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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  2004 Ford Expedition XLT Sport 5.4L 4x4 review - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By rick_casorio - March 1 - 2:14 pm

  I bought this Expedition after saying I was done with Ford after 2 bad experiences with Ford vehicles in the past. I turned in my lease lemon 05 F150 in 06 and saw this Expedition on the lot and something told me to give Ford 1 more try. Im glad I did. I bought it with 37k and 4 yrs later and with 76,XXX + miles it has been a great vehicle. Only issues Ive had was a rear end whine and a sticky brake caliper. Thats it. Both fixed under warranty years ago. It has been the best bad winter weather vehicle Ive ever driven and thats saying a lot here in Michigan! Its made me a Ford Guy again. I think you should buy one.

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  225K and going strong! - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By purdue83 - February 24 - 9:23 pm

  For anyone thinking about getting a Ford Expedition, dont think any longer! If you have the need for a people mover that is bulletproof, reliable, and of high quality, this is the vehicle for you.... I have had this Ford since new and now have 225K miles on it without any major problems... Just have changed the oil every 5k-10k miles, and kept up with scheduled maintenance...thats it. Have 3 teenagers into sports, hauling family for ski trips, etc - you get the picture...Once the wheels fall off this Ford, I wouldnt hesitate to get another one... hope this helps..

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  Not many fixes over 10 years - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By mgarrett30 - February 22 - 12:25 am

  Got my 00 Expedition in 01 and have not been upset with it. I have not had a payment on my SUV in over 5 years and have put very little money into it at this point. My wife and I keep talking about needing a new suv and have balked each time that it comes down to it. After not having a payment in 5 years and putting very little money into the truck, it is very difficult to justify the $550 for a new payment. Each time the tires wear down I keep telling my self that it is going to die and why put the money into it. Then winter comes and the tires outlast the car once again. The one thing that I have had to replace at this point are the coils, 4@$200ea. MPG are not good at 10-13 avg.

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  Joy, Pleasure,Work,Vacation,Towing,Kids - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By 01fordeb - February 13 - 9:57 am

  190,000 miles and still rolling. Maybe $1000 worth of repairs since new. A great ride. Would definitely by another but not until this one has seen its day.

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  Great family hauler - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By abmp - December 2 - 2:00 am

  Have 85k on our expedition and it has been a great vehicle. This vehicle does it all. We tow our camper, plow the driveway, and load it up for vacation (storage box on roof, basket on rear hitch). You cant find a crossover that will be this versatile. Gas mileage is not great but try to pack a family in a prius. Had a few minor problems but I usually fix myself. Overall an excellent vehicle and plan on purchasing another one in a few years.

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  Best Book Hauler in the World - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Road Warrior - November 18 - 2:00 am

  Purchased in 2006 with 38K on the clock, the truck now has 145K with no major repairs to engine, transmission,or 4WD system. Considering that I keep more than 1000 pounds of library book samples and other cargo in the truck on a 24/7 basis, Ive been surprised as to how serviceable it has been. The fold flat third row beats the heck out of the removable seat on my van. The ride and handling lend credence to most of the professional reviews and road tests. In one emergency maneuver, it definitely saved a few lives! I did have trouble with the front rotors warping, but cross drilled rotors on the front solved that problem for good. I have no plans to sell this truck until it hits 300K.

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  Bad electric motors - 2010 Ford Expedition
  By Frankfixer - November 18 - 2:00 am

  I purchased a 2010 expedition on November 9,2009 and on November 15th for the first time for the power window motor, they said it was fine and just greased it up, which was the beginning of my nightmare. Its now a year later n has been in for the same issue 9 times. Still not fixed. Of course when you bring it in for them to fix it the issue goes away and they continue to tell me theres nothing wrong with it cause they dont see what happens. I am a Ford man all my life. Thinking of buying a different vehicle.

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  Great ride - 2010 Ford Expedition
  By Frank - November 16 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the 2010 EB/EL model for the extra space and options. This made the 3200 mile trip with golf clubs, tons of people and luggage a piece of cake. The ride was exceptional and the Navigation system is great. Very pleased after three months of ownership. I hope it last.

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  Very Good... Just Not Great - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By rgkroeber - November 14 - 2:00 am

  Overall, Im satisfied with my 2008 EB Expedition EL. Nice ride, good mileage for a big SUV, no major mechanical problems the past 3 years. Interior comfort is just O.K., the seats were a bit firm at first and took a while to break in (not like the "lazyboys" that go into Suburbans and Yukons). The one niggling complaint Ive had with this vehicle is the power windows. All the window motors turned anemic just months after my purchase. No amount of shop adjustments/solutions ever helped this condition. Hit the window buttons and take a nap until they fully open/close. They also are prone to sticking in cold weather.

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  Best Car ever owned - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By Kenn Sa - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Of all the vehicles Ive owned inn the past 26 years, this is by far my favorite. In the 10 years I have owned it, it has never left me stranded. Ive replaced the tranny and performed routine maintenance and put in almost 190,000 miles. The interior controls are well placed and cabin space is very pleasing. The SUV handles well and still accelerates with verve.