Overview & Reviews

The Ford Expedition is a full-size sport-utility vehicle based on Ford's popular full-size pickup truck platform. With rear- or four-wheel drive and seating for as many as nine adults, the Expedition has long been on the short list of vehicle choices for full-size families as well as anyone who needs the combination of versatility and grunt provided by a large SUV.

Big, tall and heavy, the Ford Expedition is every inch a truck, its large body wrapped around a comfortable and spacious cabin. The latest generation of the Expedition doesn't feel as cumbersome to drive as its extravagant dimensions and hefty weight suggest, but you'll still be reminded of just how full-size the Expedition is at the gas pump. In many cases, a large crossover SUV would be a better new or used vehicle choice given the advantages in fuel economy, handling and comfort. And if you really need something big and tow-worthy, other traditional SUVs like the Chevy Suburban are also worth a look.

Current Ford Expedition
The current Ford Expedition is offered in two lengths -- standard and EL -- and three trim levels: XLT, Limited and King Ranch. The EL has a 12-inch longer wheelbase and nearly 15 inches of additional overall length. The biggest reasons to consider the EL are the massive cargo space behind the third-row seat (more than twice that of the standard Expedition) and the longer rear doors that ease entry into the third row.

All Expeditions are powered by a 5.4-liter V8 that produces 310 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. As with most full-size SUVs, the Expedition is offered with a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

The well-equipped XLT comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, air-conditioning, a power driver seat, power-adjustable pedals, a sliding and reclining 40/20/40-split second-row seat, Ford's voice-operated Sync system, Bluetooth and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, an iPod/USB interface and rear audio controls. Limited highlights include 20-inch polished wheels, a rearview camera, a power liftgate and a leather-lined, truly luxurious interior. The King Ranch adds special two-tone paint, unique wheels, upgraded leather upholstery and wood accents. Options include a load-leveling rear suspension, navigation, heated and cooled seats and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The Ford Expedition features fold-flat second-row seats as well as available power-folding third-row seatbacks that together create a wide, flat cargo floor. Families with infants will appreciate the sliding center position of the second-row seat, which can bring a child in a safety seat up to 11 inches closer to the front-seat passengers.

In reviews we've found Ford's full-size SUV pleasant to drive for a big SUV thanks to precise steering and a comfortable ride quality. In most situations, the 5.4-liter V8 provides decent performance. Take on a full load of passengers and cargo or hitch up a large trailer, however, and the engine's weakness becomes all too apparent. Shoppers who expect to regularly fill the cabin with passengers and/or tow heavy loads might want to consider the Ford's few rivals, which offer more available power.

Used Ford Expedition Models
The current, third-generation Ford Expedition is the product of a major refresh conducted for 2007. However, whereas previous-generation Expeditions could hold up to nine passengers, the current generation holds only eight, due to standard front bucket seats. Changes have been minimal; the most notable occurred for 2009 when the Expedition got Ford's Sync multimedia voice control system, and the following year, when trailer sway control was added.

The second-generation Ford Expedition was introduced for the 2003 model year. Compared to the current generation, the styling was different and a less stiff chassis resided underneath. Ride and handling were not as good, and the standard automatic transmission had only four gears. There were also fewer available features, including three-row side curtain airbags. However, compared to its predecessor, this Expedition was a vast improvement -- specifically in regards to driving dynamics, thanks to its independent rear suspension. It was also the first SUV to offer power fold-into-the-floor rear seats, a feature that its General Motors rivals wouldn't receive for more than a decade.

Engines for this second-generation model consisted of a 232-hp 4.6-liter V8 and a 260-hp 5.4-liter V8. For 2005, Ford dropped the smaller engine and increased the 5.4-liter V8's output to 300 hp. The model line eventually proliferated from four trim levels at its debut (including an off-road version called FX4) to six for 2006, including the opulent, western-themed King Ranch edition. Safety-minded shoppers should know that all years of this generation came with stability control, with tire-pressure monitors becoming available with the 2004 models.

In reviews, we thought this Expedition competed favorably with its contemporary competitors from General Motors, Nissan and Toyota. If there was one area of contention -- especially in pre-'05 models -- it was a lack of muscle. On the whole, though, this edition of Ford's big SUV provided solid handling for a vehicle of its size. It still felt like a big SUV, but the steering was decently weighted and body roll was well controlled around turns. The ride could be a tad harsh on rough roads, but overall, it was a comfortable cruiser.

Launched for the 1997 model year, the original Ford Expedition was met with heaps of praise. Its dimensions fell between those of the short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase versions of the GM sport-utilities at the time, enabling it to both accommodate a third-row seat and fit inside a normal garage, albeit tightly. With a front bench seat, it could carry up to nine passengers.

The first-generation Ford Expedition came in just two trim levels: XLT and the more luxurious, two-tone Eddie Bauer. Both featured interior architecture that was nearly identical to the F-Series pickup, which offered good ergonomics but was rendered in lamentable materials. Its 215-hp 4.6-liter and 230-hp 5.4-liter V8 engines also could not keep up with the stronger motors from its primary competitors, a deficiency that was addressed in 1999 with a horsepower bump for both engines, of 25 and 30, respectively.

