The vehicle dossier US · 2019

2019 Ford
EXPEDITIONProblems & recalls

503 distinct owner reports in the NHTSA snapshot. Transmission & drivetrain appears in 219 of them. Explore what was reported—and which official actions are on file.

Snapshot Sep 28, 2026Live NHTSA complaint API How this dossier is compiled

From the original manufacturer documents

What did the manufacturer do?

These reviewed documents are associated with this model-year. Check the stated engine, build-date, VIN and coverage conditions before assuming they apply to the car you’re considering.

Ford / Lincoln · 21N03-S4

3.5L cam phaser program

Historical deadline: Jan 2023

The document describes cam-phaser rattle after an extended shutdown or knocking at warm idle.

Both deadlines stated in this document have passed. This page explains the historical response, not a current entitlement.

Read coverage & conditions

01 / Owner-reported evidence

What owners reported.

Categories attached to 503 distinct reports. A report can mention more than one component, so category totals can overlap.

Transmission & drivetrain219 reports
Other components178 reports
Engine134 reports
Air bags24 reports
Electrical system17 reports
Body & structure14 reports
Suspension14 reports
Fuel system10 reports
Brakes7 reports
Steering6 reports
Visibility6 reports
See original component labels
POWER TRAIN213
ENGINE107
SEAT BELTS98
UNKNOWN OR OTHER45
AIR BAGS24
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING24
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM16
SUSPENSION14
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL13
STRUCTURE:BODY9
EXTERIOR LIGHTING8
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM8
SEATS6
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION6
STEERING5
SERVICE BRAKES5
SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER5
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR4
STRUCTURE4
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:CRANK/CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR3
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL3
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING3
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)2
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT2
VISIBILITY/WIPER2
WHEELS2
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC2
LANE DEPARTURE: LANE KEEP: AUTOMATIC STEERING1
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE1
CHILD SEAT1
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY1
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP1
SUSPENSION:FRONT:MACPHERSON STRUT1
SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES1
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE1
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION:PUMP1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH1
VISIBILITY1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN1
VISIBILITY:REAR WINDOW WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES1
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS1
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE1
BACK OVER PREVENTION1
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM1

These are reports made to NHTSA, not verified diagnoses. More reports can reflect more vehicles, more time on the road, or greater reporting activity.

The reporting timeline

When reports arrived.

Reports by year filed, not by the year a problem occurred. Showing the latest 8 years with reports.

Year filed (last two digits)Latest report: Sep 24, 2026
Mileage, where supplied

72,500 miles is the median among 188 reports with usable mileage. The middle half spans 52,000–93,672 miles.

This describes the submitted reports. It does not predict when a vehicle will fail.

02 / Official safety campaigns

11 recall campaigns on file.

A campaign can cover only certain production dates or configurations. The count does not tell you whether an individual car has an open recall.

Jun 24, 2026 Safety recallPOWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONCampaign 26V402000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2021 F-150 vehicles. The transmission park pawl may engage while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in park system damage.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, and inspect and replace any damaged transmission components as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 10, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in April 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S48. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 26, 2026.

Manufacturer campaign: 26S48

Read campaign 26V402000 at NHTSA
Jun 9, 2026 Safety recallSTRUCTURE:INTERIOR PANELS:CENTER CONSOLECampaign 26V368000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2024 Expedition vehicles. The chrome plating on the center console may bubble and peel, resulting in sharp edges.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Dealers will inspect and replace the center consoles as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed June 16, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S38. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 10, 2026.

Manufacturer campaign: 26S38

Read campaign 26V368000 at NHTSA
May 27, 2026 Safety recallSEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONERCampaign 26V344000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The seat belt pretensioner in the driver and/or front passenger seat may inadvertently lock the seat belt, which will not allow the belt to retract or extend.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt retractors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed June 8, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in August 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S34. This recall replaces and expands previous NHTSA recalls 24V099 and 25V197. Vehicles previously inspected or repaired under the prior recalls will need the new repair completed.

Manufacturer campaign: 26S34

Read campaign 26V344000 at NHTSA
Dec 18, 2025 Safety recallELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANELCampaign 25V886000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Expedition vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 20V263. The "Transmission Not In Park" warning message and associated chime duration are shorter than intended.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Dealers will update the instrument cluster panel software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C71. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning January 15, 2026.

