2020 Ford Expedition Electrical Problems

2020 Ford Expedition MAX. Ford issued Safety Recall 26S48 / NHTSA 26V402 confirming a transmission park pawl defect causing potential rollaway and crash risk. Remedy not available until Q2 2027. Vehicle has experienced the exact defect symptoms since at least November 2025 including stuck-in-park diagnostic codes and shifting anomalies. Prior to November 2025 the transmission failed to execute a commanded shift at approximately 65mph while passing another vehicle on an expressway causing sudden unexpected deceleration with family members present — a near-miss consistent with the park pawl defect Ford now confirms. An authorized Ford dealer visit in June 2026 for computer reprogramming included verbal acknowledgment of transmission concerns but no documentation on the repair order. Eight days later Ford issued Recall 26S48. Separately this vehicle has generated over 1,400 Restraints Indicator Lamp Warnings logged in Ford’s own connected vehicle app since at least April 2023. Restraints warnings began within 30 days of purchase at under 400 miles. Ford issued Recall 26S34 / NHTSA 26V344 for Front Seatbelt Retractor inspection on this vehicle. On multiple dealer visits spanning 2021 to 2026 service advisers verbally acknowledged the restraints warning but documented no concern and performed no diagnostic action on repair orders. Ford’s telematics platform received all warnings in real time with no proactive owner notification. Remedy not available for either recall.

NHTSA ID

11751145

Incident

Jun 25, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled on several occasions, and the instrument panel turned blank, forcing the contact to coast to the side of the road to restart the engine. Additionally, when shifting from Park to Drive, the vehicle shuddered violently and unintendedly shifted into Park. The contact associated these failures with NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V402000 (Power Train). The contact also stated that the cup holder was collapsing inward, and the text or coating on every control button in the vehicle was peeling off. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but no diagnostic trouble code was found. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failures. The failure mileage was approximately 31,000.

NHTSA ID

11748502

Incident

Aug 25, 2023

Mileage

31,000 mi

We purchased a used 2020 Ford Expedition Max Platinum, VIN [XXX] , from Deacon Jones dealership. The vehicle currently has 128,888 miles. At the time of purchase, we were assured the SUV was in “tip-top shape” because it had previously belonged to a manager’s friend and had supposedly been well maintained and serviced. However, within only two weeks of purchasing the vehicle, the transmission began slipping out of gear while accelerating, causing the vehicle to lose power and fail to move properly. This is an extremely dangerous safety issue, especially considering I travel frequently to doctors’ appointments and regularly transport my seven grandchildren in this SUV. In addition to the transmission failure, the main electrical system controlling the dashboard frequently glitches and malfunctions, even after Ford performed a software update. These ongoing electrical problems create additional safety concerns and make the vehicle unreliable. We immediately contacted the dealership after the problems began. Their only offer was $750 toward a transmission replacement that will cost over $5,000. We simply do not have that kind of money, especially while continuing to make monthly payments of $850 on a vehicle that is unsafe to drive. We have also since discovered the vehicle had previously been involved in an accident that was never reported to us before the sale. What is most concerning is that this vehicle appears to have received an inspection sticker despite clearly not undergoing a proper inspection. A transmission that slips out of gear and significant electrical malfunctions should never have passed inspection. This places not only my family at risk, but also everyone else on the road. We have written several letters to Ford regarding the safety concerns surrounding this vehicle and the danger it poses to our family. Unfortunately, Ford responded stating they would not assist us in any way. It is extremely disappointing INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 55

NHTSA ID

11740002

Incident

Jun 1, 2024

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the instrument cluster displayed a black screen and independently blinked on and off, causing the safety features to become unavailable while operating the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall with a similar failure; however, the VIN was not associated with the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

