NHTSA Complaint #11593690 — 2019 FORD EXPEDITION

I am writing to urgently request the initiation of a safety investigation concerning a serious and potentially widespread defect in Ford vehicles, specifically related to the center console’s metal chrome trim on limited models. I own a Ford Expedition, purchased in October 2019, and have encountered a severe issue where the chrome plating on the center console has begun peeling away, forming sharp, dangerous shards that have already caused significant injury to myself and my children. Despite numerous attempts to resolve this issue through Ford’s customer service since first discovering the defect in 2020, the response has been dismissive, labeling the condition as "normal wear and tear." This is despite the fact that the sharp edges of the peeling chrome required medical attention on multiple occasions. The severity of this defect goes far beyond cosmetic degradation and enters the realm of serious safety hazard. Furthermore, this issue does not appear to be isolated. An examination of online consumer forums and resale platforms such as eBay reveals similar complaints from other Ford owners who note identical peeling issues in the same model and in analogous locations on the console. Historical precedence shows that similar defects in past models, like the Ford Explorer, have led to recalls. It is alarming that Ford has not only failed to recognize the defect as a legitimate safety concern but has also continued to sidestep responsibility even after the original factory warranty expired. This lack of accountability for a defect that directly impacts the physical safety of passengers and drivers is unacceptable. Given the potential risk to consumers and the apparent recurrence of this issue across multiple vehicles, I implore the NHTSA to initiate a thorough investigation into this matter. It is imperative that a recall be considered to prevent further injuries and ensure that Ford addresses this serious safety flaw promptly and effectively.