768 of the
11,934 complaints filed about the Ford Expedition
are about the braking system —
6% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 1997.
Subject: Safety Complaint – 2018 Ford Expedition Brake Master Cylinder Recall 25S37 / NHTSA 25V236 I am filing this complaint regarding my 2018 Ford Expedition, which is subject to an open Ford brake master-cylinder recall, Recall 25S37 / NHTSA Recall 25V236. I am currently experiencing brake fluid loss around the brake master cylinder/brake booster area. Because this is directly related to the braking system and the vehicle is subject to an open brake master-cylinder recall, I believe this vehicle presents a potential safety concern and needs to be properly inspected. I contacted Ford regarding the recall and explained that I am losing brake fluid in the area of the master cylinder and brake booster. I requested that the vehicle be inspected to determine whether the recall condition is present and that the brake booster be checked for brake-fluid contamination or leakage. I was told that my vehicle is approximately six months too late to receive the recall repair/replacement and that they would not allow me to bring the vehicle in for inspection under the recall. I have not yet confirmed the part number of the master cylinder currently installed on my vehicle, and I intend to do so to determine whether it is the same component addressed by the recall. My concern is that I am experiencing a symptom that appears directly related to the component identified in the recall, yet I am being denied an inspection simply because of the timing/eligibility issue. I am requesting that NHTSA review this matter and determine: 1. Whether my vehicle should be inspected for the condition identified in Recall 25S37 / NHTSA 25V236 despite the expiration or timing issue stated by Ford. 2. Whether brake-fluid leakage around the master cylinder/brake booster area is a known symptom or consequence of the recalled component. 3. Whether Ford should inspect the vehicle and determine whether the installed master cylinder is the recalled part.
NHTSA complaint #11757338 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On August 11, 2026 at approximately 5:17 PM, the vehicle was traveling about 25–30 MPH and approaching a stop sign. The driver began braking normally, but the vehicle did not adequately slow despite repeatedly pressing the brake pedal. The vehicle continued completely through the stop sign and intersection. Fortunately, no cross traffic was present and no collision occurred. After passing through the intersection, the vehicle slowed while traveling uphill. At approximately 5 MPH, the electronic parking brake automatically applied by the vehicle and brought the vehicle to a stop. After being placed in Park, the vehicle would not shift out of Park and displayed multiple fault messages. FordPass recorded simultaneous faults for Antilock Brakes, Electronic Parking Brake, Powertrain Malfunction/Reduced Power, Pre-Collision Assist, and Blind Spot/Cross Traffic systems. One message specifically stated that the anti-lock brake system had detected a fault and was disabled. After several power cycles, the vehicle could be moved, but an orange wrench remained illuminated and cruise control was unavailable. After being shut down for approximately one hour, the warnings cleared and the vehicle appeared to operate normally. There were no warning lamps, messages, or braking symptoms before the failure occurred. Because the vehicle failed to respond normally to braking and traveled through an intersection, the incident created a serious risk of collision, injury, or death. The vehicle was subsequently towed to an authorized Ford dealership and is currently available for inspection. Dealer diagnosis is pending. The dealer has been asked to preserve the diagnostic trouble code/fault history and investigate the brake, electronic brake booster/ABS, electrical, and related control systems.
NHTSA complaint #11756496 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving over 10 MPH with her husband inside the vehicle, while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated, and the brakes independently engaged. No warning light was illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the battery was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that a software update for the rearview camera was performed. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact stated that the dealer refused to provide the telephone number for the manufacturer. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V402000 (POWER TRAIN); and the VIN was included in the recall. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 117,000.
