I’m looking at a 2019 Ford Expedition Limited with 101,000 miles for $23,000. The main reason I’m considering it is because I need more space than my current 2016 Tahoe.
Are there any known issues with this model? Also, can I realistically expect it to hit 200,000 miles without major problems?
After reading through all your feedback, I’ve decided to go with a 2020 or older Tahoe/Yukon instead. Seems like the Expedition still has a lot of issues, and I just read that Ford leads all automakers in recalls, which makes me uneasy.
Not a ton of these newer Expeditions have hit 200K miles yet, so long-term reliability is still a question mark. But there are some known issues to be aware of:
Cam phaser rattle (annoying and expensive to fix)
Turbo wastegate rattle
CDF drum bushing shifting in the transmission
Power running boards can seize up if not cleaned and lubricated regularly
If you’re meticulous with maintenance—not just oil changes but all preventive maintenance—it should last a long time. Just be prepared for potential headaches along the way.
@Parker
Never heard of issues with the power running boards, but that makes sense since they get so much use. Is there a DIY guide on maintaining them?
Toby said: @Parker
Never heard of issues with the power running boards, but that makes sense since they get so much use. Is there a DIY guide on maintaining them?
Yeah, I’ve seen guides online. Ford recommends a Motorcraft spray grease, but I’ve found that stuff attracts too much dirt and turns into a sticky mess. I usually pressure wash them to remove old gunk, hit them with PB Blaster or Break-Free, then coat with Fluid Film to prevent buildup. Also, make sure to cycle them up and down regularly to keep them moving freely.
@Parker
That sounds like a lot of little annoying issues to deal with. Thanks for the heads-up!
I really like the Expedition, but I keep hearing about these problems—plus the transmission concerns. I might stick with a newer Tahoe or Suburban instead. My Tahoe has over 200K miles with no major problems.
@Soren
To be fair, the latest GM trucks have their own set of issues—AFM lifter failures, and their version of the 10-speed (10L80) has known problems too. There aren’t many full-size SUVs to choose from. If you rule out the Expedition and Tahoe, your other options are the Jeep Wagoneer, Toyota Sequoia, and Nissan Armada.
@Parker
Yeah, that’s what makes it so tough to decide. I’ve heard about AFM lifter issues, but my Tahoe has made it to 200K without any problems (knock on wood!).
I did consider the Toyota Sequoia and Lexus GX (pre-2020 models), but honestly, I wasn’t impressed. No Apple CarPlay, and they felt outdated compared to the competition.
@Soren
I had a 2007 Tahoe and just had an AFM lifter fail at 250K miles. That’s when I bought a 2019 Expedition with 93K miles. First day I brought it home—check engine light. Turned out to be a cam sensor, which led to replacing the cams, cam phasers, timing chain, and all related sensors.
Then, a week later, the transmission slipped out of gear at 65 mph. Dealership recommended a full replacement. Luckily, the place I bought it from had a 3,000-mile warranty, so I didn’t have to pay out of pocket. Whatever you buy, get an extended warranty!
Tavi said: @Soren
Just FYI—Consumer Reports actually ranks the Tahoe/Suburban lower than the Expedition in reliability.
Interesting. Do you know what year range they were talking about? I’m mainly looking at 2016-2020 since I don’t want to spend more than $30K due to depreciation.
I’m in the same boat. I really want a 2019-2020 Platinum, but after test driving one, I could literally smell the engine burning. Might’ve just been a neglected unit, but all these horror stories have me second-guessing too.
Just bought one myself. The transmission is a weak point in this model.
I factored in the cost of a future replacement and bought mine at a price that made sense. Hopefully, I won’t need it, but if I do, I know I might be without my car for a few weeks while it gets fixed. Make sure you’re okay with that risk.
@Kai
That’s what I keep hearing—the transmission is a ticking time bomb. I really like the Expedition, but I think I’ll stick with a newer Tahoe instead. My current one has been rock solid past 200K miles.
@Soren
I heard the same thing about my 2017 Expedition’s EcoBoost engine, but I’m at 170K miles with the original engine and transmission. No major issues, just routine maintenance.
Cairo said: @Soren
I heard the same thing about my 2017 Expedition’s EcoBoost engine, but I’m at 170K miles with the original engine and transmission. No major issues, just routine maintenance.
That’s good to hear! Do you think some people just don’t take care of their vehicles as well as they claim?
There aren’t many full-size SUVs to choose from. If you rule out the Expedition and Tahoe, your other options are the Jeep Wagoneer, Toyota Sequoia, and Nissan Armada.