2021 Ford Expedition
The 2021 Ford Expedition is a large, body-on-frame SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engine, and towing capabilities. Available trims range from the base XL STX to the luxurious Platinum. Powertrain options include a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine tuned to different power levels, and a 10-speed automatic transmission is standard across the range. The standard 3.5L EcoBoost V6 produces 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, while higher trims offer a version with 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. A High-Output version with 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque was available on the Timberline trim. Owners often praise the Expedition for its comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and strong performance, but some common complaints include issues with the infotainment system, electrical glitches, and occasional engine-related problems.
Engine
3.5L EcoBoost V6 (375 hp, 400 hp, 440 hp)
- Cam Phaser Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle or ticking noise, especially during cold starts. This can lead to rough idling, reduced performance, and potential engine damage if left unresolved. The noise can come and go.
- Solution: Replacement of the cam phasers, timing chain, and related components. This is a complex job requiring specialized tools and expertise.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Engine Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, rough idling, loss of power, and potentially stalling. This can be caused by faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the specific cause of the misfire, followed by replacement of the faulty component (ignition coil, spark plug, fuel injector).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the number of components that need to be replaced
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks under the vehicle or on the engine, low oil level, and potential engine damage if not addressed. Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
- Solution: Identification of the leak source and replacement of the affected gasket or seal.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
10-Speed Automatic (10R80)
- Harsh Shifting/Clunking
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, particularly at lower speeds. Clunking noises can also be heard during gear changes. This can be caused by valve body issues, solenoids, or internal transmission damage.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the specific cause of the shifting issue. This may involve replacing the valve body, solenoids, or performing a transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $6,000+ depending on the severity and extent of the damage.
- Recalls: None Found
- Delayed Engagement
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay when shifting into drive or reverse. This can be accompanied by a hesitation or slipping sensation.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the cause, which may involve checking the transmission fluid level and condition, testing the solenoids, or inspecting the internal components. Repair options range from fluid replacement to valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5,000+ depending on the problem.
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: The engine RPMs increase without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. This can occur during acceleration or when attempting to maintain a constant speed. The transmission may also feel like it is “slipping” between gears.
- Solution: This typically requires a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+ depending on the problem.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Sag (Especially with Towing Package)
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags, especially when towing or carrying heavy loads. This can negatively affect handling, ride quality, and headlight alignment.
- Solution: Upgrading the rear suspension with heavier-duty springs, air springs, or a suspension leveling kit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the solution.
- Recalls: None Found
- Knocking/Clunking Noises from Suspension
- Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noises emanating from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. This can be caused by worn-out sway bar links, ball joints, or bushings.
- Solution: Inspection of the suspension components to identify the source of the noise, followed by replacement of the worn-out parts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the parts that need to be replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing (SYNC 4)
- Description/Symptoms: The SYNC 4 infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes intermittently. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
- Solution: Software updates, hard reset of the system, or replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software update) - $1,200+ (APIM replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use. This can be caused by a parasitic drain from an electrical component or a faulty battery.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the parasitic drain, followed by repair or replacement of the affected component. Testing and potentially replacing the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Running Boards Malfunctioning
- Description/Symptoms: The power running boards may fail to extend or retract properly, or may become stuck in one position. This can be caused by a faulty motor, sensor, or wiring issue.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the cause of the malfunction, followed by repair or replacement of the affected component (motor, sensor, wiring harness).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the component.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Tailgate Issues (Power Liftgate)
- Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate fails to open or close properly, or becomes stuck in one position. This can be caused by a faulty motor, sensor, or latch.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the cause of the malfunction, followed by repair or replacement of the affected component (motor, sensor, latch).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater/Cooler Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters or coolers fail to function properly, or only work intermittently.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the cause of the malfunction, followed by repair or replacement of the affected heating/cooling element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof Issues (Sticking, Leaking)
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof sticks, fails to open or close smoothly, or leaks water into the cabin. This can be caused by a misaligned track, worn-out seals, or a faulty motor.
- Solution: Inspection and cleaning of the sunroof track, replacement of the seals, or repair/replacement of the motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2021 Ford Expedition presents a mixed bag of potential issues. Engine and transmission problems, while not universally experienced, can be costly to repair, especially issues such as cam phaser failure and transmission slipping. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system are a fairly common complaint, although often resolved with software updates. Suspension and exterior issues are less frequent but can still contribute to overall ownership costs. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and thoroughly inspect any used 2021 Expedition before purchase. Addressing smaller issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into more expensive repairs.