NHTSA recall 04V602000

What's wrong: Certain 2004-2005 sport utility vehicles and certain 2001-2003 sport utiity vehicle having rear liftgate components serviced with 2004 equivalent components fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard no. 206, 'door locks and door retention components.' The rear liftgate latching system does not meet the inertia load requirement in one direction.

Why it matters: If the liftgate is left unlocked, there is the potential that it may open during a crash.

The fix: Dealers will replace the rear liftgate latch release rod, the release rod attachment clip and the door handle return spring. The recall began on March 31, 2005. Owners should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.