2020 Ford Expedition

The 2020 Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive towing capabilities. It offers three engine options: a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 producing 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, a high-output version of the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 producing 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque (available on Platinum models), and the same high-output version of the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 producing 400 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the Expedition’s passenger and cargo space, smooth ride, and powerful engine, but some common complaints include occasional transmission issues, electrical glitches, and concerns about fuel economy.

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6 (375 hp / 400 hp)

• Cam Phaser Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise at startup, rough idling, and potential loss of power. This issue typically affects the variable valve timing system due to faulty cam phasers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cam phasers, timing chain, and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Intrusion into the Engine
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks internally causing white smoke from the exhaust. This issue is specific to the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire long block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic Transmission (10R80)

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or abrupt shifting between gears, particularly at lower speeds. Some owners report a “clunking” sound during gear changes. Hesitation when accelerating or changing gears.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission recalibration, or in more severe cases, replacement of valve body or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (software update), $1,500 - $4,000+ (valve body/rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission feels like it is “slipping” out of gear when accelerating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging or sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. May be caused by worn or failing air suspension components (if equipped), particularly air springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of air springs (if equipped) or standard coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The SYNC infotainment system freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and other features.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $800+ (APIM replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use. Could be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw and repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working or overheating. Possible issues with heating elements or control modules.
  • Solution: Replacement of heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Running Board Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Power running boards failing to extend or retract properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Lubrication of joints, replacement of motor or entire running board assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Ford Expedition, while a capable and comfortable SUV, can suffer from various issues. Engine problems, especially with the 3.5L EcoBoost, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, such as harsh shifting, are also common complaints. Electrical glitches and suspension problems add to the potential maintenance costs. Overall, while many issues can be resolved with software updates or minor repairs, some, such as engine or transmission replacements, can be very expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and carefully inspect the vehicle before purchasing.