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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  Cant go wrong... Great vehicle - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By Hank Robertson - March 25 - 2:00 am

  After being somewhat confused as to which SUV to purchase I made the choice of this Expedition... I could not be happier... It is so comfortable and turns on a dime... I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys driving a bigger vehicle and yet wants responsive handling... Enjoy!

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  Great improvments - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By SUVGuy - March 25 - 2:00 am

  I got my Expedition in December and the only problem is the passenger side view mirror tends to adjust itself when I unlock the doors from the keyless entry system. It seems to click and get stuck. Ill get it fixed the first time I go in for an oil change, but otherwise, no complaints--good car and you can get a pretty sweet deal if you work it right!

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  OMG ITs a Ford - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By JCS - March 24 - 2:00 am

  It has 130,000 miles on it and has been reasonable for repairs. Some quirkiness in the electronics such as lights and chimes that wont deactivate when they should. The tranny is groaning a bit even after service. 4wd system is excellent and the ride is comfortable. Just dont try an Indy car moves on the roadway or you will roll the beast. The brakes are expensive to replace. Seems that everytime it needs a brake job the rotors are toast. I am a very easy driver on the vehicle. I paid 28,000 for it in 98, used with 12,000 miles. They dont hold their value that well because according to Edmonds its only worth about 8,000 for trade.

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  Think twice b4 buying - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By Just1person - March 23 - 2:00 am

  This is my first truck and I have to say, if this is your first time driving, this is a great suv to learn on. The outside looks good but they need to make the inside a little less complex. Had some transmission problems that would cost more than I want to spend but it is a pretty good and comfortable truck.

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  Head gasket - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By 99EB - March 23 - 2:00 am

  This truck was purchased used with 56K, now has 62K and everything is starting to go wrong with it! Head gasket is now leaking oil ($1500 repair). Heated seats have been replaced already ($370 each), rear door molding is defective, wiper/turn signal switch defective-wipers go on whenever they want to, Gas mileage is VERY POOR for this vehicle! We are now getting rid of this and going with a Japanese SUV, hope you do to! Dont waste your time on this car if you dont like going back to the dealer every 3 months.

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  Never had a big truck - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By marmalade1121 - March 19 - 10:00 am

  We just purchased this after someone rear ended our 99 Jeep Cherokee Classic on the highway at 55 mph. We felt bigger = better safetywise (at least it FEELS that way). It was between the 2003 Explorer XLT and this and for the price the Expedition won hands down. I find the Expedition to be big, but not cumbersome. The towing capacity cinched the deal for us. The looks of the FX4 package swayed my husband. The fuel economy has me a little scared but after being in an unfortunate accident, money is not the biggest concern. Anyway, my Cherokee mpg was never THAT great to begin with...

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  Definately Ford Tough - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By richard o - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I drive my Expedition like a truck. I had a liner constructed to fit the back end with the seats down & I haul everything! It tows our 2 horse trailer without a problem. I am a avid upland bird hunter & I find it to be the perfect vehicle in the field. Dogs & passengers travel in total comfort. Ford definately did things right with this model, the new ones are just big cars

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  Im happy - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By Drew22 - March 18 - 2:00 am

  I didnt think I would be getting this vehicle when I started shopping. When I got into it I was impressed. It does lack some power. The comfort on the highway makes up for it.

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  lemon - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By RIckJ - March 14 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has been back to dealer 17 times for recalls or problems. The same problem came up after warranty and FORD would not stand behind. Last problem exhaust mainfold bolts rusted off with major repair exspense. Ford will not stand behind product. This will be my last Ford product and the last for my company which purchases many vehicles. I approached thess problems as a individual client not thru the company. Because of the treatment Ford has lost a lot of business.

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  Ford lover - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By DAF - March 12 - 2:00 am

  Traded in our Grand Cherokee for our Eddie Bauer. Love how much room this truck has even with the 3rd seat in it. Taking the 3rd seat out, is like a pickup truck. Thoe it is kinda heavy and bulky. Very comfortable seats and ride. Ours has air suspension, very nice on highways. Like a Lincoln. Great sound system. Rear air and radio controls are nice for kids. Pulls our 23ft boat very good to the river. Cant wait to purchase a new eddie bauer expedition. This is my 4th ford. No complaints.