1997 Ford Expedition problems
The Ford Expedition is a full-size three-row SUV, manufactured by Ford. Introduced for the 1997 model year as the successor of the Ford Bronco, the Expedition was the first full-size Ford SUV sold with a four-door body. For its entire production life, the Ford Expedition has been derived from the corresponding generation of the Ford F-150 in production, sharing some body and mechanical components. The fourth-generation Ford Expedition began production for the 2018 model year. Similar to the configuration of the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, the Ford Expedition is sold in regular and extended lengths (the Ford Expedition EL/Max); sold since 2007, the latter functionally serves as the replacement for the Ford Excursion.
Since 1997, the Lincoln division has marketed the Ford Expedition as the Lincoln Navigator, the first full-size SUV sold by a luxury auto brand in North America (the Expedition was never sold as a Mercury). The third Ford vehicle to use the Expedition nameplate, the full-size SUV follows a 1992 F-150 Eddie Bauer concept vehicle and a 1995 trim level package on the two-door Ford Explorer Sport.
Prior to 2009, the Ford Expedition was assembled at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan (previously home to the Ford Bronco). After 2009, the Ford Expedition was moved to the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky.
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Common 1997 Ford Expedition problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1997 Ford Expedition, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Problems: The engine has been a source of complaints, with issues such as the engine shutting off after the fail-safe engine light appears in 2006 Ford Expeditions. This problem typically occurs around 82,000 miles and can cost an average of $700 to repair.
- Transmission Failure: Reports indicate transmission failures in 2004 Ford Expeditions, occurring around 76,000 miles and costing an average of $2700 to fix.
- Bubbling Paint: Some owners have faced bubbling paint issues in 2005 Ford Expeditions, typically occurring around 54,000 miles and costing an average of $4200 to address.
- Suspension Concerns: Suspension problems have been noted, with 12% of reported issues falling under this category. This can lead to handling and ride quality issues.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical issues, accounting for 28% of reported problems, can manifest in various ways, impacting the vehicle's overall functionality and safety.
- Trim and Body: Owners have reported problems related to the trim and body of the vehicle, which can affect the aesthetics and structural integrity of the Expedition.
These common problems highlight various areas of concern for owners of the 1997 Ford Expedition. Addressing these issues promptly and with the help of a qualified mechanic can help maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity.
What is a common problem with Ford Expedition?
Commonly reported Expedition problems: electrical issues, the blower motor only working on high, spark plug ejection, ignition coil failure, air suspension failure, EGR sensor issues, and more.
What was the worst year for the Expedition?
What years are the Ford Expedition to avoid? 2007, 2008, 2011, and 2012 are undeniably the worst Ford Expedition years you should avoid.
What is the best year of the Ford Expedition?
Buy: 2002 Ford Expedition
The most reliable year of Ford Expedition in the first generation is the 2002 model year. According to CarComplaints, the 2002 Expedition has received only 400+ complaints and four recalls – a stark improvement over the previous models.
Is the Ford Expedition a reliable car?
The 2024 Ford Expedition has a predicted reliability score of 74 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What is a common problem with Ford Expedition?
Commonly reported Expedition problems: electrical issues, the blower motor only working on high, spark plug ejection, ignition coil failure, air suspension failure, EGR sensor issues, and more.
Are older Ford Expeditions reliable?
The Ford Expedition, specifically the older models, is notorious for giving people a lot of issues. In fact, based on customer reviews, many people experience many of the same issues, regardless of the model or year.
What is the best year of the Ford Expedition?
2022 Ford Expedition
As one of the most recent editions to the lineup, the 2022 version is one of the best years for a used Ford Expedition. The 2022 Ford Expedition comes standard with an updated infotainment system, a 12-inch touchscreen equipped with SYNC® 4 technology, and a second-row three-seat bench.
Do Ford Expeditions have transmission problems?
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.
