My wife and I are looking to buy a used Ford Expedition from the 2015-2019 model years. Her parents have a 2024 Platinum Max, and it’s stunning, but we can’t afford something like that. We’re okay with something used that still suits our needs.
Is this forum helpful for advice on which years to avoid or good years to target, or is it just a lot of negativity about anything that isn’t brand-new? Any tips or recommendations would be appreciated!
I had the same experience when I was shopping. This forum tends to be a mix of opinions, and no matter what you’re considering, someone will complain about it. I was deciding between a Yukon XL and Suburban but ended up with an Expedition Max, and I love it. Do your research, find one you like, and you’ll be happy with it.
Look for something with under 12,000 miles per year. Anything higher could have more wear and tear. Personally, I’d avoid 2018-2019 due to early 10-speed transmission issues.
I had a 2007 that finally died in 2023, and I found a 2015 with only 15k miles. I replaced the tires, brakes, and struts since it had been sitting, but it’s been a tank since then!
I’ve owned several Expeditions, ranging from a 2007 to a 2017. My current one is a 2017 Limited EL with 110k miles, and it’s been solid with no major issues. The Triton V8s (pre-2018) are great if you’re okay with an older model and want to avoid potential EcoBoost problems.
I’ve heard the complaints about post-2017 Expeditions, but I love my 2019 XLT. After 85k miles, the worst issue was an AC leak. Otherwise, it’s been smooth and reliable.
I bought a 2018, and while I’ve had no issues, I also spent $5k on an extended warranty. The cam phasers and transmission issues for this model year are well-documented. If you can’t budget for a warranty, I’d avoid the 2018-2019 models.
Whatever you get, make sure you buy an extended warranty. I’ve been a mechanic for 25 years, and even good models can have expensive repairs. I bought an 18 Limited Max, and the warranty covered the cam phasers at 85k. Otherwise, it’s been great.
Go for a 2016 or 2017 before the newer generation. They’re more affordable and much more reliable. I got my 2016 for $12k last year, and it’s been bulletproof with basic maintenance. The newer models post-2017 are known for problems.
My wife had a 2019 Limited, and we dealt with the cam phaser issue and some transmission problems. Both were fixed under warranty, but it was still a headache. If you can, I’d recommend sticking with 2020 or newer, or even pre-2018.
As a former service writer, I’d recommend the 2015-2017 models or go 2020 and newer. Avoid 2018-2019—those were rough years with cam phasers and transmission issues.
If reliability is your top concern, look for a 2014 model. It’s the last year with the V8, which is less problematic than the EcoBoost engines. You’ll save money in the long run with a well-maintained V8.
I have a 2019 Expedition Max Limited. I love it, but it had the cam phaser issue right after I bought it. The dealership fixed it for free, and it’s been great ever since. Definitely consider a warranty if you go with this model.