Ford Expedition Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.29/5 Average
1,452 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 21 through 30 of 1,452.00
  • Best Ever Bolivia - 2004 Ford Expedition
    By -

    I live in LA Paz Bolivia and bought my 04 expedition on 07 with 70,000 miles. Now it has 162,000 and it just been crash twice really hard. Safety is the best issue with this summer. The roads are of the worst quality and the sun still feels really strong. It has never left me down or hanging and that is a plus five here in Bolivia. Traveled all over the country with absolutely no disappointment. I can really say ford Is built tough. I had even had to tow one of my other big truck uphill and it felt awesome for my truck to be able to do that. The best car ever!!!! I just wished it would keep a better value. But all the other pros outweigh the resale value. Just great

  • Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 1999 Ford Expedition
    By -

    I bought my baby new and it has 230,000 miles on it. No major problems, only routine maintenance (tires, batteries, brakes, oil changes, tune ups) over 15 years. I had to replace the heater/A/C diverter door at 227,000 miles at a cost of $237.00 at a body shop and now the park lights wont turn off after replacing the battery. Those are minor issues. Its in the shop now and regardless of cost, it will be repaired and Ill continue to drive it. It still looks great inside and out. I love it! I recently purchased a new car due to the high mileage and I hope my new Nissan (not a SUV) is as dependable. Would have purchased another Expedition, but I dont like the new body style.

  • Old Faithful with 200,000 miles - 1997 Ford Expedition
    By -

    The car that doesnt die. If you want reliability, this car doesnt get the props it deserves. It keeps going. We bought the car in 2011. After purchasing it, we realized that it hadnt had regular maintenance. Had never even had a tuneup and had the original spark plugs. We were a little worried but it has never given us one problem. We even took it climbing a few times and it faired well. The one con is that it doesnt have the power I would like. We dont feel comfortable pulling our 25 foot trailer with it. We solved that by recently purchasing the Excursion. Hope the Excursion will be as reliable as the Expedition

  • Best SUV in its class EVER !!! - 1999 Ford Expedition
    By -

    this is by far one of the best suvs built in the 2000s. sadly after 9 years we had to let her go, to get a newer more gas efficient suv, we got our EXPY used from a dealer with about 50k miles, I didnt EVER invested a penny in repairs other than oil changes, new tires (20s for the change of looks only) and smog checks. this suv had a lot of power, plenty of room, nice looks, design and interior as well as parts well equipped. my only deception? about 11 miles in city/ 14 in high way, no more! other than that I would be still driving it........

  • Good SUV - 2000 Ford Expedition
    By -

    I dont know why other expi owners are having problem with gas mileage in my case I am not experiencing this considering the SUVs size, weight, power, and comfort this is a win for the buck, we cant compare the gas mileage of this to smaller SUVs and cars, I guess driving attitude contributes a lot in gas mileage, I do a very slow acceleration from the start til it reaches the right speed comfort. Following the recommended PMS, check up, A?C cleaning will is the key also, right now I am enjoying my Expi for 14 years and still works well, without any problems, just did a tire change twice from year 2000-2014. I love this truck, as a long distance driver, I feel very secured with this.

  • Great Truck - 2001 Ford Expedition
    By -

    The menu did not allow you to select 5.4 l. I purchased with 21k miles and have loved this for over the road trips. I pulled an 8500 lb boat from Wash DC to Key West no problem. At 110k I replaced plugs and three coils not sweat. I did have to have the ball joints and universal replaced at around 100k. She still runs great. Recently got 17 mpg on a trip from Pittsburg Pa to Panama City fl 70+ mph. It now has 153k miles and I have no intention of ever getting rid of it. Have run synthetic oil since purchase and have the transmission serviced on a 40k schedule. Lucas transmission additive makes it shift smooth. Lucas fuel additive keeps the injectors clean.

  • Depends on hwo you evaluate things - 2000 Ford Expedition
    By -

    200,650 miles, mpg-avg 14 in city,17 hwy Improper original windshield install caused water to leak through dask and into fuse box causing lose of underhood lite, courtsey overhead maps lites, and rear wiper motor quit. Ford wouldnt cover it. Overhead map reading courtesy lites, just changing the bulbs major ordeal, micro thin electrical film circuitry under the bulb tore (1/8" wide). Unless you are an electrical engineer or know someone who is, you either get a new (whole overhead unit),used $50 if you pulled it from scrape yard, new approx $350 if you can get one. Extreme poor design, this and many other areas.

  • Would buy again! - 2004 Ford Expedition
    By -

    I bought mine in 07 with 40k+and I am about to hit an amazing 200k. Now that isnt that amazing but considering I have spent very little money outside of normal wear ant tear repairs. Engine, transmission, Dvd player, heated and cooled seats, side mirror defrosters etc..... all work great It is 2014 and I dont see it slowing down anytime soon. I am going to keep this truck until she dies!!

  • Cant go wrong with an Expedition - 2005 Ford Expedition
    By -

    We bought our Expedition with 72k miles in 2010. It now has 138k miles. In that time we have replaced the lower balljoints, one fuel injector (Ford recall). The only other items replaced were coil packs, a battery, spark plugs, and brake pads which are normal maintenance items. We absolutely love the vehicle and while we have also bought a truck and a car we refuse to get rid of the Expedition and use it for vacations. It suits every need we have and is extremely reliable and comfortable. We will drive this one until the wheels fall off, and once we cant put them back on anymore we will likely buy a new one. If youre good to it, it will definitely be good to you.

  • Best Used Truck I Ever Bought - 2001 Ford Expedition
    By -

    Ok, I didnt buy my Ford Expedition new. I purchased it used with 24k miles. It is now 2014 and the truck has just crossed 305k. It has been by far the BEST Vehicle I have ever owned. With the exception of normal maintenance and one fuel pump that died at 245K - The truck has always done the job. It has the original transmission and engine. It has traveled From Florida to Texas, up the entire East Coast and with any luck last until 350K. It will be a sad day when it finally dies

Ford Expedition Reviews By Year:
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