1997 Ford Expedition car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Expedition problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Ford Expedition vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Ford Expedition
The NHTSA has received 906 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Ford Expedition. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Ford Expedition vehicles.
STEERING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-28
- VIN: 1FMFU18L6VL
- Components: STEERING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 1997 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the steering wheel became loosened while making a left turn. The contact stated that the "Check Suspension" and "Check ABS" messages were displayed on the instrument panel along with the oil, brake, and battery warning lights being illuminated. The contact called a local dealer and was informed that the part needed to repair the steering wheel was no longer in stock. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and the contact was provided the same information as from the dealer. The contact also stated that moisture had begun to leak from the sunroof. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 171,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-23
- VIN: 1FMEU1765VL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: Vehicle will speed up or slow down in certain times for certain speeds without notice smell of smok and looked hurt wiring
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-16
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMEU1762VL
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE COMING TO A STOP AND THE INTERSECTION OF LONGSTREET AND HIGHWAY 82. I PRESSED ON THE BRAKE PEDDLE AND THE BRAKES LOCKED UP AND I SLED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION INTO A DITCH. I WAS TRAVELING THE SPEED LIMIT OF 50 MPH. THE PASSENGER AIR BAG DEPLOYED BUT THE DRIVERS DID NOT DEPLOY. I HAVE A BROKEN NOSE FROM HITTING STEERING WHEEL. SEAT BELTS WERE ON FRONT SEAT DRIVER AND PASSENGER.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-12
- VIN: 1FMEU17L0VL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY 1997 FORD EXPEDITION XLT BEIGE IN COLOR SINCE I HAVE OWN THIS VEHICLE I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE FIVE (5) SPARK PLUGS AND COIL FOR THEY HAVE BLOWN OUT OF THE CYLINDER AND I HAVE HAD TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED INTO A REPAIR FACILITY WHICH HAVE BEEN COSTLY TO ME. THE ENGINE ON THIS VEHICLE IS A 5.4. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AT THE TIME OF THE PROBLEM ON THE HIGHWAY
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-31
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMFU18L8VL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING IS EXTREMELY OVERACTIVE AND SEEMS TWITCHING, MEANING AT LOW SPEED OR AT HIGH RATE OF TRAVEL VERY SLIGHT MOVEMENTS OF THE STEERING WHEEL CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO MOVE SUDDENLY, AND UNCONTROLLABLY, PREVIOUS OWNER WENT OFF HIGHWAY AND FELT UNSAFE IN VEHICLE BECAUSE OF THIS ISSUE. I IMAGINE THIS HAS TO DO WITH THE VARIABLE ASSIST POWER STEERING BUT CANNOT FIND ANY DIAGNOSTIC AIDE IN RESOLUTION OF ISSUE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-05
- VIN: 1FMEU17L9VL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN EXAMINING MY VEHICLE WHICH SUPPOSEDLY HAD A RECALL ON THE CRUISE CONTROL SENSOR ON BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER, FOUND THAT FORD ONLY ADDED A FUSABLE LINK TO PREVENT FIRE AS THE SENSOR MAY NOT HAVE BEEN LEAKING AT THE TIME. IT HAS SINCE LEAKED AND THE ADDED BIT OF WIRE WITH THE BLUE TAG HAS BLOWN IT'S FUSES BUT I BELIEVE THE CRUISE CONTROL HAS NOW DISABLED MY HORN DURRING OPERATION. I AM REQUESTING MY VEHICLE BE SERVICED PROPERLY AS THE RECALL WAS NOT DONE CORRECTLY TO MY UNDERSTANDING. I WAS LOOKING ONLINE AND JUST REALIZED THIS SO I LOOKED AT MY VEHICLE AND SAW IT IS THE OLD DESIGN.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-01
- VIN: 1FMEU1761VL
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL, MY STEERING IS BAD LIKE IM FISHTAILING ON THE FREEWAY, WHEN I HIT A BUMP IT PULLS TO ONE SIDE. THERES ALOT OF PLAY IN THE STEERING WHEEL.
STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-14
- VIN: 1FMFU18L8VL
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: THE STEERING IS VERY LOOSE AND HARD TO KEEP ON ROAD, I CALLED FORD HEADQUARTERS TO SEE IF IT WAS UNDER RECALL AND THEY SAID NOT MY VIN WAS INCLUDED. I ALSO HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THE O/D LIGHT BLINKING. MY TRANSMISSION SHIFT GREAT UNTIL THE LIGHT STARTS BLINKING.I THINK IT IS A BAD CRUISE CONTROL SENSOR. I READ WHERE A LOT OF THOSE SHORTED OUT AND STARTED FIRES.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-22
- VIN: 1FMEU17L8VL
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, AS SOON AS I GO FASTER THAN 55MPH THE VEHICLE DOWN BY THE WHEELS, STARTS SHAKING. I CAN FEEL IT IN THE STEERING WHEEL. I SUSPECT IT'S THE BALL JOINTS BUT NOT SURE. IT ALSO WOBBLES WHEN TURNING GOING AS SLOW AS 25 MPH.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-04
- VIN: 1FMEU17L8VL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: COIL PACK, SPARK PLUG ISSUE. MY EXPEDITION SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS "MISSING". NOT SURE WHEN I 1ST HEARD IT. I TOOK IT IN FOR SOME MAINTENANCE- OIL CHANGE, CHANGE SPARK PLUGS, BASIC TUNE UP. BUT I WAS TOLD BY THE SHOP THAT THE COIL PACK/SPARK PLUGS WERE DEFECTIVE & IF I ATTENPTED TO CHANGE THE PLUGS & COULD THAT THERE IS A GOOD CHANCE IT WILL BLOW THE HEAD. THE SHOP REFUSED TO CHANGE THE PLUGS N COILS. STATING THAT THEY WILL NOT ATTEMPT IT, BEING AS THEY DO NOT WANT TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE HEAD. SO, I HAVE TO LIVE WITH A DEFECTIVE ENGINE. FORD NEEDS TO OWN UP TO THE PROBLEM. IF THIS BLOWS WHILE I DRIVE IT & ANYONE GETS INJURED AS A RESULT, I WILL SUE FORD. THE 97 EXPEDITION IS A GREAT SUV. BUT I CAN'T BELIEVE THE COIL PACK/SPARK PLUG ISSUE HAS NOT BEEN INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS! THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS & DANGEROUS & EXPENSIVE PROBLEM. SHAME ON YOU, FORD.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-28
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE STEERING ON THE VEHICLE IS LOOSE AND WONDERS ALL OVER THE ROAD CONTACTED A MECHANIC AND HE TOLD ME WHERE STEERING SHAFT SLIDES TOGETHER IS REALLY LOOS AND STEERING SHAFT NEEDS REPLACED
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-19
- VIN: 1FMEU1760VL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I KNOW FOR A FACT THERE WAS A MASSIVE RECALL ON THE MODEL. THE CRUISE CONTROL MALFUNCTIONS AND CATCHES ON FIRE WHEN THE KEY IS NOT IN THE IGNITION. MOST OF THE F-150 ENGINE FIRES WERE TRACED BACK TO A FAULTY CRUISE CONTROL. THE VEHICLES USUALLY BURNED WHEN THE VEHICLE HAS 160-180,000 MILES ON THE SPEEDOMETER. MY 2000 FORD EXPEDITION BURNED CAUGHT MY HOME ON FIRE AND NEARLY KILLED THREE PEOPLE AND SEVERAL PETS. THE VEHICLE IN QUESTION BELONGS TO A GOOD FRIEND. THEY MENTIONED IN PASSING THAT THE CRUISE CONTROL IS MALFUNCTIONING. THIS VEHICLE IS EXHIBITING THE EXACT SAME SYMPTOMS THAT MY EXPEDITION DID JUST BEFORE IT CAUGHT FIRE. I UNPLUGGED MY FRIENDS EXPEDITION CRUISE CONTROL. I AM SHOCKED THIS VEHICLE IS NO LONGER ON THE RECALL LIST. IF THIS VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED DURING THE RECALL IT WOULD NOT BE MALFUNCTIONING NOW.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-12
- VIN: 1FMFU18LXVL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: STARTED VEHICLE AND IMMEDIATELY HEARD LOUD NOISE UNDER HOOD. FOUND SPARK PLUG HAD BLOWN OUT OF HEAD. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AT TIME, BUT HAD BEEN DRIVEN WITHOUT PROBLEM JUST A COUPLE OF HOURS EARLIER.