NHTSA complaint #11755462 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am submitting this complaint regarding potential safety issues with my 2018 Ford Expedition Max Platinum. I purchased the vehicle from Sandy Sansing Chevrolet in Pensacola, Florida, and discovered several problems shortly after purchase that I believe may affect the vehicle's safe operation. Within days of purchasing the vehicle, it began displaying an intermittent **low oil pressure warning** while driving. Because a low oil pressure condition can lead to engine damage, loss of power, or engine failure, I believe this presents a potential safety concern. The dealership's inspection report completed before the sale states: **"Has multiple minor oil leaks, wet but not dripping yet."** I had the vehicle independently inspected by Firestone, which determined the oil leak was coming from the timing cover/timing case area and estimated approximately $3,000 in repairs. I am concerned that the documented oil leak and intermittent low oil pressure warning could increase the risk of engine failure while the vehicle is in operation. I have also experienced what I believe is a brake safety concern. Although the dealership's inspection report indicates the brakes and rotors had been serviced, the brake pedal feels unusually soft or spongy and requires more pedal travel and pressure than expected before the brakes engage. While the vehicle currently stops, I am concerned this condition could reduce braking performance or increase stopping distance. Additional issues include intermittent operation of the power running boards, a non-functioning rear window washer, and a detached rear window defroster electrical connection. I am submitting this complaint so NHTSA can determine whether these issues are isolated to my vehicle or may indicate a broader safety-related defect affecting other 2018 Ford Expedition vehicles. I can provide the dealership inspection report, Firestone inspection and repair estimate, photographs, and other supporting documentation upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11752452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ABS break lights and Service Advanced Trac lights flashing and beeping. Eventually Break fluid low lights came on and car would not break when driving . Leaked break fluid on driveway. Car was unable to be driven, no breaks .all happened very quickly and without any reason .i had it towed to a break mechanic and he said it was the ABS modular break line that was broken and there was no more break fluid and it had leaked out . He suggested I send it to the dealership. It sounds like the exact same issue as the recall # 25S47 on campaign 25V314 but my vin number does not fall under they but shows it is the same Kentucky plant and year so I do believe it is the same issue
NHTSA complaint #11750075 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am filing this complaint because my vehicle is exhibiting the exact failure mode detailed in Ford Recall 26S48 (NHTSA Campaign 26V402000), but my VIN is currently excluded from the recall population." A loud, heavy metal-on-metal "CLUNK" or "THUNK" right under the center console or floorboards the exact second I change gears. It feels like the transmission is violently dropping or snapping into gear. I even feel a physical jar or shudder through the shift dial and I brake pedal.
NHTSA complaint #11749102 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving the ABS system failure warning along with 2 other system warnings come on and brakes fall to the floor. My Ford expedition is experiencing the same catastrophic electronic brake booster failure as recall 25S77. The dealer updated the software and the problem continued. Its back at the dealership after happening an additional 4 time and I'm being told it $2500 to replace the electronic brake booster. My VIN is not on the recall but in experiencing the exact life-threatening system failure.
NHTSA complaint #11748150 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle has experienced repeated critical transmission failures and currently has four active Federal Safety Recalls with no available remedy. The transmission has failed four separate times, requiring four transmission assemblies within approximately 68,795 miles. The latest failure produced DTC P07F7 (Gear 10 Incorrect Ratio) and was confirmed by the Ford dealer and an independent inspector as an internal transmission failure. Symptoms included harsh engagement, delayed shifting, hesitation, slipping, and repeated powertrain malfunction messages. The vehicle was out of service for 26 consecutive days during the most recent repair. A NHTSA VIN lookup shows four active unrepaired recalls: a transmission rollaway hazard affecting the parking system (26S48), two seatbelt pretensioner recalls involving inadvertent deployment or failure to retract (25S31 and 26S34), and a chrome trim recall involving sharp edges (26S38). All four recalls currently have no remedy available, with estimated repair dates extending into late 2026 and 2027. These defects affect critical safety systems including the power train, seat belts, and parking system. The rollaway hazard recall indicates the vehicle may move unexpectedly even when shifted into Park, creating a serious risk of injury or collision. The seatbelt pretensioner recalls involve components that may deploy without warning or fail to retract, increasing the risk of injury in a crash. The chrome trim recall involves sharp edges that may injure occupants. Combined with repeated transmission failures, these issues create multiple simultaneous safety risks. The problems have been confirmed by the Ford dealer and an independent inspector. Warning symptoms occurred before each failure, including harsh shifting, slipping, hesitation, and powertrain alerts. The combination of unresolved Federal Safety Recalls and repeated transmission failures makes the vehicle unsafe to operate.
NHTSA complaint #11747617 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2025 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked with the parking brake activated, the contact’s wife returned to the vehicle and became aware that the vehicle had rolled away and crashed into a parked vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated prior to failure. There was no injury sustained. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact mentioned the vehicle was serviced prior to the failure for a tailgate issue, where the vehicle was reprogrammed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 16,000.
