HIGH

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

  1. Check if your vehicle is a 2025 Explorer or Aviator.
  2. Verify if a recall notice or VIN indicates 25C42 status.
  3. 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
  • Ford will perform repairs at no charge

Safety Guide

Not sure what to do next? Our guide walks you through the process step by step.

Read: How to Report an Unsafe Product

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Safety Assessment

Risk LevelHIGH
Severity Score
7/ 10
Affected Groups
GENERAL
Injury Types
OTHER

Product Details

Brand
Model Numbers
Explorer
Aviator
Report Date
August 22, 2025
Recall Status
ACTIVE

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