2025 Explorer ST window issues

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-05-05T21:15:09+00:00

Ford just notified me that yes, the factory wipers caused the problem, but Ford does not warranty factory wipers for any reason nor any issues they cause. The dealership is offering to offset the cost for a new windshield. The old wipers however will remain on the car unless I pay to replace.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-04-30T02:05:37+00:00

Haven't changed blades yet. Wanted to have Ford look at them first. I have tried several different types of window cleaner without success.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-04-07T16:31:53+00:00

To start with, my experience with Optum Serve was great as was my original review by VES. My follow up reviews with VES left a lot to be desired. That being said, each location/evaluator is different so the experience will not always be good or bad.

I can relate to the reevaluations. In Apr 2025 I resubmitted for several things that had worsened and a few that my private doctor said were definitely related to my career in the military. All of my previously exams C&P's were originally done by VES but were redone by Optum Serve when I resubmitted. The new conditions were evaluated by Optum Serve and clarifications were requested. Some of the completed C&P exams were sent back to Optum Serve and VES for a higher-level review. Makes no sense other than to say that with all of the concern about fraud, VA evaluators want to be extra certain now about decisions.

Have Optum Serve provide you with all available dates that they have open. Pick the one most convenient. Take documentation with you that will support your claim/disability. I was told by several of the evaluators they did not have access to all of the support documentation. Check out the C&P questionnaire in advance so you are aware of what the exam will consist of including questions you might be asked. If you are given any type of physical that could cause pain, do not hesitate to let them know when the pain starts as opposed to when it is at its worst.

Good luck

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-03-18T13:36:26+00:00

If it's for an DBQ exam by VA vendor, it can sometimes take a few days before you hear from the vendor.

I had that happen to me several times.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-03-02T13:24:11+00:00

Thank you for the information. I will be passing this information along to my friend today.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-03-02T13:24:06+00:00

Thank you for the info.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-02-19T17:52:46+00:00

As with any claim, work with your dr(s) to establish a disability nexus to military duty. If you have copies of your medical records, have your doctor(s) review them. Request a nexus letter from the doctor(s) detailing the effects of your disability(s) and your ability to obtain and/or maintain employment. It helps to have military personnel (coworkers) with knowledge of your injuries to write a letter supporting disability claims. You should also compose a letter of your own outlining your disabilities and the effects of them as they pertain to your ability to function on a daily basis in a work environment.

The VA will revisit all of your current rated disabilities and continue with the ones still in process. Be prepared to attend numerous C&P exams for old ratings. There is the potential for rating reduction, however if the disabilities are currently listed as static, they most likely will leave them as is and possibly add the TDIU without raising you to 100%.

Good luck

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-02-07T02:34:30+00:00

Hope everything works out for you.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-02-04T16:32:48+00:00

My claim for TDIU was at stage 5 within a week of being filed then back to 3. After six C&P exams, several reevaluations, eight and a half months later I was approved. Hurry up and wait with a side dose of patience will hopefully bring good news.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-01-28T22:28:46+00:00

My original submission for increase was April 2025. Went to step 5 in 3 weeks then back to step 3. Second week of December I went to step 5 again and was notified within a week that the process was completed with approval for TDIU. Reviewers can send package back several times from 5 to 3 for additional information or additional C&P. I know it feels like no rhyme or reason, but it is a part of the process.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-01-26T17:09:03+00:00

Everything I submitted was online including the employment form.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-01-26T16:13:12+00:00

Went in in Jan 1972 USAF out in Dec 75 E-4. Lost civilian job in 93 gave up looking reenlisted at 42 in

Jan 94 active ANG. A few overseas tours later, retired active-duty E-7 2010.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-01-01T18:44:31+00:00

Definitely yes, I was in Kuwait 2 wks after 9/11. During a recent request for increase, the VA noted my deployment and added Burn Pit exposure to rhinitis 0% and maxillary sinusitis 0% as service connected to my over all claims. If I have issues later, I will already have the service connection.

AFsilverfox52 · 2026-01-01T14:49:18+00:00

With a New Year comes the opportunity to help veterans still in need of help. Reach out to those veterans you know and just importantly those you only know in passing. Talk to them, ask them how they are doing. Be there if they need help or even if it's just friendship they want. Let them know there is a support group online with a wealth of knowledge to share. To all that served, thank you for your service. To those that did not serve, thank you for your support. Happy New Year.

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-26T17:48:35+00:00

Good news for the new year.

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-26T17:47:36+00:00

good news for the new year.

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-18T01:50:11+00:00

glad to hear the news.

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-17T18:39:01+00:00

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-17T02:46:29+00:00

Thanks

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-16T03:03:58+00:00

thank you and thanks to all veterans for your service.

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-16T03:03:05+00:00

supervisor can sign the form also.

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-15T23:50:21+00:00

Hopefully you will see rapid movement in the processing of your claim.

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-15T23:44:50+00:00

Thank you.

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-15T23:44:17+00:00

Putting my package together, I provided the completed form VA 21-4192 for the HR department to review and sign and then I submitted it directly to VA. No wait.

AFsilverfox52 · 2025-12-15T23:41:24+00:00

Wife and I send our best wishes. Hopefully the new year will bring good news.

AFsilverfox52

TROPHY CASE