NHTSA complaint #11747639 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Failed Component & Availability: Ford 10R80 10-speed transmission (Power Train). Available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: My family is put at extreme risk in two ways. 1) Sudden loss of motive power, slipping, and violent engagements at highway speeds create an imminent rear-end collision risk. 2) This exact vehicle is now under Safety Recall 26S48 (NHTSA 26V402) for unintended vehicle rollaway. Ford explicitly states a remedy is not available until Q2 2027, forcing us to drive an unfixable, inherently dangerous vehicle for another year. Confirmation & Inspections: Yes, reproduced and confirmed by Tomball Ford. The latest catastrophic internal failure was physically inspected and confirmed by an independent Old Republic Auto Warranty inspector. The Tomball Ford technician explicitly documented the cause as "outdated internal components" aligning with TSB 25-2476. Warnings & Symptoms: Violent shifting, delayed engagement, and "Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power" dash warnings. The latest catastrophic failure triggered hard fault DTC P07F7 (Gear 10 Incorrect Ratio). Cause Summary: Chronic manufacturing defect inherent to the Ford 10R80 / 10R60 transmission family. This vehicle has required FOUR (4) transmission assemblies in under 70,000 miles (repairs in Nov 2022, Feb 2023, and June 2026). During the most recent failure (May-June 2026), the vehicle was out of service for 26 consecutive days. Despite 4 failed transmissions and an active unfixable safety recall, Ford Corporate just denied our request for a replacement vehicle, abandoning my family in a documented rolling hazard.
NHTSA complaint #11747151 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Description On your vehicle it is possible that the trailer module trm may lose communication at vehicle start-up. If a trm loss of communication occurs and a trailer is connected to the vehicle, trailer stop lamps and turn signal indicators will not function. Additionally, for trailers equipped with electronic trailer brakes, the trailer brakes will not function. This loss of communication can occur with-or-without a trailer connected to the vehicle and can only initiate at vehicle start-up. If this occurs, a trailer brake module fault notification will pop-up on the vehicles instrument panel cluster. The vehicle brake and turn signal lamps will continue to operate normally and are not affected by this trm fault. If you do not tow with your vehicle, you may wait for ota deployment for your vehicle remedy. Safety Risk This may result in inoperable trailer brake lights, trailer turn signals and trailer braking functions that can reduce a drivers ability to control an attached trailer and make the trailer less visible to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash. Remedy Software is available to repair your vehicle. Ford Motor Company has authorized your dealer to reprogram your vehicles trm free of charge. Next Steps Contact your dealer for more information to schedule the free service.
NHTSA complaint #11744046 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am submitting a formal consumer complaint regarding a persistent brake issue—specifically a loud squeal when coming to a stop in a 2022 Ford Expedition Max Limited purchased as a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle through Ford’s Blue Advantage Program. At the time of sale, I was assured the vehicle met certification standards, had no unresolved safety concerns, and that any recalls had been addressed. However, I later learned that Safety Recall 25S47 (NHTSA Campaign 25V-314) had been issued in May 2025—one month prior to purchase—for a front brake line defect that may cause brake fluid leaks, reduced braking performance, and increased crash risk. Despite this, the vehicle was certified and sold with representation that the recall showed “no concern.” Since purchase, the vehicle has exhibited constant brake squealing, worsening stopping performance, and reduced responsiveness. The issue occurs at every stop and persists despite replacement of front and rear brake pads and rotors. Timeline: • Apr 2024 – Prior brake-related service • May 9, 2025 – Recall issued • June 4, 2025 – Brake service prior to sale • June 14, 2025 – Purchased as certified • Within 1 week – Issue reported • June 25, 2025 – Inspection found “no concern” • July 2025 – Pads/rotors replaced • Within 2–3 months – Issue returned • Ongoing – Condition deemed “within guidelines” Multiple attempts to resolve this through the dealer, a consumer complaint organization, a state regulatory complaint, and a manufacturer repair case have not resulted in a fix. This raises concern that a vehicle with a known safety-related defect was certified and sold without proper resolution. I request investigation into whether certification standards were properly followed and whether consumer protection requirements were violated. I am seeking a permanent manufacturer-backed repair, repurchase, or other appropriate relief.
NHTSA complaint #11733754 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2017 Ford Expedition is currently at an authorized dealership (Arlington Heights Ford, IL) for a failed transmission lead frame (DTCs P0706, P0707, P1702), which causes intermittent loss of gear engagement and sudden shift issues. This specific part is subject to NHTSA Engineering Analysis EA26001. Ford is refusing to honor the 10-year/150000-mile extended coverage (Program 19N01 Supplement 4) and a separate safety recall (25S37 for Brake master Cylinder) because the Vehicle was originally manufactured for Canadian market. Despite the Vehicle being in a U.S. facility, Ford claims a 'system limitation' prevents them from bridging the VIN for these safety repairs. This is a formal refusal to remedy a documented safety defect that puts the driver and the public at risk of unintended downshifting and loss of braking power."
NHTSA complaint #11728628 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I began to brake because there was a parked car at the stop sign i was approaching. My vehicle was not stopping even though the brake pedal was pressed all the way down to the floor. 2025 Ford Expedition crashed into a parked car is a malfunctioning Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) module. Crucially, this malfunction can occur while Advanced Driver Assistance Svstems ADAS), such as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), are active, preventing the vehicle from braking as expected to avoid a collision.
