In order to help you avoid choosing the worst Ford Expedition model year, we have listed all Ford Expedition models for each generation.
With this guide, we’ll analyze the best and worst Ford Expedition generations, pointing out which years are the best and worst.
Through my meticulous research, I have compiled a comprehensive overview of the Expedition’s performance, issues, and highlights across its generations and model years using credible sources such as the NHTSA, VehicleHistory, and expert reviews.
Using details ranging from transmission and shifting issues to engine reliability issues, we categorize specific Ford Expedition years under each generation.
Let’s get started.
Ford Expedition Generations
With the introduction of the Ford Expedition in 1997, Ford successfully entered the market for large SUVs with a reliable, powerful vehicle.
In addition to its 4.6L or 5.4L V8 engine, ample interior space, and towing capability, the Expedition was introduced as a replacement for the Bronco and was equipped with a number of commendable features, making it a great choice for both large families and heavy-duty users.
From 1997 to the present, here is a list of all the generations of the Ford Expedition.
| Generation | Years |
| 1st generation (UN93) | 1997-2002 |
| 2nd generation (U222) | 2003-2006 |
| 3rd generation (U324) | 2007-2017 |
| 4th generation (U553) | 2018-Present |
Ford Expedition generations are crucial to understanding how the model has evolved over time, as it gives you insights into its evolution.
Ford Expedition Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
For the classification and ranking of Ford Expedition’s best and worst model years, we carefully consider the following factors:
Take a look at our categorized table, which highlights the best, neutral, and worst years of the Ford Expedition through the decades.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 1st generation (UN93) | 2002 | N/A | 19971998199920002001 |
| 2nd generation (U222) | 2006 | N/A | 200320042005 |
| 3rd generation (U324) | 20132014201520162017 | 20092010 | 2007200820112012 |
| 4th generation (U553) | 20222023 | 2019 | 201820202021 |
The category of neutral years refers to a time interval during which the models do not significantly differ in their dominant positive or negative traits.
The quality and reliability of a specific model year is heavily influenced by certain factors, such as NHTSA recalls, which can have a negative impact on the ranking – the higher the number of complaints and recalls, the lower the predicted reliability of the particular model.
Take a look at the best, neutral, and worst years of the Ford Expedition.
Best & Worst Years for Ford Expedition 1st Generation (1997-2002)
First introduced in 1997 to 2002, the Ford Expedition was built with size, power, and utility in mind to carve out a place in the full-size SUV market.
According to the manufacturer, 2002 is the best year for the Ford Expedition in the first generation of the vehicle, while 1999-2001 are the worst years for the Ford Expedition.
The Best Years: 2002
The 2002 Ford Expedition has relatively fewer recalls and complaints than its earlier generations, despite some persistent issues from the earlier models.
A 4-speed automatic transmission mated to a 4.6L Triton V8 engine that produced 232 hp and a 5.4L Triton V8 engine that produced 260 hp.
It achieved approximately 14 mpg city and 19 mpg highway, which was in line with what was expected of full-sized SUVs at the time.
Customers could also upgrade to the XLT trim, which added power-adjustable pedals and a rear air conditioner as additional comfort features.
With its two-tone paint and upgraded interior, Eddie Bauer added even more luxury to the SUV.
The braking system and transmission glitches did, however, raise concerns among some owners.
The Worst Years: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
There is no need to buy a Ford Expedition model year between 1997 and 2001.
Several problems associated with Ford Expeditions began in 1997. One of the most common issues was spark plug blowouts.
Throughout this generation, the 5.4L Triton V8 engine suffered from this issue, which plagued the following models in turn.
The 1997 Ford Expedition had many electrical problems, including total power outages, dashboard malfunctions, and transmission and brake failures.
In addition to these substantial issues, the fire risk has been a string of criticisms and concerns among owners of 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001 models. The deactivation switch on the speed control is cited as one of the major causes of fire accidents in detailed reports.
Over the past few years, there have been a number of recalls concerning significant issues, including automobile transmission cables that prevent disengagement from the park position and potential steering disconnection.
Recalls and complaints regarding Ford Expedition from 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001 can be found on NHTSA’s website.
Best & Worst Years for Ford Expedition 2nd Generation (2003-2006)
With notable design alterations, technology upgrades, and attempts to fix mechanical issues from the previous generation (2003-2006), Ford Expedition entered its second generation.
A Ford Expedition from the latest model year – 2006 – is the best year in the second generation, while the Expeditions from 2003-2005 should be avoided like the plague.
The Best Years: 2006
During 2006, the Ford Expedition was at its best as it was the latest model of its second generation.
There were two distinct engines available: a 4.6L Triton SOHC V8 delivering 232 hp and 291 pounds-feet of torque, and a powerful 5.4L SOHC V8 delivering 300 hp and 365 pounds-feet of torque.
Powered by two 4-cylinder engines, both cars were equipped with an automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride.
At the time, full-sized SUVs were expected to get between 12 and 17 miles per gallon in the city and highway.
Consumers had the choice of diverse, practical, and luxurious trim levels, including XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited.
By introducing AdvanceTrac stability control, its safety features were also improved.
It is important to note, however, that the 2006 Expedition did not come without its fair share of flaws. It has been reported that some owners have experienced brake wear and electronic glitches from time to time.
The Worst Years: 2003, 2004, 2005
Ford Expedition models from 2003, 2004, and 2005 are better avoided because of persistent spark plug blowouts and transmission problems.
In 2003, Ford Expeditions were criticized for a number of issues, especially relating to their electrical systems and transmissions.
The revised 5.4L Triton V8 engine was affected by spark plug blowouts, an issue that started with the first generation.
