NHTSA Recall 20V497000: Air bags: side/window and 2 other components
Ford Motor Company reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 488 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the Ford Explorer.
| NHTSA campaign | 20V497000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | 20S48 |
| Components | AIR BAGS › SIDE/WINDOW; AIR BAGS › CRITICAL FASTENERS; SEATS |
| Report received | August 21, 2020 |
| Owner notification | September 10, 2020 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Defect
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and 2020 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The side air bag and/or seat back module attachments may not have been properly tightened in the front seat backs.
Safety risk
If the side air bag or seat back fasteners were not properly tightened, the side air bag deployment could be affected, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove front seat back panels from one or both front seats (VIN-specific) and verify that the fasteners have been properly tightened, free of charge. The recall began September 10, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S48.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Vehicles covered by recall 20V497000
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.