Tailgate Latch problems of the 2002 Ford Explorer

Subject: cracked panel below the rear window (tailgate appliqueãƒâ©) where: 9 degrees temperature in shiloh, illinois (15 miles east of st. Louis). Vehicle type: 2002 Ford Explorer xls 4 door wagon 6 cyl 4. 0 sohc 51,101 miles. What: the plastic appliqueムpanel below the glass on the liftgate has developed one vertical crack, approx 1/8th" in diameter running the length of the panel (approx 4. 5 inches) to the right of the "Ford" emblem. Background information: after doing some research on the internet I found over 75 owners with the same problems, most in the last 3 months (cold weather). This repair is not covered by Ford extended warranty (esp). Please visit the website listed below for other customers comments. . Read more...

Lift gate causes the body frame to split.

Crack in liftgate that occurred spontaneously when weather became winter--rear wipers were used and crack occurred. Recall was done at this area dealer summer 2005 prior to correct liftgate recall. . . . . We inquired about possible over tightening during recall service and it was denied. We have had this car since the summer of 2002 and have had it in cold weather before and up until the recall fix it never cracked. Concerned about glass falling out since the tailgate is cracked from top to bottom. The dealer asserted that it was a known problem with cracks in liftgate. . . Since we are not under warranty we had to pay $600 to get this fixed. Mileage on the car is only 23000!!!!! it is the safety issue of glass falling out while driving or falling into the car upon my children that concerns me. Many internet websites I have been to discuss other such cracks occurring in the tailgate I don't understand why some dealers are willing to help and others don't. The prices vary too which amazes me.

My 2002 Ford Explorer had it's rear glass fall off when I attempted to open it 2 days ago. I called Ford and they sounded surprised. I called them back with the information about the 50,000+ vehicles recalled for this and they remain unimpressed. I'm looking for some help. I called winchester Ford, (winchester va) 540 667 4434. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks very much, ben.