My wife and I are looking into a 2019+ Expedition. I used to have the 3.5 EcoBoost in an F-150 with the dependable 6-speed transmission, and I really liked it—only issue was the sunroof leaking.
Now, I’m wondering what to expect with a newer Expedition that has around 30-40k miles. How does the 10-speed transmission hold up with higher mileage? I’m concerned a rebuild or replacement might cost a fortune. Honestly, why couldn’t Ford just use something like the 8-speed ZF or Aisin transmissions that other manufacturers rely on?
Ours just passed 50k miles. No major issues so far, though the power running boards sometimes get sticky and need a bit of lube. However, the transmission has started shifting rough between 7-8 and sometimes 4-5. We’re taking it to the dealer in a couple of weeks. Overall, we like it—so far.
@Raleigh
That’s exactly what worries me. I’ve read that a transmission tune can help smooth out the shifting. It seems to be more of a software issue than a hardware one. I’m torn between this and a Durango R/T. I like the ZF transmission in the Durango, but I trust the Expedition more overall—aside from the transmission.
@Raleigh
My 2006 with 135k miles just started acting funny between 3rd and 4th gear. When using cruise control to speed up, it feels like it slips or delays revving. I’m hoping it’s not a big issue.
I’ve always changed the oil and filter every 4k miles since it’s older, and I base it on mileage, not time. So far, the only major repair was replacing the throttle body sensor, which wasn’t too bad at $140, and I did it myself.
Fingers crossed the transmission holds up. Also need to replace these loud Wrangler Duratec tires soon—they’re driving me nuts.
Arin said: @Raleigh
Did you end up taking it to the dealer for the rough shifts? What did they say?
Yeah, took it in back in August. They said it needed a rebuild, but there was a two-month wait for parts. Finally dropped it off two weeks ago, and it’s been sitting on their lot ever since. They haven’t even started on it yet. Meanwhile, I’m stuck driving their loaner with no timeline for when my truck will be ready. Starting to regret not buying the Sequoia TRD Pro we test-drove instead.
@Dallas
That’s concerning. My 2013 Suburban’s 6-speed transmission is starting to fail at 200k miles, so we’ve been looking at Expedition Maxes and newer Suburbans. Now I’m nervous about towing with the Expedition. We’ve got a heavy fiberglass boat.
A well-maintained Expedition should last at least 200k miles, as long as the owner changes the oil every 5k miles, avoids overheating the transmission when towing, and services all fluids every 25-50k miles. But every vehicle is unique.
@Torrance
Fluids schedule: Trans fluid every 75k, coolant every 100k, brake fluid every 80-100k, diffs at 50k (30k if towing heavily). Oil every 5k. Rotate tires every oil change and balance them every other time. Alignment every 20k or as needed.