Sounds like you can't make it any worse. Sometimes that's comforting and freeing.

If you can remove the panel, then it would be safer to use paint stripper out in the open. Wipe off the old paint and use a brass brush to be sure to get the paint out of the fine grooves. More than one application may be needed. Don't brush or sand transverse to the fine grooves in the surface. If the result shows stains in the metal, use a Metal Prep type phosphoric acid solution (per directions) to perform a final cleaning. PPE will be needed.

beth-

1) Is this some kind of clear coat, or what?

2) Have you considered talking to Frigidaire Customer Service? If you did you might be better informed about what you are dealing with and what options there might be to address it, or what the downsides might be to trying to strip it.

Usually 300-series stainless sheet is used for appliances. Those type alloys will be fine without coating. The heat will do nothing to it and it’s corrosion resistant enough to most things you’d use in a kitchen. Coating might have been there to reduce finger prints etc for a flawless finish.

Joseph - My thoughts exactly.

Kudzu9 - I assume it's the anti-fingerprint coating they put on appliances. I just wasn't sure if the stainless is exactly the same as they use on regular stainless or if it's of lesser quality since they plan on coating it? Perhaps I'll call and see what they say.

Thanks to all.