NHTSA ID

11730385

Incident

Sep 17, 2025

Mileage

50,000 mi

The power liftgate system appears to be malfunctioning. The vehicle intermittently displays a warning that the liftgate is open when it is fully closed and secured. When this occurs, the liftgate will not open using the exterior handle, interior button, or key fob. Additionally, the false “liftgate open” alert triggers the vehicle’s alarm system to activate unexpectedly without any attempt to access the vehicle. The issue occurs randomly and without warning. This malfunction creates a safety risk because the liftgate cannot be opened when needed, which could prevent access to emergency supplies, child safety items, or the spare tire in an urgent situation. The false alert also causes the vehicle alarm to activate randomly, which can startle the driver and others nearby, potentially causing distraction while driving or in traffic areas. Additionally, the system incorrectly indicates that the liftgate is open, creating uncertainty about whether the vehicle is secure and safe to operate. A malfunctioning liftgate could present a hazard if the vehicle incorrectly detects an open door while in motion. Yes, the issue has been reproducible at Bluebonnet Ford in New Braunfels, TX. No, alerts prior to it happening, when I does alert all lights in the vehicle turn on, as well as notifications on the Ford Mobile app

NHTSA ID

11728842

Incident

Dec 1, 2025

I’m reporting a parts‑availability problem with Ford recall 22S36/22S48 on my 2020 Expedition. My VIN shows the recall in FordPass and my dealer confirmed it, but they cannot get the replacement battery junction box. I was advised to contact larger dealers because parts are not being supplied. This is a fire‑risk recall, and the delay prevents the safety repair. Please document the shortage and ensure Ford provides adequate parts.

NHTSA ID

11724915

Incident

Mar 17, 2026

Just about every time we get in the vehicle the center screen won’t light up and requires a power and fast forward button to reset. Sometimes this needs to be done twice in one drive.

NHTSA ID

11675280

Incident

Jul 22, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that when the A/C was activated, there was condensation pooling on the passenger’s side fuse box, causing the transmission to not be able to shift out of park(P). The contact stated that he was able to start the vehicle. The contact stated that numerous warning lights were illuminated. Additionally, the contact was unable to turn off the headlights. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that condensation had damaged the fuse box and caused the body control module to fail. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 20-2170 Water Leaking on Right Front Floor After A/C Use (Electrical System). The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.

NHTSA ID

11657180

Incident

Apr 2, 2025

Mileage

63,000 mi

The rear camera started to work intermittently, when taken to the dealer it was not on the recall list, when I believe it should have been. Dealer could not identify which of (4) possible cameras where in the vehicle by the VIN, stating he had to disassemble the car to visually identify which camera it was. Why wasn't this VIN included in the recall when Ford can't even identify which camera was in the vehicle when manufactured. Looking forward to your response.

NHTSA ID

11637927

Incident

Jan 22, 2025

Frequently when driving my 2020 Ford Expedition max the transmission slips out of gear causing it to go into neutral and put me in a position when i am unable to accelerate my vehicle. This happens mostly on the freeway when we are driving 65 MPH and greatly endangers the safety of my family. Reading several on-line forums indicates this is a common problem and should be fixed via a recall. Also, my dashboard viewing screen often turns black for no reason when using or simply does not turn on.

NHTSA ID

11630489

Incident

Dec 12, 2024

rear back up camera does not have guide lines. Camera works, but does not have the guide lines that move when you back up. I bought the vehicle used. I checked other 2020 expeditions and they have the guide lines on the display.

NHTSA ID

11624577

Incident

Jan 1, 2024

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the electrical system in the vehicle unexpectedly shutdown. The vehicle was driven to several dealers where it was diagnosed and determined that the gate module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 49,000.

NHTSA ID

11621931

Incident

Feb 10, 2023

Mileage

49,000 mi

I was driving 70mph when suddenly a red alert on the dashboard said coolant alert 402 degrees the car was not heating up at all before that. I pulled to the side of the road right away. Smoke started coming out trunk ran and in less than 2 minutes the car was on fire.