Manufacturer campaign: 25SE8

Read campaign 25V886000 at NHTSA
May 23, 2025 Safety recallSEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONERCampaign 25V197000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The seat belt pretensioner in the driver and/or front passenger seat may inadvertently lock the seat belt, which will not allow the belt to retract or extend.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Dealers will replace the seat belt retractors as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S31. Some vehicles in this recall that were previously inspected under recall 24V-099 and did not have parts replaced will need to have this new recall remedy completed.

Manufacturer campaign: 25S31

Read campaign 25V197000 at NHTSA
Nov 8, 2024 Safety recallEQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELSCampaign 24V852000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Manufacturer’s stated response

Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.

Manufacturer campaign: 24C39

Read campaign 24V852000 at NHTSA
Feb 9, 2024 Safety recallSEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONERCampaign 24V099000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The seat belt pretensioner in the driver and/or front passenger seat may inadvertently deploy and lock the seat belt, which will not allow the belt to retract or extend.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Dealers will replace the seat belt retractors, as necessary. Additionally, dealers will install an HVAC drain tube elbow if it is missing. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 8, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S06.

Manufacturer campaign: 24S06

Read campaign 24V099000 at NHTSA
Jun 9, 2023 Safety recallEQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUALCampaign 23V420000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with third-row seating; and 2019-2023 F-Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 SuperCab vehicles. The owner's manual does not include instructions for adjusting or removing certain head restraints. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 202, "Head Restraints."

Manufacturer’s stated response

Ford will mail the Owner's Manual addendums that describe how to adjust and remove the head restraints for the center seating positions, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 21, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C20.

Manufacturer campaign: 23C20

Read campaign 23V420000 at NHTSA
May 8, 2020 Safety recallELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANELCampaign 20V263000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Expedition and 2019-2020 Mustang vehicles. The "Transmission Not In Park" warning message and associated chime duration are shorter than intended.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the instrument cluster, free of charge. The recall began May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S21.

Manufacturer campaign: 20S21

Read campaign 20V263000 at NHTSA
Oct 28, 2019 Safety recallSUSPENSION:REARCampaign 19V773000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The rear suspension toe link fasteners may not have been properly tightened to the frame, possibly allowing separation from the frame.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Ford has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and tighten the rear toe link fasteners, check and adjust the rear toe alignment, and inspect the rear tires for abnormal tire wear, replacing them if necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began November 14, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S36.

Manufacturer campaign: 19S36

Read campaign 19V773000 at NHTSA
Aug 28, 2019 Safety recallSEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLYCampaign 19V633000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual front seat back recliner mechanisms. Also included are certain 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanisms. The recliner mechanisms may be missing the third pawl required for seat back strength, resulting in a loose seat back. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."

Manufacturer’s stated response

Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C07.

Manufacturer campaign: 19C07

Read campaign 19V633000 at NHTSA
Check this car’s VIN at NHTSA

03 / The manufacturer’s record

Instructions. Updates. Responses.

150 distinct communications list this model-year. Showing the latest 12. A matching model-year does not establish that every engine, trim or reported symptom is covered.

Mar 25, 2026 Other25N17Advance Notice – Customer Satisfaction Program 25N17 Certain 2015-2025 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Replacement If Required After Dealer EvaluationNHTSA ID 11030282

Advance Notice – Customer Satisfaction Program 25N17 Certain 2015-2025 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Replacement If Required After Dealer Evaluation

Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING · BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS · LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION · UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11030282 at NHTSA
Nov 26, 2025 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsTSB 25-2570This article supersedes TSB 24-2165 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit various SYNC performance related concerns including but not limited to:  Display operation …NHTSA ID 11025837

This article supersedes TSB 24-2165 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit various SYNC performance related concerns including but not limited to:  Display operation concerns  Navigation inoperative  Voice recognition concerns  Phone connection issues  Dropped phone connections  Applink related performance  Travel Link not present or showing incorrect traffic  Slow system response NOTE: Ford has found some of the APIMs replaced and returned for inspection contained an outdated software level and the APIM did not require replacement. The customer concern may have been resolved by updating the APIM with latest level of software. The SYNC 3 universal thumb drive will be able to update the APIM software without the use of a scan tool and does not require the process to be monitored. Ford will be monitoring APIM replacements to confirm TSB directed software updates have been performed.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11025837 at NHTSA
Nov 12, 2025 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 54366Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. Pinpoint test HK in the Powe…NHTSA ID 11025611

Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. Pinpoint test HK in the Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) or in Section 303-14 of the Workshop Manual (WSM) has been updated to address this concern.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · POWER TRAIN. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11025611 at NHTSA
Oct 30, 2025 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsTSB 25-2476This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2132. Reason for update: update the Part List Description and Labor Times Description Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions…NHTSA ID 11024877

This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2132. Reason for update: update the Part List Description and Labor Times Description Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM) This may be due to axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve causing hydraulic circuit leaks. NOTE: If internal transmission service is required to address a concern detected with the CDF clutch cylinder following this article, technicians should carefully inspect and replace other transmission components and flush transmission fluid cooler only as necessary to confirm proper function. Add a new line to the repair order

Components: POWER TRAIN. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11024877 at NHTSA
May 5, 2025 Emissions24E13On your vehicle, the OBD monitoring system for the catalytic converter may not be operating as intended. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may illuminate on the instrument panel even though a catalytic converter repair may …NHTSA ID 11018800

On your vehicle, the OBD monitoring system for the catalytic converter may not be operating as intended. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may illuminate on the instrument panel even though a catalytic converter repair may not be necessary.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11018800 at NHTSA
Apr 24, 2025 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 53661Some 2018-2024 Expedition/Navigator vehicles equipped with 22 inch wheels, may exhibit an increased level of vibrations which can be felt while driving on a smooth road at speeds at or above 75 mph (120 km/h). Pinpoint Test G l…NHTSA ID 11017346

Some 2018-2024 Expedition/Navigator vehicles equipped with 22 inch wheels, may exhibit an increased level of vibrations which can be felt while driving on a smooth road at speeds at or above 75 mph (120 km/h). Pinpoint Test G located in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 204-04 has been developed to assist with diagnosis of this condition. When submitting a warranty claim, include all results from the Pinpoint Test.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11017346 at NHTSA
Apr 18, 2025 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsTSB 25-2132This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2023. Reason for update: update the Part List and Service Procedure Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engageme…NHTSA ID 11017140

This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2023. Reason for update: update the Part List and Service Procedure Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM) This may be due to axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve causing hydraulic circuit leaks. NOTE: If internal transmission service is required to address a concern detected with the CDF clutch cylinder following this article, technicians should carefully inspect and replace other transmission components and flush transmission fluid cooler only as necessary to confirm proper function. Add a new line to the repair order to document any additional

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11017140 at NHTSA
Apr 17, 2025 Emissions24E13Certain 2018-2021 Model Year Expedition Vehicles equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost Engine Powertrain Control Module (PCM) ReprogramingNHTSA ID 11017470

Certain 2018-2021 Model Year Expedition Vehicles equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost Engine Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Reprograming

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11017470 at NHTSA
Feb 11, 2025 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsTSB 25-2023"Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: • Harsh engagement • Delayed engagement • Harsh shift • Delayed shift • Illuminated MIL with DTCs P0751, P0752, P07…NHTSA ID 11014143

"Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: • Harsh engagement • Delayed engagement • Harsh shift • Delayed shift • Illuminated MIL with DTCs P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the PCM or TCM"

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11014143 at NHTSA
Jan 17, 2025 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 53305Some 2017-2025 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a 10R60/10R80/10R80 MHT/10R100 transmission may exhibit a whine noise at idle and/or while driving.NHTSA ID 11013132

Some 2017-2025 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a 10R60/10R80/10R80 MHT/10R100 transmission may exhibit a whine noise at idle and/or while driving.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11013132 at NHTSA
Oct 10, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 53040While performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions. While performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford an…NHTSA ID 11008948

While performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions. While performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11008948 at NHTSA
Sep 12, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 528812018-2022 Expedition/Navigator  "Park Brake Limited Function Service Required" Message In The IPCNHTSA ID 11007915

2018-2022 Expedition/Navigator  "Park Brake Limited Function Service Required" Message In The IPC

Components: SERVICE BRAKES. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11007915 at NHTSA
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Records below contain the NHTSA bulk summary unless a document-reviewed explainer is linked. A service bulletin is not a safety recall or a promise of a free repair. Records may be revised or superseded; verify the current document with the manufacturer.

04 / Agency investigations

Official inquiries.

An investigation is an inquiry into a potential concern. Its presence does not establish a defect, and a closed case does not certify a car’s condition.

