2001 Ford Expedition
The 2001 Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV known for its spaciousness, towing capacity, and comfortable ride. It was available with two engine options: a 4.6L Triton V8 producing around 232 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.4L Triton V8 producing around 260 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4R70W four-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the Expedition’s ability to haul large families and cargo, but common complaints include relatively poor fuel economy, age-related mechanical issues, and the vehicle’s large size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
Engine
4.6L Triton V8
- Spark Plug Blowout
- Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can eject from the cylinder head due to insufficient thread engagement. This often results in a loud popping noise, misfire, and potential damage to the cylinder head.
- Solution: Repairing the threads in the cylinder head using a thread repair insert kit (e.g., Time-Sert or Heli-Coil). In severe cases, the cylinder head may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on the repair method and if the cylinder head needs to be replaced)
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Cracks
- Description/Symptoms: The plastic intake manifold is prone to cracking, especially around the coolant crossover passages. This can cause coolant leaks, overheating, and rough running.
- Solution: Replacing the intake manifold with an updated design or a metal aftermarket option.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
5.4L Triton V8
- Spark Plug Blowout
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4.6L, spark plugs can eject from the cylinder head. This often results in a loud popping noise, misfire, and potential damage to the cylinder head.
- Solution: Repairing the threads in the cylinder head using a thread repair insert kit (e.g., Time-Sert or Heli-Coil). In severe cases, the cylinder head may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on the repair method and if the cylinder head needs to be replaced)
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Cracks
- Description/Symptoms: The plastic intake manifold is prone to cracking, especially around the coolant crossover passages. This can cause coolant leaks, overheating, and rough running.
- Solution: Replacing the intake manifold with an updated design or a metal aftermarket option.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
- Failed Ignition Coil Packs
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, and check engine light illumination. Often caused by heat and age.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil pack(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per coil (parts and labor)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4R70W 4-Speed Automatic
- Slipping/Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to engage.
- Solution: In many cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter change can help. More severe cases may require a valve body rebuild or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid/filter) to $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replace)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, especially when accelerating. Can also cause stalling at low speeds.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags, the air compressor runs constantly or not at all, and ride quality is poor.
- Solution: Replacing the air springs, air compressor, and/or ride height sensors. Conversion to coil springs is also an option.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the component(s) that need replacing and whether converting to coil springs)
- Recalls: None Found
- Ball Joint Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Front end clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and loose steering.
- Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent or no hot/cold air from the vents. Clicking noises behind the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty blend door actuator(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (depending on location and labor)
- Recalls: None Found
- Window Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window fails to go up or down, or moves slowly.
- Solution: Replacing the window motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Lower Body Panels
- Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on rocker panels, lower doors, and around wheel wells.
- Solution: Cutting out the rust and welding in new metal, or replacing entire panels.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the extent of the rust)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Cracked Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: The dashboard develops cracks, especially in hotter climates.
- Solution: Replacing the dashboard or installing a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the solution)
- Recalls: None Found
- Broken Door Handles
- Description/Symptoms: Interior door handles break, making it difficult to open the doors from the inside.
- Solution: Replacing the broken door handle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
- Recalls: None Found
Summary The 2001 Ford Expedition, while a capable and spacious SUV, is prone to several age-related issues. Engine problems such as spark plug blowout and intake manifold cracks are common, and transmission issues can range from minor slipping to complete failure. Suspension issues, particularly with the air suspension system, can also be costly to repair. Electrical and interior problems, while less severe, can still be a nuisance. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and budget accordingly for potential repairs. Severity ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, and costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.