When you’re shopping for a used Ford Expedition, it’s a good idea to know what you’re getting yourself into! Our used buying guide walks you through some common issues we’ve seen in these full-size SUVs.
Key Takeaways
- Avoid used Expeditions model years from 2003 to 2006, due to frequent problems and high repair costs.
- Used Expeditions from 2018 to 2024 come with the highest reliability scores!
- Regardless of model year, about 31 percent of Expeditions suffer from engine issues. Around 28% experience AC and electrical issues.
- Annual Expedition repair costs are on the affordable side, ranging from about $100 to $500.
- At Jarrett Ford, we inspect used Expeditions for known problems, and we only sell the models that exceed our high expectations!
Best and Worst Model Years
The Worst Expedition Model Years
Ford enthusiasts generally caution buyers against second-generation Expedition models produced between the 2003 and 2006 model years. Not only are these models known for generating the most complaints from drivers, but they’re also expensive to repair.
The Best Expedition Model Years
You can avoid a lot of known issues by choosing from more recent Expedition model years. Third-generation models (2007-2017) garner far less complaints than previous models. Better still, Car and Driver gives these used SUVs a 4 out of 5 for reliability. Fourth-generation (2018-2024) models fare even better, with a 5 out of 5!
Common Repairs
Regardless of model year, the majority of Expedition repairs — 32 percent — focus on engine troubles. The next-most problematic area, contributing to 28 percent of issues, is the Expedition’s electrical system and AC unit. Less commonly, customers find themselves at the shop to fix transmission, suspension, braking, or body work troubles.
Common Customer Complaints
- MyFord Touch infotainment system: Found in 2011-2015 models, customers complain about this technology’s overly complex menu structure, unresponsive touchscreens (screen goes black or freezes), and inability to recognize smartphones. For 2016, the more popular SYNC 3 infotainment system replaced MyFord Touch, and it managed to avoid these issues as well as any class-action lawsuits.
- Spark plugs break off in the Triton V8 engine: With their two-piece shell design, spark plugs from the 2004-2008 model years were designed to last 100,000 miles. When it came time to replace them, however, many drivers found they easily broke apart, leaving part of the plug stuck in the cylinder head.
- Spark plug ejected from cylinder head: This issue tends to happen long after a Triton V8 engine has surpassed 100,000 miles, and it commonly happens in much older models years, circa 1999-2003.
- Corrosion on hood: 2000-2010 Expeditions featured aluminum hoods that weren’t insulated from surrounding parts, making them susceptible to corrosion.
Your Repair Costs Forecast
The average Expedition doesn’t need many repairs before it hits 36,000 miles. From 48,000 to 72,000 miles, annual repairs average between $200 and $400. That’s not too shabby, especially compared to many competitors. Purchasing a recent model year with low mileage is a great idea for drivers who want to avoid troubleshooting the Expedition.
According to a True Delta survey, the majority of Expedition repairs cost less than $500. Better still, a full 28 percent don’t surpass $100! Only 3 percent of problems cost more than $2,500 — an observation that should help most drivers rest easy.
Avoid Common Expedition Issues
Typically, even drivers who run into trouble down the road wouldn’t trade the Expedition’s expansive comfort, smooth ride, and outsized power for anything. And drivers who find a used Expedition in excellent condition can keep it that way through proper maintenance. Have your mechanic perform regular performance checks, and you can head off plenty of problems before they even begin!
Ford Warranty Coverage
Since Ford’s new-vehicle warranty is transferrable to the next owner, you can buy some peace of mind by shopping for a used Expedition with remaining coverage. Ask your dealership rep about models that fall within Ford’s warranty coverage periods to enjoy perks like free repairs on qualifying parts!
Ford’s new-vehicle warranty includes:
- Bumper-to-bumper coverage: 3 years/36,000 miles
- Powertrain coverage: 5 years/60,000 miles
- Corrosion coverage: 5 years/Unlimited mileage
Our Used Expedition Inventory
We know the Ford Expedition inside and out — and that’s why we’re so good at selecting the highest-quality used models for resale at our dealership! When we come across a used Expedition that looks like it might be a great addition to our inventory, our mechanics perform an in-depth inspection to make sure that it actually is. Not only do we examine each SUV for common issues, but we also make sure it’s going to uphold our reputation for quality and reliability. Browse our used Expedition inventory online and call us to schedule a test-drive!