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
What to Do Now
Use this page like a recall checklist: verify the product first, then act on the official remedy.
Immediate steps
- 1Stop using the product until you confirm whether it is included in the recall.
- 2Compare the product label, model number, UPC, color, size, and purchase location against the identifiers below.
- 3Follow the official remedy from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; save photos, receipts, labels, and correspondence before contacting the company.
- 4If the product could harm a child, older adult, pet, or patient, move it out of reach immediately.
Check these identifiers
- Brand
- Ford
- Product type
- SUV
- Model numbers
- Explorer, Aviator
- Sold at
- Unknown
Recall Timeline
Key dates and source checks for this recall record.
Recall announced
August 22, 2025
Reported by NHTSA
August 22, 2025
RecallRadar source check
April 18, 2026
Consumer action
Use the official remedy and keep documentation.
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.
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.
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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
- Ford will perform repairs at no charge
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Safety Guide
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