2017 Ford Expedition

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2017 Ford Expedition, separated by category and engine/transmission configuration.

The 2017 Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engine, and towing capacity. The most common engine option is the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, which produces 365 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Some drivers find the vehicle to be comfortable and capable, particularly for long trips and hauling families and cargo. Common dislikes include its large size making it difficult to park, and lower gas mileage compared to more modern vehicles. It is also known to have some reliability concerns, as listed in the report below. The 2017 Expedition came with only one engine option, but was available in a rear wheel drive or four wheel drive drivetrain. The only transmission option offered on the 2017 Expedition was the 6R80 6-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. Can be caused by oil starvation or bearing failure within the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger. Ensure proper oil changes and maintenance to prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Check engine light with codes related to timing. Worn timing chain guides or a stretched timing chain are common causes.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and potentially the phasers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting after fueling, rough idling, check engine light with codes related to the evaporative emissions system.
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6R80 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts between gears, especially 1-2 and 2-3. Transmission slipping or failure to engage gears. Can be caused by worn valve body components, worn clutches, or contaminated transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the issue persists, a valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush $200 - $400, Valve body replacement $800 - $1500, Transmission rebuild/replacement $3000 - $6000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, air compressor running constantly, warning lights on the dashboard. Leaks in the air springs or failure of the air compressor are common causes.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air spring(s) or air compressor. Check for leaks in the air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air spring replacement $500 - $1000 per spring, Air compressor replacement $600 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncing or unstable ride, especially when loaded or towing. Leaking shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 for both shocks
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. Can be caused by a faulty liftgate motor, struts, or latch mechanism.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty component (motor, struts, or latch).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sync System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors.
  • Solution: Attempt a system reset. Update the Sync software to the latest version. If problems persist, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: APIM Replacement $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Running Board Motor Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Running boards not extending or retracting properly, making clicking or grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the running board motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin during rain or car washes, water stains on the headliner. Clogged sunroof drain tubes are a common cause.
  • Solution: Clean the sunroof drain tubes. Check the sunroof seal and replace if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Drain cleaning $50 - $150, Seal Replacement $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Ford Expedition, while offering a spacious and capable driving experience, exhibits several common issues. Engine problems, particularly related to the 3.5L EcoBoost, such as turbocharger and timing chain issues, can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, while not as frequent, can also lead to expensive repairs. Other issues such as air suspension failures, power liftgate malfunctions, and electrical gremlins add to the potential ownership costs. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.