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 VEHICLE - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By ROCKYW - April 8 - 10:00 am

  This is the in my opinion rates top in its class for comfort, reliability, and safety. We purchased this vehicle mostly because of safety features and reliability. The only thing I would change would be the engine size,when towing a large boat it could use a bit more power.I should have purchased the (5.4L) insted of the (4.6L).

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  Head Gaskets should be a recall item - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By Mike - April 6 - 5:17 pm

  I bought my rig new and loved it until the warranty ran out. New power steering pump at 38,000 miles, would not come out of 4WD because of bad switch, then the big one at 60,000 miles - head gaskets went bad. $1,800 repair, new Ford parts and now - leaking again! Heard of several that have had this happen but Ford claims no knowledge of the problem and we are stuck. Fuel mileage lousy, 14 mph on highway and about 11 in city. Good power for towing with 5.4 engine. Love the ride, room, 3rd seat. Been a Ford driver all my life but will be hesitant to continue with the quality issues.

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  I love my Ford! - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By Sean McKenzie - April 3 - 3:52 am

  I am in construction as is my Ford Expedition we both handle it very well. It has all the power I need for towing yet a very smooth ride that my 6 month old daughter enjoys. It sticks to wet or even icy roads well and takes mud and rough terrain with ease. I change the oil and keep up on scheduled maintenance and it has never hinted at any mechanical problems to date. I realize it is not the funnest task to wrestle the third seat out if you need the extra space but other than the weight of the seat itself it unlatches nicely. I have 5 children who love riding in "daddys big truck" and would never put them in anything that I was not sure about. I am SURE about my Expedition.

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  Great so far - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By balty - April 1 - 1:14 pm

  I hate driving trucks, but got this thing anyway. And Im impressed. Note that my rating is relative to other trucks -- I drive a Continental normally, so these grades arent relative to it. For example, for a truck, my fuel economy rating is 9. Compared to the Continental, itd be about 4. See what I mean? As a 62" footer, Im comfortable. Power is so totally there, I dont know what the complaints are about -- and remember, Im used to a Continental. Im used to climate control -- set it and forget it. Itd be nice if it were standard on the truck this expensive (yeah, I could have looked harder). I replaced the stereo with a junkyard model with CD/cassette (2000 Explorer stereo).

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  super family truck - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By susan - March 31 - 6:07 pm

  I have owned 6 different SUVs and I find this new King Ranch beautiful, comfy and great for all your kids and their friends. Pulls in and out of parking lots with ease no blind spots. Fun to drive because its easy. Super++++

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  Its okay - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By Lulu - March 31 - 12:19 am

  Big repairs, but we put on big miles, too. We are on our third set of tires. Have had to replace the front hubs at about 160K miles. Amazingly comfortable for a big old tub thats as worn out as ours is. Midway, we had to replace the gas tank because it was warped and that cost about $900.

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  Fun but Could be better - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Sven - March 27 - 10:10 pm

  Fun vehicle. Great for a family of 5. It handles great, but could be better on the mechanics. Have had lots of problems with the driver seat, rattles in the dash, water leak from the rear window and a loud humming noise from the axle. The dealership has had the car for many issues. Gas mileage could be better, but what do you expect of a big truck. Even though we have had issues I would purchase another. Other cars same size do not compare with ride and room, also the deals and rebates Ford gives is much better than the rest.

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  Best of Class - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Frank Smith - March 25 - 10:00 am

  I have had my 2003 expedition EB about two weeks. I traded a 1999 expedition EB which I loved. The 2003 no longer has that truck ride, feel, or comfort. No flaws at this point. Gas mileage still a little weak. I have all the options and the DVD is nice but blocks your rear mirror view, in the seat like Cad would be better. I would rate this car a 9++ and I have owned many different brands and types.

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  Need I say more? - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By ItsAFord - March 21 - 6:00 pm

  Well, weve had issues with our Expedition just as others have. Little things breaking down--rear windshield washer, cheap interior materials, heated seats and mirrors failing. For a $40K truck new, you wouldnt know it by the lack of quality. Frustrating to say the least. We will not be buying another Ford Product. Our 20 year old Toyota Landcruiser is much more reliable than this Expedition. Plus fuel mileage--even with a new fuel filter and dealer servicing, its around 10 city and 14 highway.

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  Poor Quality Expedition - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Houstondude - March 19 - 12:28 pm

  My Expedition has just over 10K miles and it has been in for repair four times for the same problems. Rattles in the doors, squeaks in the back seat, and blue smoke pours out of the tailpipe upon cold start up. Ive also had trouble with the touchpad keyless entry, electric mirrors and the remote locks. The dealership has not fixed but one problem the first time in. I have had to clean out the car every time to allow them to evaluate the rattles. I purchased the extended warranty and the pre-paid maintenance plan. Buying this car from this manufacturer and this dealer was a horrible mistake. Ford will accept no responsibility for their own poor quality workmanship. Never Again - NO MORE FORDS!