, 2025. Final remedy expected April 2026.
If the manufacturer is unresponsive
Escalate to Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.
File a complaint with NHTSA if the dealer is unresponsive.
Document all communications and keep copies of notices.
How to prevent similar issues
Regularly test trailer tail lights, especially before towing.
Keep vehicle software up to date as advised by Ford.
When purchasing a new vehicle, request recall clearance in writing.
Documentation advice
Maintain copies of recall notices, VIN, service records, and communications with Ford.
Product Details
Model: 2025 Ford Explorer and 2025 Ford Aviator. Recall number: 25C42. Component: Exterior Lighting: Tail Lights. Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company. Recall date: 2025-08-22. Remedy: For vehicles with less than 9,000 miles, dealers will replace the body control module C. For vehicles with 9,000 miles or more, dealers will perform a functional check on BCM C and replace it as necessary. Interim letters mailed to owners starting 2025-10-13. Final remedy anticipated April 2026. Sold at Ford dealerships nationwide. Quantity: 0 (not disclosed). Price: Unknown.
Reported Incidents
No injuries or incidents have been reported.
Key Facts
25C42 recall covers 2025 Explorer and Aviator
Tail lights may not illuminate when towing a trailer
BCM C replacement for <9,000 miles; functional check and replacement for >=9,000 miles
Interim notices begin Oct 13, 2025; final remedy expected Apr 2026
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