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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  Great family hauler - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By mike - September 24 - 2:00 am

  Im a die-hard ford guy and the expedition did not prove me wrong. Have ran it 3 years and 80k. Only has needed brakes and tires. Rear seat material seems to be a little dry rotted but with 2 boys it doesnt really matter. Always runs strong, wife loves it. Bought a new fusion but the wife will never give up her expedition. When we go on vacation, we put a bubble on the roof, rear basket on the hitch and shes good to go. Found a homeowners plow for the front and she even plows the driveway in the winter. Need to tow no problem. Have towed 5500 lbs piece of cake. Now looking at a camper to tow. You cant find a crossover with good mpg that will do as much.

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  Still Glad I own it - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By TW - September 23 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new in 2004. Has custom steering wheel and faux wood dash from dealer. This SUV is great. Simple comfort and easy to drive. Much better handling once I got rid of the Contitrac tires that came OEM and upgraded to some excellent Goodyear Forteras. Only one maintenance problem with rear compressor which was ~$450 to replace. Only have 47,000 miles on the truck. I think this truck will last a long time.

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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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  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.

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  I call it a truck - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Vic - August 13 - 2:33 pm

  Im a working musician/bandleader. My band performs at upscale banquets and hi end country clubs,. we often work in tuxedos. I need a vehicle that is both presentable and functional. My Black expedition has served me well and I continue to be very pleased with it. I do however, I only have two comments. I dont need third row seats, I prefer not to pay for Leather seats that are berried under cargo. Give me the option of storage compartments in that area instead. My second comment is to provide some tie downs in the cargo area. Hopefully, Ford realizes that Expedition owners and drivers arent all soccer moms.

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  4th One! - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By JDB - August 10 - 2:12 pm

  Considering the price of these vehicles’ new, I always look for a new used one. Believe me, no one else knows or cares. At over 50K brand new, I get the same luxury for around 30K, or less. I think the Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer, is one of the most awesome SUVs on the market today. They are as reliable and dependable as any Toyota, and like Toyota, they don’t change style much. For an SUV, you just can’t go wrong. I have 160K on mine now, and it purrs like a kitten. But, as an engineer, I can’t stress to you the value of maintenance!! You keep the fluids changed and tune it you will be one happy camper. ALL of

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  Happy Ford Owner - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Happy Ford Owner - July 27 - 2:54 pm

  I bought my Expedition in 2001. I have had to replace the transmission, two coils, and wheel bearing, ball joints and some other stuff. Now at 138,00 miles and in the shop again. But for some reason I just cant let this truck go. I just bought a Mercedes ML350. But i couldnt trade in my Ford. I just Love It. Its been fixed up just for me and I cant let it go.