Hi everyone, we’re planning to buy a Ford Expedition in the next couple of months. I’ve been seeing a lot of 2015-2017 models for good prices, but I’ve read mixed reviews about the 5.4 and the 3.5 EcoBoost engines.
What years/models should we avoid, and what’s been your experience with these SUVs?
For 2015-2017, I’d argue a Chevy Tahoe with the 5.3 might be a better option. I own a 2019 Expedition, and it’s been great up to the 60k miles I’ve put on it.
Olen said:
For 2015-2017, I’d argue a Chevy Tahoe with the 5.3 might be a better option. I own a 2019 Expedition, and it’s been great up to the 60k miles I’ve put on it.
How is it holding up now?
@Valen
I’d avoid those Tahoe years due to transmission issues. The 8-speed is problematic; you’d want a pre-2014 with the 6-speed instead. For Expeditions, we’ve owned a 2004, 2012, and 2016. Sold them at 180k, 160k, and 150k miles, respectively, with no major issues. The 2016 had the 3.5 EcoBoost and was solid.
If you’re looking at early models, the 1997-2002 Expeditions with the 2V engines are the safest bet—they’re reliable but feel dated.
For 2003-2006, the 4.6L engine is reliable but underpowered for the body. The 5.4 3V engines in this range can be trouble unless there’s a full service record showing consistent oil changes.
For 2015-2017, the 3.5 EcoBoost replaced the 5.4. If choosing between an early 3.5 EcoBoost and a late 5.4 3V, I’d go with the latter, provided it has a good maintenance history.
The 2009-2014 models are a sweet spot. By then, most bugs were worked out. The 5.4 3V engines are reliable if you use 5W-30 oil and stick to 5,000-mile oil changes. My 2012 has 192k miles and runs great.
If you’re looking at 2015-2017, the EcoBoost V6 gets slightly better mileage, but it might cost more to maintain long-term. Both are solid choices, though.
@Raine
I’ve got a 2011 with 140k miles, and it’s been great. Same deal—5W-30 every 5k miles. These are fantastic family SUVs with tons of space. Just keep up on the oil changes, and they’ll last.
Get a warranty, especially on newer models with more complex engines. Pre-2020 builds are generally reliable, but cam phasers can be an issue. Maintenance records are key. Ford’s modern engines are technical and need regular oil changes to stay healthy. I have a 2018 Lincoln Navigator, and while I love it, I’ve had cam phaser issues, wheel bearing replacements, and a transmission rebuild—all covered under warranty.
I have a 2016 EL 4x4 with 110k miles, and I would not recommend it. Issues include:
Even with the tow package, it struggles when pulling 7,500 lbs in high temperatures. The resale value isn’t great, either. My 2015 Yukon with similar mileage has been much better.
@Baylen
Do you have the tow package? I’m considering a 2017 with it. How heavy is your trailer?
Jai said:
@Baylen
Do you have the tow package? I’m considering a 2017 with it. How heavy is your trailer?
Yes, I have the tow package. My trailer weighs about 7,500 lbs wet. The overheating happens mostly in hot weather (90°F+). It’s a known issue with these engines under load.
I’ve owned both a 2016 and 2017 Limited Expedition. Both have been great. The 3.5 EcoBoost engines in these years are reliable and don’t have the cam phaser issues seen in the 2018+ models. Transmissions have also been solid. These trucks are a fantastic value under $20k.
Anything with a 2V V8 is bulletproof, so look at 2004 or older for the 5.4L. I’ve got 411k miles on my 2003 Eddie Bauer. It’s been a tank.
Kim said:
Anything with a 2V V8 is bulletproof, so look at 2004 or older for the 5.4L. I’ve got 411k miles on my 2003 Eddie Bauer. It’s been a tank.
Avoid 2004 specifically—it had a one-year-only transmission that’s hard to find parts for.