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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  14 years of driving - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By objr - March 9 - 9:58 pm

  I bought her when my second son was born, traded in the 4 Runner. Towed the boat many miles and slept in the back camping many days. Snow, mud, rain did not slow her down. No major maintenance issues beyond a stuck shifter, compressor and alternator. Approaching 200,000, hot in winter, cold in summer. in a foot of snow and pulling a hill, nothing can stop her. I wanted to jump on the Obama $4,500 clunker deal but I couldnt bring myself to dumping her, they were going to seize her engine. It would be like putting my dog down, could not do it. I will drive her until she dies which will probably be around 280,000 to 300,000 miles.

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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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  Love it - 2009 Ford Expedition
  By paula - December 1 - 2:00 am

  The Expedition Limited has been a great vehicle for our family of 5. We havent had any mechanical issues and it drives like a dream. The gas mileage isnt too bad for this type of vehicle. I have considered downsizing but I have a hard time giving up the luxury. I really like the look and comfort.

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  Dont buy - 2006 Ford Expedition
  By DONT BUY - November 22 - 2:00 am

  This is the worse SUV I have owned, I have to replace a coil every 2-3 months, it stalls sometime when driving. The factory spark plugs breaks off in the head of the motor, costing $300 to $2500 to replace, you have to remove the motor head, sometime the motor to remove the broken plug. Ford should have recalled the cars, trucks, and suvs thats having these problems.

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  Do not buy ford - 2010 Ford Expedition
  By backdr10 - November 19 - 2:00 am

  This is the third expedition that I have owned . Fords customer service has not changed since 2003. I spent over 50 k on this vehicle and after 800 miles , 3 dealerships, and 6 visits to the shops I still have a vibration in the front end. The people at Ford try to tell you that its normal and that nothing is wrong , but with each visit tires are rebalanced -taken off of the rims rotated and still a vibration. So one tire is found to be bad and replaced, but nothing is being done about the others that will not keep a balance. Ford completely insults my intelligence and treats me as if I am crazy. This is a damned joke. It does not matter if you are loyal to Ford and it certainly does not mat