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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  Never again - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By roadsgt97 - March 14 - 5:05 pm

  Putting a new engine in mine, cheaper then buying a new truck. I had lots of problems with the truck. Bought it new. I like the way it drives and handles but the repairs will make you go bankrupt. When the warrenty runs out get rid of it quick. WILL not buy another ford.

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  Ford needs to improve. Last Ford for us. - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Our last Ford - October 9 - 2:00 am

  After replacing the electric window controls twice, electric seat component,back-up sensor and side mirror control, enough. The 4.6 engine could not tow a 3800 lb. travel trailer decent on any incline. This was our fourth Ford vehicle and our last.

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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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  254,000+ Miles and its still going! - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By Not a Ford Guy - June 10 - 2:19 pm

  We bought our 1997 Expedition XLT 4x4 in 2000 with about 100K miles already on it. I was leery because the first year Exped had already developed a notorious reliability reputation, but the price was so good I couldnt resist. At the time it was a good looking truck (and still isnt bad, after all these years) and gas was "cheap." Well, weve broken 250K miles and have only sunk about $2500 in 10 years into actual repairs, not including "consumables" of course. The small 4.6 L V8, which underpowered for such a large vehicle, still holds its own and still gets 14+ MPG in mixed driving -- and EVERYTHING still works (all electrical, power, transmission, 4WD, etc)! Color me impressed!

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  Triton engine problems - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By Jim - June 9 - 3:35 pm

  This is our 3rd Expedition and the first we have had problems with despite essentially the same engine. The vehicle has had an intermittent misfire for at least 2 years. Has not shown up on computer until this week when engine light finally came on. Coil on plug on cylinder #4 was faulty. After a check of the internet, I find this is a common problem which was confirmed by my dealers service department. Ford refuses to acknowledge this is a problem with this engine. Big decision now is whether to sell it or keep it and risk a multi-thousand dollar repair bill sometime in the future. No more Expeditions for us which is a shame because we like it a lot more than GM or other products.

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  Continue to be disappointed - 2010 Ford Expedition
  By Lynn Mc - April 27 - 9:07 pm

  Bought new Nov 2009 and immediately back in shop for electronics. Systems started shutting down. Took two weeks to fix. January 2010 heated seats went out. April sunroof would not open. What next... very disappointed with this purchase. Question reliability.

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  I really wanted to like this Truck. - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Advancing - April 21 - 3:25 am

  On my third rear end covered by warranty. A ticking in the drivers side door that nobody can find, plastic cladding on doors are fading badly (garage kept), tire pressure monitors useless, paid for leather got something that isnt leather (perhaps it comes from plastic cows), tailgate has blisters in the paint, steering wheel cover falling off. All these issues are created by accountant driven engineering. On the up side I pull a 6500 lb boat and it does it quite well although I doubt it could pull the 8500 lbs its rated for. Handles well for a large truck. Excellent brakes. Engine performance from the 5.4 L is great. Climate control is good. Good winter vehicle. Inspires in all weather

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  Backup sensor quit working - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Mary - April 15 - 1:34 pm

  Ford dealer cannot figure out why the backup sensor quit working. Started after we hooked up our travel trailer. No one can fix this. Had a few close calls and want it fixed!

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  Mustve got the only lemon - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By mooch316 - March 17 - 7:36 pm

  In four months on Limited fully equipped model, have had everything from the automatic air suspension to now the full transmission. Love the looks, comfort, safety, but wished it was in my driveway as much as its at the dealership for major repairs. I wish I wouldve never bought this lemon, its giving me an ulcer.

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  Never again! - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Don S - March 7 - 2:54 pm

  Had problems with the steering and rust on the rear door while under warranty. Had problems with the differential seals 39,000. Brake seals went at 40,000 Caliper froze and destroyed front rotor at 51,000 Same caliper froze at 102,000 replaced rotor, break line, seals. Front bearing replaced at same time 2 months later at 104,000 rear wheel bearing went. Never use this for off road and very minimal light towing. All highway miles and very costly to own. Beware!