NHTSA ID

11619598

Incident

Oct 13, 2024

I read that there is a recall on 2021/2022 Fords with Eco Boost but not the 2020. I have had my vehicle into the dealership multiple times due to misfires and loss of all power which has almost caused multiple accidents on the interstate. I accelerate to get into the left lane and lose all power and do not get power back until my vehicle decelerates down to around 40 mph/or a lower gear, causing semi’s and other vehicles to have to slam on their brakes so that they do no run into the back of me. It idles very roughly and overall has been the worst vehicle mechanically that I have ever owned. The dealerships always say they cannot find anything wrong with it or cannot reproduce it but it happens on a daily basis and keeps getting worse. I have had the transmission updated, changed the cool packs, and changed the plugs which has not helped at all. I want to know why the 2020 Expedition is not included in this recall? This is the most expensive vehicle I have ever purchased and I would expect it to run smoothly with no issues and I am very disappointed. Not only disappointed in the vehicle, but in Ford itself for not acknowledging this issue. I have read many complaints from other customers experiencing the same issues and unable to find a fix for it. I would like some answers and for Ford to make things right with my Expedition. I am not able to trade it in or sell it due to having all the issues that it has and frankly I’m not sure I trust Ford anymore or if I’ll ever buy a Ford product again and we have been faithful Ford owners for years. Thank you for your time and I’ll be looking forward to hearing back from you soon regarding this issue. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11618650

Incident

Oct 1, 2022

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Expedition. The contact stated the windshield wipers were intermittently inoperable. Additionally, the contact stated that while attempting to drive from a complete stop at night, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to turn off and was drivable after 15 minutes. The vehicle was driven to a parking spot. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the windshield washer line located on the front passenger's side and on the rear windshield had exploded due to washer fluid accumulation. The dealer informed the contact that the failure caused the windshield washer fluid and freon to leak into the dashboard module and onto the front passenger's side floorboard. The dealer repaired the R and R BCM, reprogrammed the RCM communication circuit and the BCM, and installed the Alarm-KE and the R and R auxiliary evaporator cord. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 68,305.

NHTSA ID

11613123

Incident

Feb 26, 2024

Mileage

68,305 mi

The vehicle has had power issues since day 1. Lost power driving 70 on freeway. When we go to start everything flickers and flashes. Take to the dealer and it’s not a problem until it breaks. 4/5 years of this issue!

NHTSA ID

11583462

Incident

Sep 1, 2020

The transmission is skipping or jerking randomly. It has happened several times while driving on the expressway and when driving on the regular roads. It is concerning that this is happening more often which puts my and my family's lives at risk when we are driving at high speed on expressway and vehicle will jerk and gears get stuck which can cause me to get hit by another vehicle or semi truck. There is no warning that this is going to happen. I bought the truck in Sept 2021. It happened to me in May of 2022 and has been happening more often now. I took truck to dealership on 3/13/24 and service adviser just told me that they know this is common in the expeditions but that the transmission module needed to be reset. I asked if this covered under warranty since it is known issue and should not be happening to brand new vehicles. I also spoke to a friend who has a similar expedition and this has happened to them where their vehicle has left them stranded for transmission jerking all of a sudden. Ford needs to fix this issue. I should not have to pay for Ford to recaliberate the module to get the transmission to work properly. I also had them check my radio screen because it keeps going to a black screen and/or gets stuck on the rear camera not having access to anything on the screen. I was also told by advisor that they had to put a new module in it because again this is a known issue on the computer screen as well.

