2000 Ford Excursion
The 2000 Ford Excursion is a full-size SUV known for its immense size, towing capacity, and passenger space. Engine options included the 5.4L Triton V8 (255 hp, 350 lb-ft of torque), the 6.8L Triton V10 (310 hp, 425 lb-ft of torque), and the 7.3L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (275 hp, 525 lb-ft of torque). All engines were paired with the 4R100 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Excursion for its ability to comfortably haul large families and tow heavy loads, while common complaints revolved around its poor fuel economy, difficult maneuverability in tight spaces, and overall size.
Engine
5.4L Triton V8
- Spark Plug Blowout
- Description/Symptoms: The spark plugs can eject from the cylinder heads, often stripping the threads in the process. This results in a loud popping noise, misfire, and significant loss of power.
- Solution: Repairing the cylinder head by installing thread inserts or replacing the cylinder head entirely.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.8L Triton V10
- Spark Plug Blowout
- Description/Symptoms: The spark plugs can eject from the cylinder heads, often stripping the threads in the process. This results in a loud popping noise, misfire, and significant loss of power.
- Solution: Repairing the cylinder head by installing thread inserts or replacing the cylinder head entirely.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Leaks/Cracks
- Description/Symptoms: Exhaust manifold bolts can break, leading to exhaust leaks. Cracks can also develop in the manifolds themselves. This results in a ticking noise, reduced fuel economy, and a burning smell.
- Solution: Replacing the exhaust manifold and broken bolts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
7.3L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
- Cam Position Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, rough running, difficulty starting.
- Solution: Replace the cam position sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Glow Plug Relay Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, excessive white smoke on startup.
- Solution: Replacing the glow plug relay.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4R100 4-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting between gears, transmission slipping, or failure to engage gears.
- Solution: Possible solutions range from a simple fluid change and filter replacement to valve body repair or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $3,500+ (rebuild/replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, especially under load, stalling when coming to a stop.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Leaf Spring Sag/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, poor ride quality, reduced load-carrying capacity.
- Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+ (for both sides)
- Recalls: None Found
- Ball Joint Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Popping or clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacing the ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $800+ (per side)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Battery light on, dimming headlights, slow cranking, eventually leading to a no-start condition.
- Solution: Replacing the alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- GEM (Generic Electronic Module) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems such as power windows not working, wipers malfunctioning, or issues with the door locks.
- Solution: Replacing or reprogramming the GEM.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handles Breaking
- Description/Symptoms: Door handles (especially the rear liftgate handle) breaking, making it difficult or impossible to open the doors.
- Solution: Replacing the door handle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (per handle)
- Recalls: None Found
- Rust (Body Panels, Undercarriage)
- Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on body panels, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage. Can lead to structural damage if left unchecked.
- Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, or rustproofing treatments.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on severity)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents, with one side blowing hot and the other cold. Clicking noise from behind the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing the blend door actuator(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Instrument Cluster Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning, dim or flickering display, complete instrument cluster failure.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2000 Ford Excursion, while a capable and spacious vehicle, is prone to certain issues due to its age and the wear and tear associated with heavy-duty use. Engine problems such as spark plug blowouts and glow plug relay failures can be costly to repair, and transmission issues can range from minor inconveniences to major overhauls. Suspension components like leaf springs and ball joints are also common points of failure. Electrical problems, particularly with the GEM, can be frustrating and difficult to diagnose. Exterior rust and broken door handles are also common concerns. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly, as repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand depending on the severity.