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-13
- VIN: 1FMEU18W4VL
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: MY BRAKE WENT TO THE FLOOR WHEN I STARTED TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE LAST WEEK. I WAS GOING TO AVE MY BAKES REPLACED TODAY WHEN THE MECHANIC NOTICED THAT THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS WERE VERY RUSTED IT HAS PIECES BREAKING OFF AND THERE IS ACTUALLY A HOLE IN THE REAR DRIVER SIDE LOWER CONTROL ARM. THE METAL BRAKE LINES IS ALSO RUSTED IN TWO. HE LOOKED AT MY 1998 EXPIDITION AND THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS ON THE BACK OF IT ARE ALSO RUSTED OUT. HE SAIDIDN'T I SHOULD NOT DRIVE EITHER OF THEM UNTIL THEY ARE REPLACED. I'M WONDERING IF THERE IS A RECALL ON THESE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-20
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE DRIVING AT 10 MPH, AN ABNORMAL SOUND WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE. THE FAILURE RECURRED CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 96V252000 (SUSPENSION). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 220,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-01
- VIN: 1FMFU18L6VL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO REMAIN IN POSITION. THE CONTACT HAD TO STEER THE VEHICLE IN EXCESS TO KEEP THE VEHICLE IN POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING SHAFT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS AWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V196000 (STEERING), BUT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-11
- VIN: 1FMEU17VLC2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MISCELLANEOUS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS CAUSED BY WATER LEAKING FROM DRIVER'S SIDE WINDSHIELD INTO THE FUSE BOX CAUSING, WINDSHIELD WIPERS TO QUIT. DOOR LOCK WON'T WORK, RADIO QUIT. PROBLEM IS NEVER THE SAME, DEPENDS ON WHERE THE WATER LEAK OCCURS. VERY SCARY AND DANGEROUS WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT IN THE RAIN.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-10
- VIN: 1FMEU18W5VL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY AT 35 MPH, THERE WAS A KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEEL AND NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL WAS BECOMING LOOSE. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT WAS LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V196000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 134,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-15
- VIN: 1FMFU18L3VL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT BOUGHT THE VEHICLE WITH A KNOWN SHIFT CABLE ASSEMBLY FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE DETAILS OF THE REPAIR WAS UNKNOWN. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 097V171000 (POWER TRAIN). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 220,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-02