NHTSA complaint #11723540 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving at 35mph, downhill with no traffic in front, behind, or oncoming, the dash flashed red and immediately the brakes were instantly applied harshly causing occupants to lunge forward into seat belt restraint. Vehicle deceleration almost to a stop. Brakes then released . Driver continued home and was afraid to continue operating the vehicle. Dealer was called and picked up the vehicle. Dealer inspected vehicle and could not find a problem. Per the service writer no recall or TSB found on this issue. Vehicle has been returned 1/26/2026. Collision avoidance system has been turned off per our request. Mileage 2458. In service date 07/26/2025.
NHTSA complaint #11713507 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vehicle: 2023 Ford Expedition XLT Max Component: Service Brakes / Hydraulic / Brake Pedal Description of the Problem: The vehicle experiences intermittent brake slippage that occurs randomly approximately 2–3 times per month. The issue happens while decelerating between 10–20 mph. When applying the brakes to slow down, the brake pedal suddenly travels further downward, as if the brakes slip or momentarily lose pressure. This significantly reduces braking confidence and control. The condition occurs without warning and is not driver-induced. When it happens, it feels as though the brakes may fail entirely. Safety Risk: This is a serious safety concern. This vehicle is our primary family vehicle and is regularly used to transport two toddlers and an infant. When the brake slippage occurs, it is frightening and creates fear that the brakes could fail while driving, potentially causing a serious accident. I do not feel the vehicle is safe to operate under these conditions. Service History / Attempts to Repair: •The vehicle is just over one year old and covered under an extended warranty. •The vehicle has been taken to two separate Ford dealerships for diagnosis. •Both dealerships stated they cannot perform repairs unless the issue happens while a technician is driving the vehicle. •I was told I must “wait until the problem gets worse” before any repair can be made. •One dealership kept the vehicle for over one week, drove it 100+ miles, and had three technicians drive it, yet reported they could not replicate the issue. Given how frequently this occurs during normal driving, it is concerning that no corrective action has been taken despite repeated complaints. Outcome / Concern: I am concerned that I am being forced to continue driving a vehicle with a known braking issue until a failure becomes severe enough to be witnessed, placing my family and others at risk. I am submitting this complaint to formally document the issue before serious accident occurs
NHTSA complaint #11711084 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While pulling out of a parking lot onto a 4 lane undivided city street, the vehicle flashed a warning light on the dash saying “Trailer Brakes Engaged” and the vehicle came to an abrupt stop in the lanes of active traffic narrowly avoiding a collision. As if the parking brake had set uncommanded. The vehicle was not and has never pulled a trailer since we’ve owned it the last 9 months. The engine was stalled but accessory was still on. After an off/on cycle the vehicle started and went into gear functioning normally. Immediately taken to a ford/Lincoln dealer. They inspected and told us they found no codes and no discernible issues with the vehicle and it was released. Will be dropped off at another ford shop in the morning to continue diagnosis.
NHTSA complaint #11704788 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
When merging on the highway in the rain the vehicle locked up on me and almost killed me. I could have been seriously injured I could not stop the car and it slid along the highway at high speeds . Luckily was able to get to the shoulder
NHTSA complaint #11702577 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I own a 2024 Ford Expedition XLT. The vehicle repeatedly loses multiple federally mandated safety systems including Blind Spot Monitoring, Cross-Traffic Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, and camera systems. Alerts include: ‘Cross-Traffic System Fault,’ ‘Blind Spot System Fault,’ ‘Pre-Collision Assist Not Available,’ ‘Front Camera Fault,’ and ‘Check Parking Sensors.’ Ford has acknowledged this as a known issue with a fix delayed until June. My dealer (Morries Ford, Buffalo MN) is charging $225 each time the defect recurs just to clear errors. This is a safety defect that places my family at risk. Ford is refusing to cover the full repair cost and the dealer is charging for temporary resets.
NHTSA complaint #11702550 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed, and there was an abnormal whining sound coming from the front driver's side wheel well. The contact had to depress the brake pedal sooner to allow more stopping distance while stopping the vehicle. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the abnormal sound occurred at speeds between 15 and 20 MPH. Additionally, the contact stated that the rear-view camera was no longer functioning. The contact stated that the image from the rear-view camera was distorted. The contact had received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V236000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention). The contact called a local dealer and the manufacturer and was advised that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had advised that the recall for the brake master cylinder, parts were on a national back order, and that the remedy for the rear view camera was also not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
NHTSA complaint #11700385 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.