I’m considering buying a 2017 Expedition with 55k miles for $22k. It looks clean and has the heavy-duty tow package. My main concern is reliability—would I be better off spending more on a 2021 or 2022 for around $45k? Would love to hear your thoughts!
The 2017 is actually more reliable than newer ones. The 6-speed transmission is far better than the newer 10-speeds, which have been plagued with cam phaser issues. The 2015-2017 models are solid trucks with a few minor issues here and there. At 55k miles, you should be good for a long time if you stick to regular oil changes with high-quality oil.
Think of it this way: the odds of needing $23k in repairs to justify buying a newer model are basically zero.
I bought my 2017 brand new, and it’s almost at 200k miles now. I’ve only done scheduled maintenance, and it’s still going strong. I tow a 30-foot camper and a boat regularly, and it handles it like a champ. Planning to hit 300k with it!
@Vail
That’s great to hear! I’m planning to do some towing as well.
Grier said:
@Vail
That’s great to hear! I’m planning to do some towing as well.
Mine tows beautifully, especially with the tow package. Just a heads up—I replaced the catalytic converter at 94k miles. When I was shopping, I specifically looked for a 2017 because:
- The price drop compared to newer models was significant.
- The 10-speed transmission in 2018+ models has caused a lot of issues, even in F-150s.
I also got an extended warranty, and it paid off within six months for minor and major repairs. Not everyone likes warranties, but for me, it was worth it.
I bought one with 60k miles and now it’s at 111k. Had to replace the shocks and fix a small coolant leak (under $1k). I live on a rough country road, so that’s expected. It’s been dependable and rides great, though the cab noise has increased over time. For $22k, I’d say it’s a solid deal.
Ours had over 150k miles when we traded it in. The 3.5L EcoBoost engine is just as powerful as the old 5.4L V8 and towed our camper without issues. Mileage was decent—17 city, 21 highway. The only annoyances were Sync 3 and some rear camera/parking sensor issues. Other than that, oil changes and minor maintenance kept it running great.
@Jonah
Just a heads up, there was never a 5.9L in the Expedition. The older models had 4.6L and 5.4L Triton engines.
Jagger said:
@Jonah
Just a heads up, there was never a 5.9L in the Expedition. The older models had 4.6L and 5.4L Triton engines.
You’re right—my mistake! It was the 5.4L in our 2008.
We have a 2017 Limited with the 3.5 EcoBoost. Bought it at 50k miles, and now it’s at 208k. Only major repairs were a water pump and a rear wiper motor. Otherwise, it’s been super reliable.
With that mileage, the 2017 should last a long time. I’m driving an ’03 with 270k miles and no plans to sell it. If you don’t mind slightly older vehicles, they’re much easier to maintain and repair. Spending $45k on something newer isn’t worth it unless you really want the updated features.
That said, the gas mileage is bad no matter what model you get, so keep that in mind!
We bought a 2017 with 103k miles two years ago, and now it’s at 154k. Repairs so far: water pump, shocks, coolant fitting on a turbo, master cylinder, and brake booster. The master cylinder issue was scary—apparently, earlier models had recalls for it. Overall, though, I’m happy with it and hoping to double the mileage!
We’ve got a 2017 EL Limited. Bought it in 2019 with 40k miles, and it’s now at 125k. It’s been rock solid. Last year, we had an issue with the HVAC shutting off on Max AC, but a recall fixed it. It’s still one of our daily drivers and has been a great vehicle.