Some 2018-2022 Expedition vehicles may exhibit a condition of intermittent headlamp operation while the vehicle is OFF and have diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B1533 stored in the body control module (BCM). This may be due to the internal logic within the headlamp switch. To correct this condition, replace the headlamp switch (service base part number: 11654). Refer to Workshop Manual, Section 417-01.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2019 Ford Expedition lighting problems
moderate Owners of the 2019 Ford Expedition have filed 9 NHTSA complaints about the lighting at roughly $250 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of August 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See lighting across all vehicles →
| Model year | lighting complaints |
|---|---|
| 2017 Expedition | 3 |
| 2018 Expedition | 22 |
| 2019 Expedition (this page) | 9 |
| 2020 Expedition | 4 |
| 2022 Expedition | 3 |
Among the 5 model years of Ford Expedition in our records for lighting problems, this one ranks #2 by owner-complaint volume.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering lighting on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Some 2018-2022 Expedition vehicles may exhibit a condition of intermittent headlamp operation while the vehicle is OFF and have diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B1533 stored in the body control module (BCM). This may be due to the internal logic within the headlamp switch. Switch and/or module replacement will not resolve this condition. Headlamp operation is not affected while the vehicle is ON. A new headlamp switch is currently under development to correct this condition. Let the customer know they can continue to drive the vehicle and schedule a follow-up appointment in May 2023, when parts are expected to become available. Follow up with the customer to confirm the appointment once OASIS i
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 20182021 Expedition/Navigator vehicles may exhibit inoperative reverse lamps with DTC B1277 stored in the body control module (BCM). The vehicle may also exhibit the auto dimming rear view mirror becoming dark as soon as the key is turned on or is inoperative. This may be due to incorrect wiring of an aftermarket 5 pin jumper connector from a non-Ford windshield supplier that is causing a short to ground. To correct this condition, inspect if the windshield was recently replaced and verify the circuits in the 5 pin jumper connector located between connector C9440 and C9224 are routed in the correct pin location and adjust as necessary. Refer to the Wiring Diagram, Cell 124-10.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
Daytime running light LEDs are failing, has turned purple and is very dim on the passenger side.
The passenger side headlight DRL is fading and does not appear to be as bright and pronounced as the driver side DRL. This vehicle has the LED headlights and fog lights.
Common questions
How serious is the lighting problem on the 2019 Ford Expedition?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 9 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $250 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the lighting typically fail?
Based on the 9 complaints filed, lighting issues most often appear around 70,354 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $250 for lighting repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to lighting?
No active recalls currently cover lighting issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.