Opened Nov 15, 2024 ClosedSeat Belt Retractor Pretensioner Inadvertent DeploymentRQ24015

On November 22, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation (PE) PE23021 to investigate complaints of front seat belt retractor pretensioner inadvertent deployment in model year (MY) 2019 Ford Expedition vehicles manufactured by Ford Motor Company. Some complaints alleged hearing a loud, explosion-like sound immediately followed by the seat belt tightening around the occupant’s torso area. The complaints did not state that a crash occurred that may have resulted in the deployment of the pretensioner system, suggesting that this deployment was inadvertent or otherwise unwarranted. On February 9, 2024, Ford issued safety recall 24V-099, recalling certain MY 2018-2020 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with driver and front passenger seat belt retractor pretensioners built between October 1, 2018, and June 30, 2019. Ford described the defect as a seat belt retractor pretensioner assembly that may develop corroded squib pins, resulting in high resistance or an open circuit, which could result in an inadvertent deployment of a pretensioner and an increased risk of injury due to the loss of the pretensioner’s protection and a seat belt that remains in the locked position. This recall includes 77,574 vehicles. On November 15, 2024, ODI opened this Recall Query (RQ24015) after receiving 3 complaints involving vehicles not included in recall 23V-099 but that alleged a similar failure. As a result of this investigation, Ford issued safety recall 25V-197 on March 28, 2025, to expand the scope of 24V-099 to include MY 2018-2020 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with driver and front passenger seat belt retractor pretensioners built between October 1, 2018, and July 31, 2020. This recall includes 105,322 vehicles, some of which are also included in 24V-099. Additionally, on May 23, 2025, Ford issued 25V-197 Amendment #1, which further expands the recall population’s scope for vehicles with build dates of September 2018. This amendment added 7,627 additional vehicles to the 25V-197 population. In response to ODI’s inquiries in RQ24015, Ford indicated that it cannot conclusively determine the root cause of the relevant failure. Ford was able to determine that certain pretensioners may develop corroded squib pins potentially resulting in inadvertent deployment, but it was unable to specify the cause of corrosion. Without a specific root cause, Ford assessed field performance of pretensioners to determine the scope of the recalls. ODI is aware of three vehicles that experienced pretensioner inadvertent deployment that are not included in either 25V-197 or 24V-099. Two of these vehicles are MY 2018 Lincoln Navigator vehicles built prior to October 1, 2018, and both experienced failures after more than six years of use/exposure while the recalled vehicles experienced higher rate of failures with less exposure. The remaining incident involves a MY 2021 Ford Expedition that was built after July 31, 2020. ODI is not aware of any other relevant failures in vehicles built after July 31, 2020. As such, ODI has not currently identified a safety defect trend for this issue in vehicles outside of the recalled populations. ODI will continue to monitor allegations of pretensioner inadvertent deployment in subject vehicles that are not included in 25V-197. In view of the safety recall action being taken by Ford, ODI is closing this Recall Query (RQ24015). The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Recorded closure: Jul 23, 2025

Campaign reference in the source: 25V197

Find investigation RQ24015
Opened Nov 22, 2023 ClosedSeat Belt Pretensioner Inadvertent DeploymentPE23021

On November 22, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-021 to investigate instances of seat belt pretensioner inadvertent deployment in model year (MY) 2019 Ford Expedition vehicles manufactured by Ford Motor Company. Some complaints allege hearing a loud, explosion-like sound immediately followed by the seatbelt tightening around the occupant’s torso area. The complaints do not allege a crash occurred that may have resulted in the deployment of the pretensioner system. The investigation revealed certain seatbelt pretensioners may develop corroded squib pins where the bridge wire (heating element of pyro-technic device) is welded. Extended corrosion and a partial separation of the weld may cause a high resistance or an open circuit condition to occur, potentially resulting in pretensioner inadvertent deployment. Inadvertent pretensioner deployment will result in the seatbelt being locked in position, no longer able to extend or retract as designed, which may result in injury in the event of a crash. 11 minor injuries were reported due this failure. Most injuries were bruising to the torso area caused by the rapid tightening of the seatbelt during an inadvertent deployment. On February 9, 2024, Ford filed recall 24V099 for certain MY 2018-2020 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles with production dates between October 1, 2018, and June 30, 2019. The recall remedy provides the replacement of both front seatbelt retractors if found to have a production date code within the suspect production date range. In view of the recall action being taken by Ford, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Recorded closure: Jul 29, 2024

Campaign reference in the source: 24V099

Find investigation PE23021

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