User Reviews:

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  Follow up on Exped vs. Lambda Platform - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By mk10108 - September 19 - 2:00 am

  500 mile trips. Hauling kayaks, bikes, and stuff for the twins, the Eddie gets better with age. Pile on the payload and it still rides level. Being 66" its the only vehicle I can move the seats up & still fit. Mileage is amazing - getting 20 mpg (3.31 rear end)highway doing the speed limit. Overall Average 16-18 mpg. DVD keeps the twins entertained, while the NAV gets us where we go. No complaints, no regrets. Looking to purchase a travel trailer and the 9K pound capability expands our choices. If youre thinking cross over platform the Expedition is a better choice.

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  Owner beward - 2006 Ford Expedition
  By Golfmaniac - September 15 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my Ex used with about 47K miles on it. Within the first week, the car began to loose power and the engine light came on. Took it back, told nothing wrong. Happened again, the dealer sent it to the local Ford dealer who found three sensors were bad, two on the transmission. I am hopeful that the fix works. The Ex swallows anything we put in it, including our three kids and gear. Gas mileage is what it is.

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  Really Great Truck - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By Kevin - September 6 - 10:42 pm

  My wife and I purchased the fully loaded Limited in Jan 2008. We have almost 50k on the truck now and I have to say its one of my favorite cars Ive ever owned. For the most part there have been no problems until recently. If you know Ford - you know they have electrical issues. My GPS system broke, but I had the extended warranty so it cost me $100 deductible. Also had problems with the gears on the windows (they would move up/down really slow or not at all in extreme heat/cold. Overall though its been an amazing truck and when compared to the Tahoe it was an easy decision. Especially with the auto fold flat seats in the 3rd row. I would highly recommend this truck.

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  My Expedition - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By innersouls - September 1 - 8:29 am

  My Expedition gets me 20 mpg on the freeway and still around 15 - 16 mpg in town. This has been the best vehicle I have ever owned

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  Awesome - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Rose - August 31 - 8:25 pm

  Bought this car with 26k. Love to drive it. Drives like a compact car, so much more comfortable. MPG not bad considering its size. Now have 96k, has run great only problem was replacing the transfer case. Now it runs great again. Will buy another one once this one quits. Its been a very sound car all around.

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  Great Vehicle - 2010 Ford Expedition
  By bigmo - August 28 - 8:36 am

  Drove Landcruisers and LX470s for 8 years, last cruiser couldnt keep tires in balance. Drove the EL, and it is better than the toyotas and the suburbans I have had in the past. Drinks gas, but thats expected on this type of vehicle, comfortable, great ride.

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  Major Issues - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Barb - August 27 - 11:10 pm

  I bought my truck new, with in the first month the power seat driver side stop working, the window arm bar driver side broke and cracked the glass, the tires was rubbing against the fenders, the coils on the cylinders all went bad back to back, i was left stranded a couple of times,the roof where the channels are at have major corrosion spots and when i put the transmission in drive i hear a loud "bang",I did tell the service manager about this everyone else heard it except him. So after all the kinks and fights was said and done and many years later i still have the love of my life my 2003 expedition with 52000 miles! and i am know a certified mechanic!

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  New Engine? - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Pete - August 23 - 4:56 pm

  For the first 50,000 miles, this truck ran great! Very roomy and comfortable, easy to drive and plenty of power. However, at around 60,000 miles and just 5 years after I drove it off the lot, it suddenly ran terribly and the check engine light came on. The dealer says I need the engine replaced. The warranty has expired and the dealer wanted $9000 to replace the engine! After a phone call to Ford the price came down to $5000. So far, Ive spent about $800 fixing things that might be the problem but unfortunately Im starting to think the dealer is right. I wouldnt think a vehicle with less than 60,000 would need a new motor. Very disappointed!

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  11 Years and Still a Good Vehicle - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Vin Tanner - August 17 - 9:43 am

  Bought new. All issues are normal wear and tear: control arms replaced @ 90,000 miles. 2 coils replaced in 10 years. Outside of that: Nothing! Change the oil regularly and drive responsibly and you get a good vehicle. Safety: superb. Mileage decent for big heavy SUV: 19 Hwy Controls simple in old vehicle. Reliability: 5 star. Safety: 5 star Comfort: 4 star. I see these all around town, Ford did well with this SUV. Would buy again, would recommend. 4.6 L/ 4 speed. Thanks

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  Good Truck - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By kenmandoo - August 15 - 7:53 pm

  Traded in 1999 Expy for the 2003 Expy back about 5 years ago with 50k miles. 5 years later, and about 100k miles we are looking at going to the newer 07+ Expys. NO PROBLEMS in 100k miles. I just replaced all 8 plugs, all the idler pulleys (2 were bad), belt, fuel filter (was pretty bad and just started leaking). Overall, great reliable truck. Leather held up exceptionally well.