Hatchback/liftgate Support Device problems of the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport

Rear liftgate window completely shattered. Vehicle was parked and been so for 3 hours. Temperature was about 60 degrees. There was no visible cracks or other defects. Was witnessed by several people. Did not just crack or break. It shattered into thousands or pieces. Was not being opened or closed. Vehicle was completely static.

Left rear liftgate hinge failed/broke; liftgate glass almost fell off completely (but was still partially attached via right hinge). This happened when vehicle was parked. No obvious signs of "wear and tear"; liftgate hinge had been used normally for several years. Many other NHTSA reports list this defect (04v442000). Ford issued a recall several years ago (04s20), but it only covers a very specific and limited range of VIN numbers; mine was excluded. Many other 2003 Ford Explorer Sport owners report the same problem, yet nothing has been done to remedy this problem or compensate the affected owners for their losses. I had to pay "out of pocket" at a local private shop to get my hinge repaired.

Rear lift gate panel cracked while vehicle was parked. Concerns with unstable rear glass, ability of hatch to remain closed and operation of rear wiper. Glass instability a concern while driving and when using liftgate. Prior injuries have been reported.