2025 Ford Explorer, Lincoln Aviator: Exterior Lighting recall
NHTSA campaign 25V543000 · 213K units potentially affected · filed Aug 22, 2025
What's wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. When towing a trailer, the tail lights on the trailer may fail to illuminate due to an improperly manufactured body control module. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Why it matters
Trailer tail lights that do not illuminate as intended can reduce visibility to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
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. Aviator 2025 owner notification letters were mailed October 13, 2025. Explorer 2025 owner letters were mailed November 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C42.
Recall details
- NHTSA campaign
- 25V543000
- Manufacturer no.
- 25C42
- Manufacturer
- Ford Motor Company
- Component
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
- Units affected
- 213,121
- Report received
- Aug 22, 2025
- Owner letters
- Oct 13, 2025
- Type
- Vehicle
Check whether your vehicle is included with the official NHTSA VIN lookup or your dealer. Repairs for safety recalls are free.
Vehicles covered
- Ford Explorer 2025
- Lincoln Aviator 2025