The Ford Expedition has been a staple in the full-size SUV market since its debut in 1997. Built to replace the Bronco, it quickly gained a reputation as a versatile, family-friendly vehicle with plenty of power. Offering three rows of seats, exceptional towing capacity, and a commanding road presence, it became a favorite among drivers seeking comfort and capability. Over the years, Ford introduced various updates, adding modern technology, refining the design, and improving safety and fuel efficiency. However, as with any long-running vehicle, not every Expedition sailed smoothly. Here, we list five Ford Expedition years to avoid, based on reliability problems and lower-than-average owner satisfaction.

2003 Ford Expedition

The 2003 Ford Expedition is infamous for its reliability woes. Owners frequently cite significant mechanical and electrical issues, leading many to call it one of the worst model years in the vehicle’s history.

• Engine failures: The most alarming issue reported by 2003 owners is the engine shutting off unexpectedly while driving. This problem often came without warning, leaving drivers stranded or at risk of accidents. The issue was usually traced to faulty components in the engine control system.
• Transmission troubles: Transmission failures plagued this model, with drivers experiencing hard shifting, slipping gears, and, in some cases, complete transmission breakdowns. Repairing or replacing the transmission often came with a hefty price tag.
• Electrical problems: Electrical issues, including malfunctioning dashboard lights, power window failures, and erratic gauges, were common complaints. Wiring defects often caused these problems, compounding the frustration for owners.

While the 2003 Expedition offered plenty of space and a powerful V8 engine, these issues overshadowed its benefits.

2004 Ford Expedition

The 2004 Expedition improved upon some aspects of its predecessor but remained a troublesome year overall. This model year is notorious for several mechanical and cosmetic flaws that continue to haunt owners.

• Spark plug nightmares: The 2004 Expedition was equipped with a Triton V8 engine that had a well-known design flaw in its spark plugs. Spark plugs frequently broke during replacement, leading to costly repairs. Mechanics often needed special tools or even cylinder head replacements to address the problem.
• Rust and paint problems: The paint on the 2004 Expedition was prone to peeling, especially on the hood and roof. In some cases, rust developed underneath, further damaging the vehicle’s appearance and structural integrity.
• Transmission failures: Transmission reliability remained poor. Hard shifting, transmission fluid leaks, and outright transmission failure plagued this model year, requiring expensive overhauls.

While the 2004 model refined some features, the frequent maintenance challenges made it a costly vehicle to own.

2006 Ford Expedition

The 2006 Ford Expedition had its fair share of problems, making it another model year to avoid. Though it marked the last year of the second generation, reliability issues persisted.

• Engine stalling: One of the most dangerous issues reported by 2006 Expedition owners was random engine stalling. This often occurred without warning and was linked to faulty sensors or fuel system defects.
• Ignition coil failures: Owners experienced recurring problems with ignition coil failures, which caused engine misfires, reduced performance, and rough idling. These components often needed replacement multiple times during ownership.
• Electrical gremlins: Electrical glitches were a common complaint. Problems ranged from malfunctioning power windows and locks to failing air conditioning controls, adding to the frustration of owning this model year.

Despite its spacious interior and towing capability, the 2006 Expedition’s reliability issues make it a risky choice for buyers.

2011 Ford Expedition

While the third generation of the Expedition introduced significant improvements, the 2011 model year is an exception. Owners reported various mechanical and cosmetic issues that dampened the overall driving experience.

• Camshaft roller bearing failure: One of the most serious issues with the 2011 Expedition involved camshaft roller bearings. When these bearings seized, it caused significant engine damage, often requiring expensive repairs or even engine replacements.
• Paint quality issues: Paint blistering and peeling remained a recurring issue. Many owners reported that the paint deteriorated on the hood, roof, and other exposed areas, leading to rust and an unattractive appearance.
• Cruise control malfunctions: A particularly concerning issue involved cruise control malfunctioning, with some owners reporting unintended acceleration. This posed a significant safety risk and required immediate attention.

The 2011 offered plenty of space and comfort but fell short in long-term reliability. As such, it makes our list of Ford Expedition years to avoid.

2017 Ford Expedition

The 2017 Ford Expedition, despite being part of the fourth generation with modern updates, had notable issues that made it less reliable than expected.

• Power loss while driving: A common complaint among 2017 owners was sudden power loss, often linked to a faulty throttle body. This issue caused the engine to lose power without warning, making it a dangerous problem, especially at highway speeds.
• Transmission glitches: Many drivers experienced jerky gear shifts and delays in acceleration due to transmission issues. Some even reported total transmission failure, requiring extensive repairs.
• Infotainment and electrical problems: The 2017 model featured modern tech, but its infotainment system was riddled with glitches. Owners also reported issues with interior electronics, such as malfunctioning climate controls and backup cameras.

While the 2017 Expedition introduced appealing features, these reliability issues made it a year to think twice about.

Picking the right Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition remains a popular choice for families and adventurers, thanks to its spacious interior, impressive towing capacity, and powerful performance. However, some model years have been marred by reliability problems that can lead to costly repairs and frustrating ownership experiences.

If you’re considering buying a used Ford Expedition, you might steer clear of the 2003, 2004, 2006, 2011, and 2017 model years. These vehicles are notorious for engine troubles, transmission failures, electrical issues, and other costly problems. Instead, focus on years with better reliability ratings, such as the 2015 or 2020 models, which offer more dependable performance and fewer complaints.