Ford, Chrysler, Kia Recall Over 800,000 Vehicles for Console, Battery, and Seat Belt Issues

Ford is recalling nearly 550,000 vehicles in two separate actions filed with U.S. safety regulators. Certain 2018-2024 Expedition models face a recall because chrome plating on the centre console may bubble and peel, creating sharp edges that could injure occupants.

Dealers will inspect and replace affected consoles at no cost to owners. A second Ford recall covers 255,000 Focus models built from 2012 to 2018 after earlier repairs under recall 18V735 may not have resolved a canister purge valve issue.

Chrysler is recalling 17,277 Pacifica plug-in hybrid vehicles from model years 2020-2022 after the high-voltage battery pack could cause a fire even when the vehicle is parked and turned off. Owners have been told not to charge the vehicles and to park them away from structures until software updates and possible battery replacements are completed.

Kia is recalling more than 6,000 Telluride and Telluride hybrid models from the 2027 production year because the driver seat belt emergency locking retractor may lock and prevent the belt from extending. The company stated that this could leave an occupant unrestrained in a crash.

Repairs for all three manufacturers will be performed free of charge once parts and software updates are available.