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Ford Expedition
SUV · Gas · 48 versions · owner report
Ranked #5 of 11 full-size SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide.
6 problems reported (1 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequent10-speed automatic transmission failures
Very frequent reports of harsh shifting, jerking, clunking, banging, complete loss of acceleration, and total transmission failure requiring replacement, sometimes multiple times under 100,000 miles.
- RecurrentCam phaser failure
Requires timing cover gasket replacement and phaser replacement; causes engine rattle on startup and performance loss.
- RecurrentOther EcoBoost engine issues
Includes reports of excessive oil consumption (adding a quart monthly), coolant hose failures, and in one severe case, white smoke from exhaust with gasoline smell and loss of power.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentBuild quality / trim issues
Interior and exterior trim pieces coming loose or not being flush; cited as a common problem.
- RecurrentInfotainment system problems
Laggy response, software glitches, issues with Apple CarPlay connectivity and audio.
- IsolatedPoor real-world fuel economy
Reports of 13-16 MPG in mixed driving, significantly lower than EPA estimates for newer models.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" model year or trim. Data suggests avoiding specific problematic years is more critical than seeking a particular trim. The long-wheelbase "Max" variant is noted for superior interior space and car-seat configuration. The Platinum trim is mentioned but without specific praise over other trims.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, Chevrolet Tahoe, Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus GX.
Is the Expedition right for you?
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Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. Long-term owners of older models, particularly those with the 5.4L Triton V8 (e.g., 2013 model), report very high reliability with only routine maintenance required, describing them as "rock solid" and "so reliable." However, sentiment shifts significantly for newer generations equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and the Ford/GM co-developed 10-speed automatic transmission. These models are frequently criticized for severe and recurrent transmission failures ("jerk, clunk, bang"), cam phaser issues requiring engine work, and other premature mechanical failures. The powertrain is a major point of contention: while the EcoBoost engine is praised for its strong acceleration and power, its pairing with the problematic 10-speed transmission and associated engine issues overshadows this benefit. Owner satisfaction appears heavily dependent on avoiding these major failures, with those experiencing them expressing extreme frustration and brand abandonment.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a technologically modern, powerful, and feature-loaded full-size SUV, often compared favorably on interior space and car-seat friendliness versus the Chevrolet Tahoe. However, it is consistently criticized for inferior build quality, reliability, and long-term durability compared to domestic rivals from GM and especially Japanese competitors like Toyota and Lexus. The Expedition is noted for having a better value proposition when heavily discounted but is seen as a significant reliability trade-off compared to a Toyota Tundra or Land Cruiser. Compared to the Jeep Wagoneer, the Expedition's 3.5L EcoBoost is viewed as a known quantity (with known issues) versus the Wagoneer's unproven new engine. It is frequently mentioned as a recommended alternative during competitor vehicle recalls.
Recommended configurations
Extended wheelbase (Expedition Max) recommended for maximum interior and cargo space, especially for families. All-wheel drive/4x4 is standard for consideration. A strong, manufacturer-backed extended warranty (specifically Ford's Premium ESP) is very frequently and strongly recommended by owners due to widespread powertrain reliability concerns. Owners advise a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, with a specific focus on transmission operation and engine health.
General recommendations
Suitable for large families requiring maximum interior passenger and cargo space. Potentially suitable for buyers who prioritize available power and modern features and who secure a comprehensive extended warranty. NOT recommended for buyers prioritizing long-term reliability, low cost of ownership, or who are averse to potential major repairs. Strongly advised to test drive extensively, focusing on transmission behavior at all speeds, and to check for any stored diagnostic trouble codes. Aggressively negotiate price to account for higher projected maintenance costs. Verify all open recalls have been addressed before purchase. For older models (pre-2015), the 5.4L V8 is noted as a reliable choice.
Remarks
The reliability crisis centers on the 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission and the 3.5L EcoBoost engine, particularly cam phasers. These issues are reported across the Ford lineup (F-150, Explorer) and are not unique to the Expedition. There is an owner perception that Ford corporate and dealerships are difficult to work with on warranty claims, with reports of claims being denied just outside of mileage limits. The 2025 model year introduces a new encrypted "TRON" electrical architecture, which may limit aftermarket tuning and diagnostics. Analysis based on feedback covering models from 1997 to 2025, with the most critical feedback focused on 2018-2024 models.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Expedition V2024–2026135 complaints · 15 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): unknown or other (27) · electrical system (26) · forward collision avoidance (24)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2024-2026 Expedition is mixed and heavily split between practical praise and serious quality and safety concerns.
