Your Ford Escape’s Liftgate Cover Could Fly Off at Highway Speed—Here’s What You Need to Know
Will Ford pay if your liftgate cover flies off and causes an accident? Ford just recalled 108,762 Escape SUVs because liftgate hinge covers may detach from the vehicle while driving, turning into dangerous road debris. The recall affects 2020-2022 and 2025 models with panoramic roofs.
What’s Breaking Loose on Your Ford Escape?
The plastic covers on your liftgate hinges—the pieces near your rear roof—weren’t secured properly at Ford’s Louisville plant. For 2020 to 2022 vehicles, liftgate hinge cover attachments were not fully engaged in some instances during vehicle assembly. For 2025 models, detachment may result from loss of adhesion between DUAL LOCK™ attachment feature and the vehicle’s panoramic roof frame due to a supplier quality issue.
These aren’t big pieces, but at highway speed they become projectiles for whoever’s behind you.
Ford Knew About This in 2021
Here’s what matters: Ford was aware of the potential safety issue since July 2021 after its investigators looked into concerns of loose or detached liftgate hinge covers. Back then, Ford decided it wasn’t serious enough for a recall.
What changed? As of November 21st, 2025, Ford is aware of 1,835 warranty claims of the liftgate hinge cover becoming detached from vehicles. That number forced their hand.
Ford is not aware of any reports of accidents or injuries related to this condition—yet. But NHTSA classifies detached parts as road hazards that increase crash risk.
Which Escapes Are Affected?
- 2020-2022 Ford Escape with panoramic roof (102,350 vehicles)
- 2025 Ford Escape with panoramic roof (6,412 vehicles)
- Built between November 2018 and April 2025
- Only 6% of recalled vehicles actually have the defect
Your VIN became searchable on NHTSA’s database December 3, 2025. Call Ford at 1-866-436-7332 or check your VIN online.
Warning Signs Your Cover Is Loose
You’ll notice:
- Cover sits uneven or proud instead of flush with the roof
- Extra wind noise at highway speeds
- New rattling from the tailgate area
- Visible gap between cover and roof
If you see any of this, don’t wait for Ford’s letter. Get it checked today.
The Fix Is Free—But There’s a Wait
Dealers will have the liftgate hinge covers removed, inspected, and reinstalled/secured to the vehicle. Missing/damaged components will be replaced. There will be no charge for this service.
Timeline:
- Interim letters mail January 15-22, 2026
- Remedy letters mail date: TBD
- Free inspection and repair at any Ford/Lincoln dealer
Ford hasn’t announced when repair parts will be available. The delay means tens of thousands of Escapes will stay on the road with loose covers for months.
Your Rights Under Federal Law
Vehicle recalls fall under the National Traffic Safety Act. When NHTSA issues a recall:
- Manufacturers must fix defects at no cost to you
- You don’t need proof of purchase or warranty
- Fixes include parts and labor
- Rental cars during repairs depend on the dealer
If a detached cover causes an accident before you get it fixed, document everything. Ford’s awareness since 2021 matters in any injury claim.
What This Recall Really Means
Ford has now issued over 140 recalls in 2025, according to NHTSA data, the highest number in a single year by any automaker. The Escape alone has had multiple safety recalls this year.
Ford initially dismissed this issue as low-risk because the parts are small and lightweight. But 1,835 warranty claims in under six years tells a different story. Parts flying off vehicles at 70 mph don’t need to be heavy to cause crashes—they just need to distract other drivers or make them swerve.
The real issue: Ford knew about detaching covers for four years before deciding they posed an “unreasonable risk” requiring a recall.
What You Should Do Right Now
- Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov or call Ford at 1-866-436-7332 (recall number 25SD6)
- Inspect your covers—if they’re loose, book service immediately
- Avoid highway speeds if you see warning signs
- Document any issues with photos and dates
- Don’t pay for any recall-related repairs
If your cover already detached: File a complaint with NHTSA at 888-327-4236. This creates an official record if you need it later.
If you were in an accident caused by someone else’s detached cover: You may have a product liability claim against Ford. Get the other vehicle’s VIN and check if it’s part of the recall.
FAQs
Do I have to take my Escape to the dealer where I bought it?
No. Any Ford or Lincoln dealer can do recall work for free, regardless of where you bought the vehicle.
What if my cover already fell off?
Schedule service immediately. Ford will replace it at no charge. File a NHTSA complaint to document the incident.
Can I still drive my Escape safely?
If the covers look secure and flush, you’re probably fine. If you see gaps, hear rattling, or notice wind noise, get it checked before driving at highway speeds.
Will this affect my Escape’s resale value?
Open recalls can lower resale value. Get the fix completed and keep your repair documentation.
What if the cover falls off again after repair?
Contact Ford immediately and file another NHTSA complaint. Recurring defects after recall repairs may indicate a larger manufacturing issue.
Does my insurance cover damage if my cover hits another car?
Your liability coverage should cover damage your vehicle causes to others. But if Ford knew about the defect since 2021, they may share responsibility.
Can I get reimbursed if I already paid to fix this?
Yes. Ford has a reimbursement plan on file. Call 1-866-436-7332 with your repair receipts.
The Bottom Line
This isn’t just loose trim. It’s a safety defect Ford knew about for four years while parts kept detaching from thousands of Escapes. Now they’re scrambling to fix over 108,000 vehicles without enough replacement parts ready.
Don’t wait for Ford’s letter in January. Check your VIN today, inspect your covers, and schedule service if you see any warning signs. The fix is free, but only if you act before a flying cover causes an accident.
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
Read more about Sarah