Lately, I’ve been hearing this annoying rattling noise that seemed to come from the driver’s side door. After checking it out, I realized the top clip on my A-pillar was broken and had fallen down into the hole. Does anyone know where it leads and if there’s any way I could get the clip out?
What year is your vehicle? There’s a recall for loose A-pillar trim because of failed clips or adhesive.
If it’s a 2011-2019, there’s a recall for the A-pillar trim.
Can you share a wider photo? It’d help to see the whole area to understand what’s going on better.
The A-pillar trim is usually a two-piece part. You should be able to slide off one part, then unbolt the other piece to look inside. If the clip broke, though, the rattling might be from that top piece moving while driving. You might want to check if your vehicle is part of the recall.
@Tobin
Yeah, mine’s under the recall, so I took it to the dealer. They told me they’d order the parts and let me know when they’re in. It’s been three months, so I just ordered a set myself and installed them. But the top clip fell inside the hole it was supposed to clip into. Wondering if it’s even possible to get that piece out.
@Dallas
I replaced the trim on our 2017 about six months before the recall came out because they’d cracked. From what I remember, it’s just solid metal under there if you take both parts off.
Which year Explorer is this?
Those A-pillars are part of a recall.
My A-pillars are discolored. Does the recall apply in Canada, and does it cover that kind of issue? Mine’s a 2017 model.
I ended up ordering replacements from eBay or Rock Auto and followed someone’s advice to use JB Weld to install them. Haven’t had one fall off in over a year now! Only downside is if I ever need to remove it, it’ll be a pain.
I used aftermarket parts since my dealer didn’t have replacements available yet. Noticed that the top had no clip, just a tab that went into a hole. Maybe the windshield replacement I had done missed putting it back in? I put some adhesive, but it’s not as flush as I’d like. Can anyone confirm if there should be a clip up there, and maybe share a photo?
@Brett
The top clip is actually designed as a locator with a two-piece setup. The base is sonically welded to the A-pillar trim, and the clip itself detaches so you can reuse the part. But since the whole piece is glued in, reusing it usually isn’t possible.
I took mine off, added Loctite, and resealed them. No issues since.
Had the same problem. Used Gorilla Glue, and it’s been holding strong, just like the original.
Welcome to the Explorer club, lol. I’ve had to replace mine five times now. They say the recall replacements should be available in a couple of months.