What are the most common Ford Expedition problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 13,920+ owner reports, the 1997-2025 Ford Expedition has 9 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 5.4L 3V Triton Cam Phaser and Timing Chain Failure, 5.4L 2-Valve Spark Plug Blow-Out From Cylinder Head, Air Suspension Compressor Failure and Rear Sag. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Ford Expedition reliable?
The 1997-2025 Ford Expedition has 9 known issues documented across 13,920+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 5.4L 3V Triton Cam Phaser and Timing Chain Failure and 5.4L 2-Valve Spark Plug Blow-Out From Cylinder Head. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Ford Expedition problems?
Repair costs for known Ford Expedition issues range from $20 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 5.4L 3V Triton Cam Phaser and Timing Chain Failure, typically costs $1,800-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Ford Expedition is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Ford Expedition. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 1997-2025 Ford Expedition with 9 documented issues documented across 13,920+ owner reports.
What is the 2004-2014 Ford Expedition 5.4L 3V Triton Cam Phaser and Timing Chain Failure?
The 5.4L 3-valve (3V) Triton V8 in 2004-2014 Ford Expedition is notorious for cam phaser failures and timing chain stretch, representing one of the most common and expensive repairs on these trucks. The VCT (Variable Camshaft Timing) system uses oil pressure to actuate the cam ph… Repairs typically run $1,800-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 1997-2008 Ford Expedition 5.4L 2-Valve Spark Plug Blow-Out From Cylinder Head?
The 5.4L Triton 2-valve V8 in 1997-2008 Expeditions is notorious for spark plugs ejecting from the aluminum cylinder heads. The 2-valve heads have only 4 threads holding each spark plug, which is insufficient for the clamping force needed. Over time, the threads strip and the spa… Repairs typically run $150-$400. Severity: high.
What is the 2003-2017 Ford Expedition Air Suspension Compressor Failure and Rear Sag?
The 2003-2017 Ford Expedition with optional air suspension (standard on Eddie Bauer, King Ranch, Platinum, and EL/MAX trims) suffers from air suspension compressor failure, air spring leaks, and ride height sensor malfunctions. The compressor, located under the vehicle, is expose… Repairs typically run $300-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2004-2010 Ford Expedition 5.4L 3V Triton Spark Plug Seizure and Blowout?
The 5.4L 3-valve Triton V8 in 2004-2010 Expeditions uses a unique two-piece spark plug design where the plug can seize in the aluminum cylinder head and break during removal. The lower portion of the plug (the hex section and electrode) frequently separates and remains stuck deep… Repairs typically run $200-$2,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2018-2022 Ford Expedition 3.5L EcoBoost V6 VCT Cam Phaser Rattle on Cold Start?
The 2nd-generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 in 2018-2022 Ford Expedition (Gen 4) addressed the timing chain stretch issue of early-generation 3.5L EcoBoost engines (2011-2016) but introduced a new problem: VCT (Variable Camshaft Timing) unit wear that causes a distinctive ticking/tapping… Repairs typically run $900-$2,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2003-2025 Ford Expedition Air Suspension Compressor Failure and Sag?
Expeditions equipped with the rear air suspension system experience compressor failure, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag. The compressor wears out from overwork — it cycles frequently due to slow air leaks in the air springs (bags) and supply lines. When the compressor fail… Repairs typically run $200-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2018-2025 Ford Expedition Rear Liftgate and Panel Water Leak?
The fourth generation (2018+) Expedition develops water leaks at the rear liftgate and D-pillar area. Water enters through deteriorated weatherstripping seals around the liftgate opening and through the rear tail light gaskets. The leak causes water to pool in the cargo area, beh… Repairs typically run $20-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2018-2025 Ford Expedition 10R80 Transmission Torque Converter Shudder?
The 10-speed 10R80 automatic transmission in 2018+ Expeditions develops a torque converter shudder during light acceleration between 35-55 mph. The shudder feels like driving over rumble strips and is caused by the torque converter lockup clutch slipping. The 10R80 aggressively l… Repairs typically run $150-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2003-2017 Ford Expedition HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure - Clicking and Incorrect Temperature?
The 2003-2017 Ford Expedition suffers from frequent HVAC blend door actuator failures. The Expedition has up to 5 individual blend door actuators (front driver temp blend, front passenger temp blend, front mode, rear temp blend, and rear mode) that control airflow direction and t… Repairs typically run $50-$700. Severity: low.
