Ford Expedition Transmission Problems


in Problems
Black Ford Expedition

Ford Expedition by RL GNZLZ - CC-BY-SA-4.0

The Ford Expedition is a full-size three-row SUV, the successor of the older Ford Bronco and the first full-size Ford SUV with a four-door body. Before investing in a new or used version of the Ford Expedition, it’s critical to consider components like the vital transmission. You might wonder - are there any Ford Expedition transmission problems to consider?

If you’re interested in learning more about the issues with the transmission in the Ford Expedition, you’re in the right place. The more you know about the issues in the system, the easier it will be to determine if it’s ideal for your driving needs. Read on to learn more about the errors with the Ford Expedition transmission, the cost of repairs, and more.

Quick Answer: 1999, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2011

According to sites like carcomplaints.com, the worst years for the Ford Expedition transmission were the 1999, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2011 selections. Other models were far more secure in these areas.

Which Years of the Ford Expedition Have the Most Transmission Troubles?

Overall, the worst year for the Ford Expedition’s transmission is the selection from 2004. The Ford Expedition’s transmission troubles here included complete transmission failure, clunking while going into reverse, and more.

By far, the most common issue reported was transmission failure. This error is also the most expensive to fix if it requires a complete replacement.


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Ford Expedition Years With the Least Reliable Transmissions

The 2004 Expedition was the worst for the transmission, but it isn’t the only year you should be cautious around. The 1999, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2006, and 2011 models also lag in this category. 

Within these six years, a few common transmission issues include erratic shifting, transmission slipping and jerking, transmission failure, and more. Several tiny transmission errors tended to pop up, raising frustrating expenses for drivers.

Do Ford Expeditions Have More Trouble Than Other Similar Models?

There are many reported transmission issues in the Ford Expedition. When compared to other similar vehicles, they fall in the middle of the pack. They aren’t the worst, but nowhere near the best around.

Some years of the Ford Expedition are more prone to faults in the transmission than others. For the best experience, avoid 1999, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2011 versions.

What Is The Average Cost To Repair the Most Common Ford Expedition Transmission Problems?

Transmissions are one of the most expensive components on a car to work with. According to getjerry.com, a Ford Expedition transmission will cost $3,000-$5,000 to replace, with smaller tweaks costing less.

No matter what vehicle you own, transmission repairs are not a cheap endeavor. Thus, it’s valuable to invest in a new or used vehicle with an excellent transmission history.

Signs Your Ford Expedition Has Transmission Problems

Be on the lookout for transmission faults in your Ford Expedition. There are typically clear signs something is afoot.

According to performanceforddealer.com, here are some indications of a transmission fault:

  • Sluggish performance
  • Grinding and squealing noises
  • Strange burning smell
  • Vehicle shifting erratically at random moments
  • Transmission fluid leak

These all point to something wrong deep inside your Ford Expedition.

Keep an eye out for these, especially if you own one of the worst transmission years for the Ford Expedition. If you see one, take the car in as soon as possible.


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How To Avoid A Used Ford Expedition With Transmission Problems

If you want to keep away from a used Ford Expedition with transmission errors, take it on a test drive before buying it. Usually, a test drive will reveal errors with the transmission system if you know what you’re looking for relating to the noise and driving ability.

Another excellent method is to take your Ford Expedition to a trusted professional mechanic. They will look at the transmission and see if there are any underlying faults a driving test would have missed, leading to potential failure in the future. These techniques are best to see if the Ford Expedition is worth the money.

Should You Buy A Used Ford Expedition?

Although there are some decent years for the Ford Expedition, it’s far from the most reliable vehicle on the market. However, the three-row SUV design can be appealing. Thus, if you stick with the best years of the machine, it’s worth the money and should serve you well in the years to come.

Always research the worst years of the Ford Expedition before heading in to buy one. If you buy one of the worst years, you’ll have expensive repairs and potential breakdowns more than is desirable for any car owner.

Which Years of Ford Expeditions Are Safe To Buy Used?

There are many Ford Expedition years you’re better off avoiding. However, some offer a more reliable driving experience and solid transmissions, ensuring you’re able to stretch your dollar as far as it can go.

  • 2019 Ford Expedition
  • 2020 Ford Expedition
  • 2018 Ford Expedition
  • 2012 Ford Expedition
  • 2014 Ford Expedition
  • 2009 Ford Expedition
  • 2013 Ford Expedition

Ford Expedition Model Years to Avoid

Of course, where there are good years there are also some with serious Ford Expedition transmission problems and more. Keep away from these to make the most of every dollar.

  • 2004 Ford Expedition
  • 2006 Ford Expedition
  • 2003 Ford Expedition
  • 2005 Ford Expedition
  • 1999 Ford Expedition
  • 2000 Ford Expedition
  • 2011 Ford Expedition

Ford Expedition Problems: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my Ford Expedition with transmission problems?

Although it’s possible to drive your Ford Expedition if it’s experiencing issues, it’s not the best idea. Pushing your Expedition forward with errors in the transmission system could lead to injury or push your car into even worse breakdowns and more Ford Expedition transmission problems.

What should I do if I suspect a transmission issue in my Ford Expedition?

If you think you have an error in your Ford Expedition’s transmission, take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic as soon as possible. They will examine the car and diagnose it immediately, caring for the fault before it becomes far more severe.


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