Ford 2025 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator Recalled for Loose Transmission Bolts
Ford recalls 2025 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles due to loose transmission cross member bolts. The recall covers 2025 models with a high risk of loss of drive power and potential crashes. Owners should contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332 and refer to recall 25S03 for details.
Quick Facts at a Glance
Recall Date
May 1, 2026
Hazard Level
HIGH
Brands
Ford Motor Company, FORD
Category
Vehicles & Parts
Sold At
Unknown
At-Risk Groups
GENERAL, PREGNANT, PETS
Hazard Information
An improperly secured transmission can result in a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
What You Should Do
Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission cross member bolts as necessary, free of charge. If the cross member bolts are missing, dealers will replace the cross member and install new bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 29, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S03.
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About This Product
The recall covers 2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator models. The transmission cross member bolts may be loose, potentially causing loss of drive power.
Why This Is Dangerous
A loose or missing cross member bolt can allow transmission movement or separation, reducing drive power and increasing crash risk.
Industry Context
This recall is part of standard vehicle safety remedies for structural components.
Real-World Impact
Repairs are performed at no cost. Potential downtime while repairs are completed.
Practical Guidance
How to identify if yours is affected
Check recall 25S03 status for your 2025 Explorer or Aviator
Locate recall letter or VIN status via Ford/NHTSA sites
Inspect for transmission issues described by dealer guidance
Where to find product info
Recall number 25S03; VIN lookup via Ford or NHTSA websites
What timeline to expect
Repair completed at dealer with no charge; timeline varies by dealer workload
If the manufacturer is unresponsive
Document attempts to contact dealer
File a complaint with NHTSA if necessary
Seek Ford corporate help if local dealer unresponsive
How to prevent similar issues
Keep vehicle up-to-date with recalls
Avoid aggressive driving that stresses transmission
Regular maintenance per Ford guidance
Documentation advice
Save all recall notices, service records, and correspondence with Ford or dealer
Product Details
Year: 2025; Make: FORD; Models: EXPLORER, LINCOLN AVIATOR; Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company; Component: POWER TRAIN: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION; Recall number: 25S03; Recall date: January 29, 2025 (owner letters); Status: ACTIVE; Sold to: Unknown
Reported Incidents
No specific injury or crash counts are provided in the recall data.
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