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: IN DRIVEWAY UPON DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, TO PUT CAR IN GEAR, BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. NO BRAKES AT ALL. NO WARNING. NO LIGHTS INDICATING FAILURE AHEAD OF TIME. BOTH BRAKE LINES THAT GO FROM MASTER CYL, TO ABS UNIT RUSTED THROUGH. UPON FOR DEALER REPLACING BOTH LINES ON A TEST DRIVE FRT DRIVERSIDE BRAKE LINE FAILED DUE TO RUST. COST $976 FOR THOSE RUSTED OUT LINES AND STILL 3 ORE BADLY RUSTED, TO GO. HARDLY SAFE WITH SEVERELY RUSTED LINES. WHEN THOSE TWO LINES BURST,(AT SAME TIME) NO BACKUP BRAKE SYSTEM IN AFFECT.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-01
- VIN: 1FMEU18W6VL
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: GENERAL AMERI-TRAC 255/70/R16 HAD A COMPLETE TREAD SEPARATION FROM MAIN TIRE. IT BEGAN WHEN I NOTICED SUDDEN AND VIOLENT VIBRATION COMING FROM THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE WHILE DRIVING AT 60MPH ON HIGHWAY 82 IN MONTANA. I IMMEDIATELY SLOWED DOWN, PULLED OVER AND INSPECTED THE TIRE TO FIND CHUNKS OF RUBBER FALLING OUT AND TREAD BULGING & WARPED. THIS TIRE (PROPER MOUNTED & BALANCED) HAS APPX 75% TREAD. I SLOWLY DROVE HOME AND PARKED THE VEHICLE. THE FOLLOWING DAY I WAS GOING TO REPLACE IT WITH THE SPARE. WHEN I WENT OUT THE NEXT MORNING THE TIRE HAD COMPLETELY GONE FLAT. A CLOSER LOOK REVEALED OVER NIGHT THE TIRE HAD EXPLODED WITH THE TREAD COMPLETELY SEPARATING FROM THE TIRE AROUND 1/5 OF ITS CIRCUMFERENCE. THE STEEL BELTS STILL ATTACHED TO THE LIFTED PART OF THE TREAD. I WAS LUCKY THIS DIDN'T EXPLODE WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY.. AS GOING 60MPH ON A TWO LANE HIGHWAY (ONE LANE EACH WAY) THAT IS HEAVILY USED BY LOGGING TRUCKS GOING 70+MPH COULD HAVE LEAD TO A DEVASTATING AND TRAGIC ACCIDENT. AN INCIDENT OF THIS NATURE ON ICY ROADS IN WINTER WOULD HAVE ONLY INCREASED THE LIKELY-HOOD OF A FATALITY. I'M NOT SURE IF THIS TIRE IS AN ISOLATED DEFECTIVE ITEM OR IF ALL THE 255/70 R16 AMERI-TRAC TIRES ARE BAD, BUT I CERTAINLY WANT THIS DEFECTIVE TIRE REPLACED BY GENERAL AS NO TIRE OF THIS POOR OF QUALITY SHOULD LEGALLY BE ON THE ROAD. IT WOULD BE LIKE ALLOWING BRAKE MANUFACTURERS TO SELL BRAKES SYSTEMS THAT ARE KNOWN TO FAIL OR ALLOWING STEERING WHEEL MANUFACTURERS TO SELL STEERING WHEELS THAT ARE KNOWN TO FALL OFF WHILE DRIVING. IF HEAVY PENALTIES AND FINES WERE GIVEN TO THESE COMPANIES (THAT HAVE WEAK INSPECTION PROCEDURES) FOR EACH DEFECTIVE INCIDENT, MAYBE THEY WOULD NOT ALLOW HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF THESE TIRES TO BE SOLD... JUST BECAUSE THEY WISH TO CUT COSTS ON QUALITY CONTROL ISSUES AND HELP THEIR BOTTOM LINE PROFITS. THE AMERICAN PUBLIC AND ESPECIALLY FAMILIES WITH SMALL CHILDREN DESERVE BETTER, SAFER AND HIGHER STANDARDS IN THIS INDUSTRY.
STEERING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-13
- VIN: 1FMFU18L6VL
- Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE STEERING COLUMN NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND NOTICED CORROSION UNDERNEATH THE UNDERCARRIAGE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 63,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-31
- VIN: 1FMEU1767VL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT, THE TIRES TURNED TO THE RIGHT WITHOUT WARNING. WHILE DRIVING OVER A SPEED BUMP, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 192,000.