NHTSA ID

11577676

Incident

May 31, 2022

Timeline of Recent Issues and Service Dates: Date Repair Order Date Invoiced and Picked Up Mileage Issues [XXX] [XXX] 21,735 Oil Change; Transmission; Sunroof; Gas Gauge; Door Seal; Power Running Boards; Park Assist [XXX] [XXX] 30,081 Safety Recall; Power Running Boards; Transmission [XXX] [XXX] 33,909 Wipers, Power Running Boards; Transmission [XXX] [XXX] 35,695 Internal Vent and Control Module; Rear Wiper Blade [XXX] [XXX] 43,912 Transmission [XXX] [XXX] 49,144 Oil Change; Check Up Transmission; Rear Brakes [XXX] Present 49,371 Emergency Break Down Mountains- Powertrain and Electrical Issues [XXX] Routine maintenance service at Mark Ficken Ford, including an oil change, tire rotation, and rear brake work. Video documentation confirming the vehicle's good working order post-service. [XXX]: Vehicle experiences severe issues while on a family trip, including shaking, flashing check engine light, and loss of power in the gas. Attempted restart at BP Station after a 20-minute break; vehicle runs smoothly. Decided to drive to the nearest Ford Dealer for further inspection. Recurrence of issues, leading to the vehicle shaking, stalling, and eventually dying [XXX]. [XXX] Vehicle towed to Asheville Ford for repairs. Contradictory issues identified by Asheville Ford, with additional services recommended. Repairs completed on [XXX]. [XXX]: Vehicle retrieved from Asheville Ford, exhibiting new issues such as delayed engine start, increased engine noise, rough running, and sporadic electronic malfunctions. Video evidence documenting the observed issues. Due to the ongoing and unresolved nature of the issues, the vehicle was dropped off at the Mark Ficken Ford dealership after hours on the [XXX], and keys were securely deposited in the night box, and I Ubered home. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11575418

Incident

Dec 28, 2023

Vehicle rolled back down the driveway by itself. I have videos shows me parking the vehicle and locking it. Second video shows the Ford rolling back [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11571621

Incident

Feb 13, 2024

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? NOT SURE. THERE IS ISSUES WITH THE AUTO STOP/START WHILE VEHICLE IS STOPPED. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? THE ISSUE HAS CAUSED THE VEHILE ENGINE TO SHUT OFF COMPLETELY. THIS HAS OCCURED WHILE STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN, BUT ALSO WHILE TAKING OFF FROM A STOP LIGHT THAT HAD TURNED GREEN. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? YES Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? NO Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? AUTO STOP/START LIGHT, BATTERY LIGHT, ENGINE LIGHT ALL ILLUMINATE WHEN THIS OCCURS

NHTSA ID

11570849

Incident

Jan 1, 2024

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? APIM issues causing GPS, Bluetooth, radio, settings and camera to mess up. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Getting lost on the road without GPS. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle has been to a Ford dealership. They were able to recreate the issue. They state the APIM is bad. We had to have the APIM reset with less than 9k miles on the vehicle. They are now saying resetting the APIM is not resolving the issue. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No, this started about 2 months ago. We were just able to get the vehicle looked at this week.

NHTSA ID

11570842

Incident

Dec 28, 2023

There are 3 issues going on with my SUV. Each item has been identified or verified at my local dealership. My main issue is that the car occasionally will not go into the correct gear. This mostly happens when I haven't driven the car in a couple of days, and it's cold out. It also shifts hard for no reason. I was informed that there is some sort of transmission issue with my type suv. I never received a recall notice or anything. Second, my alarm goes off in the middle of the night randomly. The dealership said this was due to a faulty latch on the back of the car. They also said this was a newer issue that other customers have had. Last, my pre-collision assist will activate when there is nothing around to trigger it. This has happened one time so far.

NHTSA ID

11570676

Incident

Nov 15, 2023

Transmission shifts from 3rd to 5th gear very hard and downshifts from 10th to 8th very hard also.

NHTSA ID

11569802

Incident

Feb 4, 2024

My check charging system light came on at a drive thru and the truck put itself in park and shut off. I tried to start it back up and wouldn’t start but the starter keep trying which lead to an electrical fire and the only way to get it to stop was to disconnect the battery. I was not even able to get the truck in neutral to push it out of the way. Even following the steps that it says by pressing both the brake and gas pedal and moving the knob. It would just go back in park. I had to have a tow truck to come remove my truck out of the drive thru is was blocking. My concern is that if this happened in a garage while using the remote start, it could’ve completely caught fire had not, I’ve been paying attention.

NHTSA ID

11564820

Incident

Jan 7, 2024

APIM failure which results in loss of screen and information that has safety related items. Ford should provide a recall on all failed units. Customer forums have many complaints about this item.

NHTSA ID

11555518

Incident

Jan 30, 2023