10 problems reported (1 very frequent, 1 recurrent, 8 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentVibration and shimmy at highway speed on new 2025 models
Sometimes persisting after tire balancing, tire replacement, and shock absorber replacement.
- RecurrentPoor small-overlap crash test rating on the 2024 model
With owners reporting the driver compartment crumbled and no updated rating for 2025-2026.
- IsolatedInterior build quality described as falling apart or atrocious on a rented 2024 Limited
+ 7 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedInfotainment and dash display freeze requiring a reboot by holding the power button, reported on a 2025 Expedition Max
- IsolatedAdaptive cruise control unavailable even after cleaning sensors
With a dealer recalibration and a new sensor ordered, and a separate report of the vehicle thinking a trailer is connected.
- IsolatedSeat motor issue where a seat moved unexpectedly with a child in it
- IsolatedIPMA fault codes pointing to a wiring or connector issue behind the windshield trim
- IsolatedWindshield replacement difficulty due to no OEM windshields in national inventory for the 2025 Expedition
- IsolatedThird-row seat function not working
With owners resorting to pulling a fuse or disconnecting switches to disable.
- IsolatedMissing buttons on an Active trim that owners expected to be standard
Later attributed to trim and package differences.
Is a 2024–2026 Expedition right for you?
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Expedition IV (U553)2017–20243,493 complaints · 86 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): power train (1309) · engine (649) · unknown or other (377)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2017-2024 Expedition generally praise the 3.5L EcoBoost powertrain, the smooth ride, the spacious third row, and the upscale interior, with several calling this generation one of Ford's best.
8 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCam phaser rattle/failure
- Very frequent10R80 transmission problems, including CDF clutch cylinder and 4th gear failure
- RecurrentElectrical issues including key fob not detected
Battery drain, and vehicle shutting off while driving.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentSYNC/APIM infotainment glitches, reboots, and Bluetooth connection loss
- RecurrentParking aid sensor faults, often from unplugged or loose connectors after bumper work
- IsolatedWater leaks traced to body plugs or roof rather than floor plugs
- IsolatedWheel bearing and heater hose failures before 70k miles
- IsolatedPoor small overlap crash test performance with structural collapse
Is a 2017–2024 Expedition right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Expedition III EL (U3542)2014–20171,405 complaints · 10 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (314) · service brakes (249) · power train (247)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2014-2017 Expedition generally speak positively about it, praising its space, towing capability, comfort on road trips, and the 3.5L EcoBoost engine that replaced the old V8 starting in 2015.
13 problems reported (4 recurrent, 9 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentCam phaser wear or noise on the 3.5L EcoBoost
- RecurrentTransmission shudder, bogging in fourth gear, or harsh downshifts on the 6R80
- RecurrentTransmission fluid never serviced on high-mileage examples
+ 10 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentSync system failures including dropped Bluetooth
Missing menus, and unresponsive units requiring resets.
- IsolatedExhaust manifold issues on the 3.5L EcoBoost
- IsolatedTailgate rust and corrosion bubbling, with warranty coverage denied absent perforation
- IsolatedWheel bearing noise
- IsolatedCarbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection
- IsolatedMisfires and coil or spark plug wear on higher-mileage examples
- IsolatedIWE (integrated wheel end) failures
- IsolatedMyKey speed warning appearing unexpectedly on the display
- IsolatedGear indicator remaining on the instrument display
- IsolatedRubbing noise from the front end
Is a 2014–2017 Expedition right for you?
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Expedition III (U3242)2014–20171,405 complaints · 10 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (314) · service brakes (249) · power train (247)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2014-2017 Expedition generally speak positively about it, praising its cargo space, towing capability, third-row room, and the 3.5L EcoBoost engine that replaced the old V8 starting in 2015.