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-30
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMEU17L7VL
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WOULD THEN NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION FROM ONE OF THE DRIVE GEAR POSITIONS INTO THE PARK POSITION EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT SELECTOR WOULD INDICATE "PARK. HAVE ACCIDENT, THE CAR ROLL OVER TO ANOTHER CAR, I CAN"T PARK DOWN HILL IS TO DANGERS, IS TOT SAFETY . *TR
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-30
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMEU17L7VL
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WOULD THEN NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION FROM ONE OF THE DRIVE GEAR POSITIONS INTO THE PARK POSITION EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT SELECTOR WOULD INDICATE "PARK. HAVE ACCIDENT, THE CAR ROLL OVER TO ANOTHER CAR, I CAN"T PARK DOWN HILL IS TO DANGERS, IS NOT SAFETY . *TR
1997 Ford Expedition recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the 1997 Ford Expedition.
- Manufacturer: MAXZONE AUTO PARTS CORPORATION
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: CERTAIN MAXZONE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 331-1129L-ASN AND 331-1129R-ASN, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: MAXZONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAXZONE AT 909-822-3288.
- Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
- Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
- Consequence: A FIRE AT THE SWITCH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: BY LETTER DATED SEPTEMBER 12, 2005, OWNERS WERE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERS TO HAVE THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH DISCONNECTED. OWNERS WHO HAVE HAD THEIR SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATED ARE BEING NOTIFIED THAT PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE AND ADVISED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO RECONNECT THE SPEED CONTROL BEGINNING IN FEBRUARY 2006. OWNERS WHO DID NOT HAVE THEIR SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATED ARE BEING NOTIFIED TO HAVE THEIR SYSTEM REMEDIED BEGINNING IN FEBRUARY 2006. OWNERS ARE URGED TO AVAIL THEMSELVES OF THE FREE DISCONNECT SERVICE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF THE SIGNIFICANT RISK OF FIRE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. (NOTE: ALSO SEE RECALLS 05V017 AND 06V286)
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STEERING:GEAR BOX:SHAFT SECTOR
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, IF THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT YOKE SEPARATES FROM THE STEERING GEAR INPUT SHAFT, THE STEERING SYSTEM BECOMES DISCONNECTED.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT YOKE TO DETERMINE IF THE YOKE IS FULLY SEATED ON THE STEERING GEAR INPUT SHAFT. IF THE YOKE IS FULLY SEATED NO SERVICE IS REQUIRED. IF THE YOKE IS NOT FULLY SEATED AND BOLT GROOVE AND SPLINE IS VISIBLE, THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT AND BOLT WILL BE REPLACED AS WELL AS THE BOLT AT THE STEERING COLUMN CONNECTION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MAY 30, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS, LIGHT PICKUP TRUCKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. OFF LEASE CANADIAN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS WHICH MEET CANADIAN REQUIREMENTS AND NOT THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." ACCORDING TO FORD, THE VEHICLES WERE IMPORTED INTO THE U.S. ERRONEOUSLY.
- Consequence: THE LIGHT GIVEN OFF FROM THE DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS IS BRIGHTER THAN ALLOWED BY U.S. STANDARDS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL BE ADVISED TO DEACTIVATE THE RUNNING LIGHT FUNCTION AND TO COMPLETE ANY OUTSTANDING SAFETY RECALLS ON THESE VEHICLES.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: TRAILER HITCHES
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES. THE TRAILER HITCH ASSEMBLY TO THE FRAME ATTACHING BOLTS COULD LOSE THE CLAMP LOAD.
- Consequence: THE TRAILER HITCH COULD THEN SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TRAILER HITCH MOUNTING BOLTS AND NUT PLATES.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES AND LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. THE LUG NUTS ON THESE VEHICLES MAY NOT CREATE SUFFICIENT CLAMP LOAD ALLOWING WHEEL MOVEMENT IN RELATION TO THE HUB/ROTOR MOUNTING SURFACE.