Various reports of window regulators going bad and power outages occasionally occurred due to the electrical system as well.
Due to rusty brake lines, owners had to deal with leaking brake fluid and escalating rotor wear, reducing the effectiveness of the braking system.
In addition, transmission failures resulted in engine stallings that were often unanticipated.
There were numerous consumer reports concerning electronic throttle control issues, engine issues, and transmission hesitation or failure.
A list of Ford Expedition recalls and complaints can be found at NHTSA for 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006.
Best & Worst Years for Ford Expedition 3rd Generation (2007-2017)
The Ford Expedition (2007-2017) entered its third generation with striking design changes and technological advancements to enhance its status in a burgeoning SUV market.
In this generation, you should avoid the Ford Expedition years 2007-2008, 2011-2012. During the 2013-2017 model years, Ford Expedition was at its best and most reliable.
The Best Years: 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
Is there a best year for used Ford Expeditions? In 2013-2017, the Ford Expedition experienced significantly fewer recalls and complaints from NHTSA and received outstanding ratings from Kelley Blue Book, VehicleHistory, Cars.com, and J.D Power.
These models were typically powered by two engines: a 5.4L V8 (2007-2014) giving off 310 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (2015-2017) with 365 horsepower and 420 pounds-feet of torque.
Fuel efficiency was approximately 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway with both options when they were initially equipped with a 6-speed 6R80 automatic transmission.
In addition to the XLT and Limited trim levels, King Ranch and Platinum trim levels were available later on.
Several advanced technological advancements have been made in these vehicles, including the new SYNC 3 infotainment system, blind-spot monitoring, and improved towing capability (thanks to Trailer Backup Assist).
The Neutral Years: 2009, 2010
The Expedition’s performance between 2009 and 2010 was middle-of-the-road, rendering it adequate to the other years of this generation without any glaring problems or excellence.
Ford’s MyKey system was introduced in 2010 in these models, which allowed drivers to adjust maximum speed limits and audio volumes.
As well as a sturdy 5.4L V8 engine, these years continued to offer a powerful engine.
The 2009 Ford Expedition has been reported to have paint peeling problems by some owners.
The Worst Years: 2007, 2008, 2011, 2012
Which Ford Expedition years should be avoided? You should avoid the Ford Expedition models of 2007, 2008, 2011, and 2012. This is why:
It has been reported that owners have experienced a wide range of problems, such as spark plug blowouts, fuel leaks, brake failures, excessive paint peeling, subframe corrosion, and unnerving dashboard malfunctions.
Moreover, the 2007 Ford Expedition was recalled because it had a fuel rail crossover hose that leaks fuel.
Will 2011 be a good year for the Ford Expedition? Not at all. An unexpected downshift occurred with the 6R80 transmission in Ford Expedition models in 2011 and 2012. Ford responded with a recall to address the issue.
Numerous grievances were also persistent regarding paint peeliIn 2011 and 2012, Ford Expedition models experienced an unexpected downshift with their 6R80 transmissions. Ford responded by recalling the vehicles
A list of Ford Expedition recalls and complaints from 2007 to 2012 can be found on the NHTSA website.
Best & Worst Years for Ford Expedition 4th Generation (2018-2023)
With robust mechanics, cultivated interiors, and modernized technology, the Ford Expedition made significant strides in its fourth generation.
Among the Ford Expedition years, 2022 and 2023 are the most reliable. You should avoid the Ford Expedition years of 2018, 2020, and 2021.
The Best Years: 2022, 2023
There is no doubt that Ford Expedition’s 2022 and 2023 models represent the best years of the fourth generation, featuring significant improvements and minimizing issues.
Some higher trim levels include a powerful 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, while standard models offer 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.
These models are powered by a 10-speed 10R80 SelectShift automatic transmission. However, they do maintain reasonable fuel economy at around 17 mpg in town and 23 mpg on the highway.
In addition to XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum trim levels, there are a variety of trim levels that offer varying levels of luxury.
In addition, Ford introduced Co-Pilot360, the combination of lane-keeping assistance and blind-spot monitoring that brought a modern edge to the car.
The Neutral Years: 2019
Neither incredibly problematic nor strikingly flawless, the 2019 Ford Expedition navigates an equilibrium between reliability and performance.
Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, enhanced driver assistance features, and the 3.5L V6 were among the highlights. However, the 3.5L V6 still received a great deal of criticism.
Several owners reported rattling and knocking sounds coming from the hood, indicating hard shifting or cam phaser failures.
While its advanced features and few critical issues put it in a neutral position among its peers, its reasonable balance of advanced features makes it a desirable choice among the generation.
The Worst Years: 2018, 2020, 2021
Ford Expedition years 2018, 2020, and 2021 are categorized as the years to avoid because of numerous recalls and owner complaints.
It was recalled because of fuel pump assembly welds that might fracture, as well as dislodged gear shift cable clips in the 10-speed transmission, which could indicate a false “Park” setting.
The infotainment system also had frequent glitches and malfunctioned auto start/stop systems.
A major concern in the 2020 Ford Expedition centered on the 10-speed transmission. It was noted that the transmission jerked, slipped, and hard-shifted frequently.
A recall regarding engine compartment fire risks when parked further strained the reputation of the Ford Expedition 2021.
Ford Expedition recalls and complaints in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 are available at the NHTSA website.
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Conclusion
Based on the extensive historical record of the Ford Expedition, it is apparent that three of its best years are 2013-2017 and 2022-2023. This is the tenth year of the Expedition. A combination of modern features and reliability has been ensured during these years.
Which Ford Expedition model has been your favorite or your least favorite over the years?
Let us know what you think in the comments!