16 problems reported (6 recurrent, 10 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentTailgate rust and corrosion bubbles
- RecurrentCam phaser issues on the 3.5L EcoBoost
- RecurrentCarbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection
+ 13 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentSYNC infotainment bugs, including dropped phone connections and missing menus
- Recurrent6R80 transmission shuddering and rough 4th gear behavior
- RecurrentTransmission fluid temperature running around 210 F
- IsolatedExhaust manifold issues
- IsolatedWater pump concerns on the 3.5L EcoBoost
- IsolatedThrottle body failure
- IsolatedWheel bearing noise
- IsolatedPaint chipping due to thin paint
- IsolatedMyKey speed warning appearing unexpectedly
- IsolatedGear indicator display issue
- IsolatedTelescoping steering column not present on some trims despite owner's manual
- IsolatedIgnition coil and spark plug wear requiring tune-up
- IsolatedIWE (integrated wheel end) replacement
Is a 2014–2017 Expedition right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Expedition III EL (U354)2006–20141,157 complaints · 16 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): power train (249) · engine (159) · electrical system (134)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2006-2014 Expedition is mixed and heavily dependent on the 5.4L 3-valve V8, which dominates the discussion.
17 problems reported (3 very frequent, 7 recurrent, 7 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCam phaser rattle and failure
- Very frequentTiming chain, tensioner, and guide wear
- Very frequentSpark plug issues, including two-piece plugs breaking or ejecting on the 5.4 3V
+ 14 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentPoor fuel economy
- RecurrentRear liftgate paint peeling
- RecurrentRear suspension multi-link control arm and bushing wear causing uneven tire wear
- RecurrentExhaust manifold leaks
- RecurrentCoolant boiling and suspected head gasket failure
- RecurrentStarter staying engaged or hanging
- RecurrentSync/Bluetooth connectivity problems
- IsolatedRoller follower seizure
- Isolated6R80 transmission cooler lines snapping
- IsolatedShift lock solenoid noise
- IsolatedBrake fluid level warning from worn pads
- IsolatedFront upper control arm and ball joint wear
- IsolatedAlternator failure
- IsolatedOil leaks collecting on control arm bushings
Is a 2006–2014 Expedition right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Expedition III (U324)2006–20141,157 complaints · 16 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): power train (249) · engine (159) · electrical system (134)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2006-2014 U324 Expedition generally regard it as a comfortable, spacious, and capable full-size SUV that is reliable when properly maintained, but the 5.4L 3-valve Triton V8 dominates the conversation with recurring warnings about cam phasers, timing components, and spark plugs.
19 problems reported (1 very frequent, 9 recurrent, 9 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCam phaser rattle and wear
- RecurrentTiming chain, tensioner, and guide failures
- RecurrentSpark plug issues (two-piece design, ejection, breakage on removal)
+ 16 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentLeaking exhaust manifolds
- RecurrentRear liftgate paint peeling on aluminum surfaces
- RecurrentRear suspension multi-link control arm and bushing wear causing uneven tire wear
- RecurrentUpper and lower ball joint wear
- RecurrentStarter hanging or staying engaged, risking flywheel damage
- RecurrentCoolant boiling / suspected head gasket or faulty radiator cap
- RecurrentBluetooth/SYNC connectivity and USB media compatibility problems
- Isolated6R80 transmission cooler lines snapping
- IsolatedRoller follower seizure causing knock
- IsolatedShift lock solenoid noise in the center console
- IsolatedBrake fluid level warning from pad wear
- IsolatedOil leaks collecting on control arm bushings
- IsolatedCD player failure
- IsolatedAlternator failure leaving vehicle stranded
- IsolatedBlower motor failure
- IsolatedInterior water leaks from sunroof drains or rear hatch
Is a 2006–2014 Expedition right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Expedition II2003–20061,565 complaints · 21 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (261) · engine and engine cooling (254) · engine (173)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment on the 2003-2006 Expedition is mixed and heavily dependent on which engine and how well the truck was maintained.
