The Trim of this Lincoln SUV Can Actually Detach While You're Driving | Carscoops

      Almost 133,000 Aviators may have trim that isn't securely attached, allowing door bars and C-pillar components to break free.

      Lincoln is recalling 132,914 Aviators due to the potential detachment of some trim pieces while driving.

      The door and C-pillar trim on select 2020-2025 SUVs did not receive sufficient adhesive when manufactured.

      Ford-Lincoln dealers plan to repair or replace the affected trim on these Aviators later this year.

      Ford's quality issues are becoming increasingly severe. The company has already announced more recalls in the first half of this year than it managed throughout all of 2024, and we're reporting on new recalls almost daily. The most recent concerns the Lincoln Aviator, where the trim appears eager to detach.

      Trim Issues

      Close to 133,000 of these large, luxurious SUVs are involved in a recall because trim pieces on the doors and C-pillars may come loose. Ford suspects that the 2020-2025 models made between October 19, 2018, and May 30, 2025, lacked enough bonding material to secure the trim, leading to some parts coming unstuck. Over time, factors such as wind, vibration, or temperature changes could cause the trim to entirely detach from the vehicle.

      While this situation is far less alarming than the F-150 Lightning issue, where ball joint nuts could detach and result in a total loss of control, the NHTSA is worried that falling trim from the Aviator could pose a road hazard and lead to accidents involving other vehicles.

      Initially, Ford dismissed concerns about trim becoming a road hazard in 2023, but changed its stance two years later after further testing and discussions with the NHTSA. However, the manufacturer reports being unaware of any crashes or injuries linked to this defect.

      Beyond safety worries, discovering your $80,000 SUV missing various trim pieces after simply driving down a smooth road is frustrating and disappointing for Aviator owners, especially when they could have opted for brands like Lexus, Volvo, or Audi instead.

      Ford plans to start notifying the registered owners of the 132,914 affected Lincolns on June 28 about the issue, although the fact that the automaker has already received over 1,100 warranty claims suggests some owners may have already noticed it. A follow-up letter will be sent later regarding the repair, but Ford has not provided a timeline, as it is still working on a solution.

      This is understandable considering the multitude of other quality issues that need addressing. This trim problem marks the third recall related to the Aviator we have reported on this month, following previous concerns about a second-row seat that might move unexpectedly during a crash and a radio software issue that was previously mismanaged.