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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  Not sure what to think - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By carguy89 - September 26 - 11:00 pm

  Bought it brand new in 03. After about a year or two the autolock on the doors quit working, rear wiper was sticking, and plastic molding on doors was badly sunfaded. Had to replace brakes twice with less than 100,000 miles. Every once in a while when you start it a clould of smoke puffs out of the exhaust. When you start the car with the AC set to On you hear a loud "klunk". Just replaced front wheel bearing and still need to replace back one mechanic said. For not even having 100,000 miles on it weve done quite a bit to it. Looks sharp. Hoping to squeeze another 100,000 out of it. Dont know about getting another one. Engine is loosing its "get up".

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  Good work truck - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By Casey - September 15 - 5:37 am

  Purchased in 2004 with 37k now has 81k and is still running strong. I use it for work and decided to go with the Expedition over a pick up to accomodate the family. With the 3rd row seat out and the back bench seats folded down, I have plenty of room for work gear. The kids perfer the Expedition over the minivan for long trips. The engine eats oil.. no leaks or emission problems, just need to check the dip stick a little more often than other trucks Ive had. Vehicle has a nice ride but is still a truck. Self leveling system motor is loud and seems to adjust randomly, even when the truck is off.

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  Awesome car - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By pmd - August 22 - 12:09 pm

  I have had this car for 8 years and its gone about 243,000. I have only had two minor repairs, an alternatior and a thermostat, less than $500. Anything else was normal, like tires, brake pads and oil changes. I thought I should sell it 2 years ago but kept it and am so glad I did. It just keeps on going. My locks dont respond properly and the drinkholder broke but the car moves with no problem and has not let me down.

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  Worst vehicle we have had -reliability - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Renee Hart - July 30 - 12:23 pm

  My husband and I shopped all the SUVs and chose the Ford Expedition as it best fit our family needs. We absoblutely love the SUV with the exception of the reliability. On the third year, this year, we have replaced an altinator and it is currently in the shop for a new transmission. However, the problems began immediately with one thing or another. Unfortunately, the small things happened when it was under warranty. We are very, very disappointed in the reliability of this vehicle. We would not purchase another one based on this.

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  98_Exp - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By Great 98 EB - July 26 - 3:51 pm

  I purchased this in 2005 with 134,000 miles on it. I now have 299,200 miles on it now. The usual things replaced on a 5.4 like COPs starter, alternator and shift activator. Body and interior in top condition. It hasnt spit any plugs out as Ive heard on other cases. Its a 98 EB Pacific Green with tan interior. I put a satellite radio in it, custom grill and grill in the bumper. custom 17 inch wheels. I believe this is one vehicle that was built on a good day. No one believes it has that many miles on it. I own other vehicles, but this is one I drive the most.

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  Love my truck! - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Sam - July 7 - 6:56 pm

  We bought this truck new off the lot. (Gas was much cheaper 8 years ago!) We opted not to buy the extended warranty and have not had any major problems within the first 6 years of its life. However, with that being said, within the past 2 years, we have had to replace the sway bar, new brakes (twice), new front end calibers, new shocks, new emergency brake (prior mechanic cut it!), and just now - a new alternator.

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  A family friendly vehicle - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By hansonfamily - June 29 - 9:34 pm

  We bought the vehicle for the size and we have a large family. We have been allover the East coast, never have had any problems. At the present time we 185000 miles on the truck, and would not hesitate to drive it anywhere.

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  My Expy - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Bruce - June 29 - 7:29 pm

  It has been a great truck except for the transmission. We are on #3. All under warranty but, the last was the extended warranty. Look elsewhere if you tow a trailer. The gas of course if now a problem.

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  Swiss Army Knife of SUVs - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By Paul - June 29 - 6:45 pm

  This vehicle hauls 8 people comfortably, effortlessly tows my 5,000 lb trailer, the rear rows fold flat for hauling plywood and has near minivan manners on the road with 4WD available for our Canadian winters.

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  Great Towing & Family Transport - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Steve - June 29 - 8:57 am

  We purchased our first 4x4 as a pre-owned certified vehicle and were originally sold on the Ford as compared to the Suburban based on the interior layout and fold-flat seating. The vehicle was needed to tow some heavy loads off-road and it has performed superbly in this role. The only complaint is a somewhat noisy (whiny)transmission low gear transfer case and the unpainted plastic door protection outer trim that is prone to oxidize. We have had no major mechanical problems and only a window drive motor to repair.