Photo Credit: iStockFord is recalling 86,543 Mustang Mach-E EVs in the United States because a manufacturing change meant to speed up assembly left rear side quarter window trim at risk of loosening, detaching, and potentially creating a hazard for surrounding traffic.What happened?The defect involves the rear side quarter window trim on Mustang Mach-E vehicles built from Feb. 17, 2023, through Oct. 8, 2024. If the bond is too weak, the piece could separate while the vehicle is being driven, InsideEVs reported.Ford linked the problem to a supplier facility in Mexico that brought in a new assembly jig to make trim installation faster. According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the reduced installation time did not give the trim primer enough time to cure, leading to an "insufficient bond."AdvertisementAdvertisementA flurry of May warranty claims involving trim that was loose or had already detached is what led Ford to identify the issue in Mustang Mach-E vehicles. The automaker knows of 219 reports tied to the issue, though it has not reported any related crashes or injuries, per the recall report.Trim separating from a moving vehicle can become a dangerous road hazard for anyone driving behind it.Why does it matter?In this case, the defect reportedly resulted from a production shortcut meant to improve efficiency.With other passenger EVs no longer in the lineup, the Mustang Mach-E is Ford's only passenger electric vehicle still sold in the U.S., as InsideEVs noted.AdvertisementAdvertisementFord has also issued another recall affecting nearly 43,000 Mustang Mach-E EVs because rear differentials on certain rear-wheel-drive models may fail, as the outlet previously reported.Car recalls are far from limited to one model or auto brand. The growing number of them across a wide range of automakers is a concerning sign for the safety and build quality of these modern vehicles.What's being done?Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect affected vehicles and replace the rear side quarter glass trim at no cost, per the recall report.Owners of Mustang Mach-E vehicles built during the affected period can confirm whether they are included by contacting a dealer or checking the NHTSA website. They should also receive letters in mid-September.AdvertisementAdvertisementGet TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.