I’m looking at a 2009 Expedition XLT to haul around 3 car seats. Expecting twins soon, so we need something roomy, reliable, and low maintenance. This one’s got 135k miles, 4x4, 5.4L V8, 20 service records, mostly basic stuff up to 130k. They want $8,500 for it. I’m decent with tools, but what should I watch for? Is this a good deal? Thanks in advance.
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Sounds solid for the price, anyway check for timing chain issues with that engine. It’s a known problem, especially past 100k miles.
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135k? I’d definitely check for rust, especially around the rear quarter panels. My ‘07 was rusting bad by that point, cost me a fortune to fix. Also, how’s your back? Those car seats are a workout.
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I’ve got the same engine in my ‘10, works well, only major issue I had was the spark plugs being a nightmare to change, but if you’ve got tools, no big deal, right?
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8,500 seems decent. My buddy just bought one for $10k with fewer miles. Just be sure the air suspension isn’t shot – that’s a common problem and $$$ to replace.
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Dude, if you’re handy with tools, you’ll be fine. But heads up—this thing guzzles gas like it’s free. Expect to get real cozy with your local gas station. On the plus side, it’s awesome for camping trips.
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Make sure those service records include transmission fluid changes. I ignored mine in an ‘08, and let’s just say… Nvm
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Appreciate the heads up and sounds like rust and timing chain are the big ones. The gas part… yeah, I’m bracing for that. Guess I’ll have to cancel the extra hiking gear I was gonna buy, haha.
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The last thing you need is your Expedition becoming a tetanus hazard out in the wilderness, rust is often a dealbreaker for me.
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Rust’s annoying but manageable, I used to have a ‘99 Explorer with more rust than metal, still took it camping every year. Just slap some duct tape on it—works for tents, works for cars. 
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Duct tape only works on tents and your pride, man. That rust creeps everywhere. I’d rather hike in flip-flops than deal with another rust repair.
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Fair enough, flip-flops probably get better mileage too, lol. Either way, I think OP’s got a decent buy here as long as it’s not falling apart already.
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Haha… flip-flops might be the budget move I need after this purchase. Thanks for the advice, everyone—I’ll take a close look at the rust and maybe put my hiking trips on hold till I know more.