11 problems reported (3 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 5 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCam phaser noise and failure
- Very frequentSpark plug problems (two-piece design, stripping or welding into heads)
- Very frequentPoor fuel economy
+ 8 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentTiming chain guide failure
- RecurrentTransmission failure, particularly under heavy towing use
- RecurrentThird-row access difficulty, especially with child seats in the second row
- IsolatedInterior water leaks from sunroof drain tubes or rear hatch
- IsolatedInstrument cluster bulb issues, including directional LED bulbs and dim gauge needles
- IsolatedNo-crank condition in hot weather related to relays or battery cable corrosion
- IsolatedFactory subwoofer not working with aftermarket radio due to incompatible wiring harness
- IsolatedAC compressor clutch not engaging when system is empty
Is a 2003–2006 Expedition right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2000. Years to avoid: 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2003, 2001, 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Ford Expedition years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 11 | 2 | steering |
| 2025 | 43 | 6 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2024 | 81 | 7 | unknown or other |
| 2023 | 65 | 8 | electrical system |
| 2022 | 121 | 12 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 464 | 12 | power train |
| 2020 | 449 | 18 | power train |
| 2019 | 1,002 | 11 | power train |
| 2018 | 682 | 14 | power train |
| 2017 | 629 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2016 | 397 | 3 | service brakes |
| 2015 | 307 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2014 | 72 | 0 | power train |
| 2013 | 92 | 0 | power train |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices181 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2026 · electrical system: integrated trailer brake controlcampaign 26V104000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 F-150, 2022-2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, Maverick, 2024-2026 Ranger, 2023-2026 F-600 SD, 2022-2027 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and 2026 E-Transit vehicles. When towing a trailer, the integrated trailer module (ITRM) may lose communication with the vehicle, possibly causing a loss of brake and turn signal lights, or a loss of brake function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2026 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 26V606000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2027 Expedition, 2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, and F-550 SD vehicles. The headlight assemblies may contain a contaminated LED chip, which can result in a loss of daytime running lights, parking lights, high beams or low beams. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2025 · engine and engine cooling:engine:oil/lubricationcampaign 25V198000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 F-150, Expedition, and 2024 Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. The engine may have a misaligned engine cup plug, which can result in a rapid oil leak.
2025 · air bags:frontalcampaign 25V439000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Navigator and Expedition vehicles. The passenger side air bag may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause the air bag to deploy with excessive force during a crash.
2025 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:electric:control module:softwarecampaign 25V488000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Lincoln Navigator, F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and Ranger vehicles. The Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) module may malfunction while driving or when the driver is utilizing an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) feature, resulting in a loss of power brake assist.
2025 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:electric:control modulecampaign 25V823000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Lincoln Navigator, F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and Ranger vehicles. The Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) module may malfunction while driving or when the driver is utilizing an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) feature, resulting in a loss of power brake assist.
2025 · electrical system: integrated trailer brake controlcampaign 26V104000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 F-150, 2022-2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, Maverick, 2024-2026 Ranger, 2023-2026 F-600 SD, 2022-2027 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and 2026 E-Transit vehicles. When towing a trailer, the integrated trailer module (ITRM) may lose communication with the vehicle, possibly causing a loss of brake and turn signal lights, or a loss of brake function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2025 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 26V606000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2027 Expedition, 2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, and F-550 SD vehicles. The headlight assemblies may contain a contaminated LED chip, which can result in a loss of daytime running lights, parking lights, high beams or low beams. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2024 · engine and engine cooling:engine:oil/lubricationcampaign 24V851000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 F-150, 2024 Expedition and 2024 Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with a 3.5L GTDI engine. The engines may have a misaligned engine cup plug, which can result in a rapid oil leak.
2024 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 24V852000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2024 · engine and engine cooling:engine:oil/lubricationcampaign 25V198000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 F-150, Expedition, and 2024 Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. The engine may have a misaligned engine cup plug, which can result in a rapid oil leak.
2024 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 25V314000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Navigator and Expedition vehicles. The front brake lines may contact the engine air cleaner outlet pipe and become damaged, possibly resulting in a brake fluid leak and reduced brake function.
2024 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V315000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2022-2025 Escape, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, 2021-2023 Mach-E, 2024 Ranger, Mustang, 2021-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, 2022-2024 Navigator, and 2023-2024 Corsair vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to delay, freeze, or not display when the vehicle is in reverse.
2024 · electrical system: integrated trailer brake controlcampaign 26V104000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 F-150, 2022-2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, Maverick, 2024-2026 Ranger, 2023-2026 F-600 SD, 2022-2027 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and 2026 E-Transit vehicles. When towing a trailer, the integrated trailer module (ITRM) may lose communication with the vehicle, possibly causing a loss of brake and turn signal lights, or a loss of brake function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2024 · structure:interior panels:center consolecampaign 26V368000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2024 Expedition vehicles. The chrome plating on the center console may bubble and peel, resulting in sharp edges.
166 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
3.5 V6 SelectShift
3.5L 6-cylinder · 440 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2024–2026