I took a '23 Expedition XLT Max for a test drive over the weekend, and I’ll probably sign the papers on Monday. But I’ve been seeing a lot of questions about cam phaser issues and transmission problems. This one was a rental before, with about 34,000 miles on it. Any advice?
I wouldn’t touch a rental, especially not an Expedition, unless it’s an absolute steal and you have full maintenance records. Ecoboost engines need oil changes every 5,000 miles at most. Rentals sometimes don’t get serviced on time. I had a rental recently where the oil change was overdue, and the rental staff didn’t seem too bothered when I mentioned it. Make sure you can verify its maintenance history.
What’s the price and where are you located? If it’s not a great deal, I’d stay away from a former rental. Need more details to help you out.
Usually, rental companies stick to a strict maintenance schedule. But just because it’s labeled as a rental/fleet doesn’t mean it was a rental. Leased vehicles are also marked as fleet sometimes.
Finley said:
Usually, rental companies stick to a strict maintenance schedule. But just because it’s labeled as a rental/fleet doesn’t mean it was a rental. Leased vehicles are also marked as fleet sometimes.
It could also have been a dealership loaner car.
I’d recommend getting an extended warranty that covers transmission rebuilds. The transmission issues are real. I have a 2019, and the transmission failed at 35,000 miles, but it was still under warranty. Without that, the repair would’ve cost around $10,000.
Other than that, it’s a solid car. I love mine, except for the navigation system—it’s pretty bad. Just use Apple CarPlay. Mine got us out of 3 feet of snow during a storm. The seating flexibility is great, too. I can fold all the seats to fit my bike or put them up for passengers.
@Tennyson
Yes, exactly this! We have a 2018, and when the issues started, it was under warranty. The car broke down and went into limp mode while I was doing 80 mph on the interstate. I had to move across three lanes to pull off safely, alone with my kids. It was terrifying. The dealer initially found nothing wrong. By the time it happened again, the warranty had expired, and the transmission was done. Ford didn’t help at all. We’ve spent $20,000 on repairs in just two years, plus now the cam phasers and turbo are acting up.
@Cory
That’s awful and so scary. Mine failed in a similar way—80 mph on the interstate, going uphill, in the left lane. I had to drift over to the shoulder with hazards on, and a trucker was kind enough to let me over. My dealer was really good, but it’s so hit or miss. Sorry you had such a rough time. It’s just not fair, and the costs add up fast.
If you decide to go for it, get PremiumCARE up to 175,000 miles. It’ll cover you if the transmission or engine fails. Also, stick to using high-quality synthetic oil and change it every 3,000 miles. It’ll cost about the same as a tank of gas.
What’s the price?
Don’t do it. Buying my Expedition was the most expensive mistake I ever made.