My wife is considering a used 2019 Expedition with 78,000 miles. I’m struggling to justify the price of a new one, so I’m leaning toward this used option.
For those who own one: would you buy an Expedition with this mileage? And if you have, would you do it again?
I’d be cautious about the variable cam timing issues that these engines can develop around that year and mileage. It causes loud knocking on startup until oil pressure builds, and fixing it means rebuilding the top half of the engine—a costly repair.
Also, if you have kids in car seats, avoid the 2019 Platinum. The second-row airbag seat belts are unsafe for car seats. We couldn’t replace them and had to trade ours in.
We had a ton of other issues too—sunroof replaced four times, passenger seat broke, BCM replaced multiple times, and the infotainment screen delaminated. Maybe ours was a lemon, but it soured me on that year. If you go for it, definitely get a warranty and check for recalls.
@Kelsey
That’s with the older EcoBoost. The newer generation doesn’t have that problem, though the transmission is still an issue.
Omar said:
@Kelsey
That’s with the older EcoBoost. The newer generation doesn’t have that problem, though the transmission is still an issue.
The 2019s definitely have the cam phaser issue.
I had a 2018 Expedition and wouldn’t buy another. Bought it with 56k miles, and by 90k it needed a full transmission rebuild. At 120k, the timing chain and cam phasers destroyed the engine, which had to be replaced. 10k miles after that, the transmission failed again.
I loved the vehicle otherwise, but the mechanical issues were a nightmare.
We bought a 2022 Limited Max with 36k miles for $48k last year from Hertz. I was holding out for the new Sequoia, but the prices and wait times were insane.
I had the transmission fluid and filter changed right away and reset the adaptive shifting curve. Did some mods like a 3-inch level kit, tinted windows, and roof racks. So far, it’s been solid, but I’m ready to ditch it if the engine or transmission starts acting up.
@Pierce
Can you post a picture?
I bought a 2018 Expedition XLT Max and couldn’t be happier!
Go for a new one if you can. We bought one recently and love it. Dealers in our area are offering $8k off MSRP with 0.9% financing for four years.
Jaden said:
Go for a new one if you can. We bought one recently and love it. Dealers in our area are offering $8k off MSRP with 0.9% financing for four years.
That’s a big leap from $38k to $75-80k though!
Just sold mine before the turbos or transmission went out. It’s not a matter of if, but when.
It depends on whether the recalls have been addressed. Cam phaser replacements and transmission fixes are key. You can check for recalls using the VIN here: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls.
I have a 2018 Navigator, and they’re replacing my entire transmission under warranty after trying and failing to replace the CDF Drum. If you get one, make sure you have a good warranty.
Thanks for all the input! The dealer is offering a 5-year unlimited warranty with it for $34,500. I’ll definitely check on the recalls before making a decision.
Shiloh said:
Thanks for all the input! The dealer is offering a 5-year unlimited warranty with it for $34,500. I’ll definitely check on the recalls before making a decision.
I’ll sell you mine for that price—2019 XLT, black on black, under 60k miles. Transmission was just rebuilt by the dealership, and it’s problem-free. Looks brand new!
I bought a 2018 in 2020 with 26k miles. It was fine until 77k miles when it dumped all its coolant during a drive. Ended up needing a water pump, timing chain guides, left bank head gasket, and cam phasers replaced.
The engine always sounded terrible because of the cam phasers, but now it’s quiet after the repairs. I’d recommend getting an extended warranty if you decide to buy.
My 2019 F-150 with the 3.5 EcoBoost has the cam issue and startup rattle. The 10-speed transmission has been harsh since day one, and it’s only gotten worse. All the dealer does is reprogram it. Be careful with anything using the 10R80 transmission.
I have a 2003 with 264k miles. It’s still going strong! If the engine ever goes, I’ll just replace it and keep driving.
Aza said:
I have a 2003 with 264k miles. It’s still going strong! If the engine ever goes, I’ll just replace it and keep driving.
I’m at 287k miles. Threw a rod at 247k and replaced the engine, but it’s been great since. Bought the engine from a Ford dealer, and my husband installed it himself.
I have a 1999 Eddie Bauer edition with 189k miles. I prefer the older 5.4 engines without the cam phasers or fancy tech. If you’re considering one with 78k miles, make sure to check maintenance records, especially for cam phaser issues.