Exploding Sunroofs? What You Need to Know About the Ford Sunroof Recall

Safety is a key factor for most car buyers. You expect a vehicle to function properly, regardless of when or where you purchase it. However, there can be times when a vehicle has problems — for example, consider the exploding sunroofs of various Ford models. 

If you purchased a Ford with a defective sunroof, you might be entitled to compensation based on the lemon laws in the geographic area where you bought your vehicle. At Robison Lemon Law Group LLC, we can review your case and teach you about lemon laws. For more information, get in touch with a lemon law attorney from our law firm today. 

Common Ford Exploding Sunroof Issues and Their Potential Impact

No one expects their car’s sunroof to spontaneously explode and rain glass into the cabin. Yet, many manufacturers, warranty providers, and the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (HTSA) have seen a surge in service reports, warranty claims, and lawsuits related to exploding sunroofs in Ford vehicles. These issues date as far back as models from 2008.

Ford ranks near the top of the list in terms of reports of exploding sunroof problems in their vehicles since 1995. In addition to explosions, some of the problems with Ford sunroofs that consumers have reported include: 

• Binding
• Rattling
• Leaking

Generally, Ford follows a standard manufacturing process and uses the same material to construct its vehicles’ sunroofs. If a sunroof is defective in one Ford model, the issue affects other models. In some instances, Lincoln, Mercury, and other Ford subsidiaries tend to experience similar sunroof problems as well. 

A Closer Look at the Ford Models Affected by Exploding Sunroofs

 

The Ford models with the highest number of reports and vulnerability to broken or exploding sunroofs include the: 

• Focus
• Fusion
• Explorer
• Flex
• F-150
• Mustang
• C-Max
• Edge

NHTSA investigated the Ford exploding sunroof problem and completed its review in 2021. At this time, the agency failed to figure out why the sunroof of various Ford models was exploding. NHTSA also indicated that it lacked sufficient evidence to prove that there was a safety defect with the sunroof. 

Regardless of why a Ford sunroof explodes, it is paramount for anyone affected by this issue to report the problem immediately. You may be entitled to compensation due to your Ford model’s sunroof defect in accordance with the lemon laws in Pennsylvania or any other state where you purchased your vehicle. With help from a lemon law attorney, you can make sure your legal rights are protected against anyone that sells you a defective vehicle.  

Several Defective Sunroof Lawsuits Have Been Filed Against Ford

A lawsuit was filed against Ford in March 2017 relating to a shattering sunroof. A couple purchased a 2013 Ford Escape, and the vehicle’s sunroof spontaneously shattered. The couple alleged that falling glass from the sunroof caused face and hand injuries. 

In October 2019, a class action lawsuit was filed against Ford due to defective sunroofs that were prone to shattering. This lawsuit was part of the original case submitted in March 2017 by the couple that dealt with the defective 2013 Ford Escape sunroof. The lawsuit was ultimately dismissed from court. 

An appeals court in June 2021 ruled that the aforementioned lawsuit submitted in October 2019 did not meet the criteria for a class action case. As such, the lawsuit is moving forward, albeit as an individual claim. As of June 2023, no settlement has been reached in the case. 

Ford Sunroof Recalls That You Need to Know About

Ford Australia in March 2023 recalled 2021 Escape models due to a faulty sunroof. In the recall, Ford noted its Escape models were fitted with a panoramic roof that may have poor adhesion. If left unaddressed, this issue could cause the roof to detach from the vehicle. 

Previously, Ford in September 2021, submitted a recall for various Mustang Mach-E models. The recall related to improperly bonded sunroofs and windshields. Over 27,000 Mach-E vehicles had sunroofs that could come loose while a driver was operating the vehicle. 

Along with these recalls, in May 2020, Ford issued a sunroof recall on more than 5,000 of its Transit Connect vans built between 2014 and 2017. Ford indicated the sunroofs of these vans can leak or detach from the vehicles. The company offered free sunroof glass removal, cleaning, and installation to accommodate Transit Connect owners impacted by the recall. 

 

What to Do If You Are Dealing with a Defective Ford Sunroof

If you have a Ford model with a defective sunroof, bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop. From here, you can get your sunroof evaluated. If any repairs are needed, they can be completed before your sunroof shatters, explodes, or experiences any other issues. 

For Ford vehicle owners dealing with a sunroof recall, follow the recall’s instructions. If you choose not to do so, you risk a sunroof malfunction that puts you and others in danger. You can stay up to date on Ford model recalls on the NHTSA website.

In instances where an auto dealer sold you a Ford vehicle with a faulty sunroof, you may be able to seek compensation. Remember, there are lemon laws in New York and everywhere else in the United States. A lemon law lawyer can teach you about the local laws relating to the sale of defective vehicles, along with warranty claims.  

 

How Ford Sunroof Lemon Law and Breach of Warranty Claims Work 

If you have a faulty Ford sunroof, you may be able to submit a state lemon law and federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act claim. Lemon laws vary from state to state. Conversely, lemon law and breach of warranty claims under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act typically require a vehicle defect to:

• Undergo at least three unsuccessful repair attempts for the same issue.
• Be out of service for at least 30 days for repair.
• Be significantly impacted in terms of safety and value.
• Be first reported while the vehicle is under factory warranty.

A lemon law attorney can explain the ins and outs of lemon law and breach of warranty claims on Ford models and many others. The lawyer can answer any questions you have about these claims. Plus, the attorney can help you submit a lemon law or breach of warranty claim right away. 

Let a Lemon Law Attorney Help You with Your Defective Ford Sunroof Claim

Robison Lemon Law Group LLC can assist you with a lemon law claim based on a Ford sunroof defect. To learn more or request a free consultation, please contact us online or call us at (844) 872-9192.