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According to Foxbusiness, reports from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicate that Ford is recalling a total of 548,463 vehicles due to a hazardous interior defect. The recall centers on the center console of certain 2018-2024 Ford Expedition models, where chrome trim may degrade over time.
Safety risks and reported injuries
The primary concern involves the chrome plating on the center console, which can bubble and peel. This degradation process leaves behind sharp edges that pose a direct risk of injury to occupants who come into contact with the interior surfaces while driving. The NHTSA noted that this condition is not merely cosmetic but represents a physical hazard for passengers.
The regulator highlighted several concerning data points regarding the severity of the defect:
- Ford is aware of one reported accident and 65 total injuries linked to the issue.
- Five out of six Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) specifically alleged hand injuries from contact with peeling chrome.
- Some reports indicate that customer lacerations were severe enough to require professional medical attention.
Manufacturing failures and remedy
The defect appears to stem from a manufacturing oversight involving third-party suppliers. The NHTSA report suggests the chrome trim was produced using parameters that failed to meet Ford's specific quality standards. The automotive parts suppliers identified in the investigation are Xin Point and Forvia.
Ford first identified a trend of bubbling and peeling on 2019-2020 model-year Expeditions in September. To address the safety risk, the automaker will provide inspections and replacements for the center consoles at no cost to the owners. Notification letters are scheduled to be mailed out starting June 29, with follow-up correspondence expected in January once a permanent remedy is fully deployed.
This recall underscores the ongoing challenges of maintaining interior material integrity across large production runs. By addressing these sharp edges now, Ford aims to mitigate further liability and ensure passenger safety within its flagship SUV lineup.