Ford recalls over 548,000 Expedition SUVs due to dangerous chrome trim
Ford has announced a massive recall covering more than 548,000 Expedition vehicles manufactured from 2018 to 2024. The cause is a defect in the chrome plating on the center console, which can peel and form sharp edges capable of injuring passengers.
An unexpected problem: not technology, but trim
Most modern recalls are related to technology and software: the camera stops showing an image, the battery monitoring system fails, or the multimedia screen suddenly goes black. Other recalls involve important mechanical components that ensure the vehicle moves. Ford’s latest recall does not fall into either of these categories. Instead, it focuses on an interior trim element that can become sharp enough to cut passengers.
The manufacturer is recalling 548,463 Expedition vehicles from the 2018–2024 model years after discovering that the chrome plating on the center console can bubble, peel, and separate from the base material. When this happens, the trim can form sharp edges capable of causing injuries.
How the problem was discovered
Ford first noticed the issue after analyzing customer complaints submitted to the NHTSA. Several owners reported peeling chrome trim on the center console, and five of the first six complaints reviewed by Ford alleged hand injuries caused by contact with sharp edges. The manufacturer could have found the same problems posted online, just as we did.
One Reddit user reported the problem about three years ago, posting a photo of what they encountered, and received several comments confirming that other owners had the same issue. “Peeling chrome trim is super convenient for removing unwanted fingertips!” wrote one commenter. “I am a service manager at a Ford dealership, and we constantly replace these chrome parts under warranty,” added another.
Why the recall took time
Initially, the company decided a recall was not necessary because bubbles and peeling are visible to passengers before the trim separates. However, a deeper investigation and additional testing forced Ford to reconsider its decision. Engineers found that components without obvious signs of the problem could still begin to bubble and peel after testing under various environmental conditions.
Photo: Ford
As of June 2026, Ford had accumulated 4,634 warranty claims, 150 field reports, 34 reports from the customer call center, and six complaints to the NHTSA potentially related to the defect. More importantly, the manufacturer reports 65 injuries and one accident related to this condition worldwide. Some owners reported cuts severe enough to require professional medical attention.
Owners of affected vehicles will be asked to contact a Ford or Lincoln dealer, where technicians will inspect the center console and replace it if bubbles or peeling are found. The repair will be performed free of charge.
2020 Expedition. Is peeling chrome trim on the center console covered under the 36,000-mile/bumper-to-bumper warranty?
from
u/PizzaRancher in
Ford
This recall is a vivid example of how even seemingly minor trim defects can escalate into a serious safety issue. Although Ford initially believed that a visual warning was sufficient, actual injuries and numerous complaints forced the company to act. The situation also highlights the importance of social media and online forums, where owners share experiences that can accelerate the detection of systemic problems. For Expedition owners, it is a reminder to carefully inspect the vehicle’s interior, even if it looks flawless from the outside, as hidden defects can pose a real threat.