- Consequence: THIS CAN RESULT IN THE LOOSENING OF LUG NUTS, STUD FATIGUE FAILURE, AND THE POTENTIAL FOR A WHEEL SEPARATION FROM THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS OF THESE VEHICLES WILL BE RECEIVING TWO NOTIFICATIONS. THE FIRST NOTIFICATION, WHICH BEGAN IN MAY 1998, WILL PROVIDE AN INTERIM REPAIR PROCEDURE UNTIL PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE. THIS INTERIM PROCEDURE CAN BE COMPLETED BY OWNERS OR THEIR DEALERS. IT SPECIFIES THAT THE LUG NUT TORQUE MUST BE VERIFIED TO BE 100 LBS. THEN THE LUG NUTS NEED TO BE TIGHTENED AN ADDITIONAL 1/8 TO 1/4 TURN MORE. THERE WILL BE A SECOND OWNER NOTIFICATION, WHICH IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN JULY 20, 1998, UNDER WHICH DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WHEEL STUDS AND REPLACE THE WHEEL LUG NUTS.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS AND MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE ASSEMBLY WAS NOT FULLY ATTACHED TO THE STEERING COLUMN BRACKET, THE SHIFT CABLE ASSEMBLY CAN COME OUT OF THE BRACKET. THE VEHICLE OPERATOR WOULD THEN NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION FROM ONE OF THE DRIVE GEAR POSITIONS INTO THE PARK POSITION EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT SELECTOR WOULD INDICATE "PARK."
- Consequence: THE CONDITION WOULD NOT ALLOW A DISENGAGEMENT OF THE TRANSMISSION FROM THE PARK POSITION OR AFFECT PROPER NEUTRAL START SWITCH OPERATION. UNINTENDED VEHICLE MOVEMENT COULD OCCUR IF THE PARKING BRAKE WAS NOT SET.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAKE THE PROPER ATTACHMENT OF THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CONTROL CABLE TO THE STEERING COLUMN BRACKET AND ADD A TIE STRAP TO THAT CONNECTION.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: THE REAR AXLE TRACK BAR BRACKET CAN SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME DUE TO MISSING WELDS OR INADEQUATE WELD PENETRATION.
- Consequence: IF BOTH BRACKETS SEPARATE, THE REAR AXLE CAN MOVE LATERALLY UNTIL THE TIRES CONTACT EITHER THE FRAME OR THE WHEELHOUSE RESULTING IN EITHER TIRE DAMAGE OR A SIGNIFICANT REDUCTION IN VEHICLE HANDLING PERFORMANCE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A TRACK BAR BRACKET REINFORCEMENT KIT AND INSPECTION OF THE AXLE TUBES. THE SUSPECT AXLE TUBES DO NOT HAVE A STAMPED DATE CODE ON THE TUBE. AXLES WITHOUT DATE CODES ON THE TUBES WILL BE REPLACED.
Negative 1997 Ford Expedition car reviews
Positive 1997 Ford Expedition car reviews
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I'm so glad I purchased this vehicle back in 1997. It has been an absolute lifesaver in raising my kids. Despite heavy use, it has held up incredibly well. I've even taken it out in 4 wheel drive during snowy New Mexico winters and pulled a boat for tens of thousands of miles in Texas and Oklahoma. It has been my trusty companion for daily kid-hauling and even long distance weekly travel. It only failed me once in 12.5 years, and that was due to a faulty alternator after it had already clocked over 200,000 miles. Overall, this truck has been as reliable as a rock. Major repairs were rare and only related to normal wear and tear items such as the front-end, shocks, and compressor. And it's still going strong at 204,000 miles!
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Great all around vehicle! It has good power, excellent handling, good brakes, and great comfort. Although the gas mileage is less than great, it's not awful. It's a great traveling vehicle with excellent four wheel drive capabilities.
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We've owned this vehicle for over 6 years and it's been a great, dependable ride. The only issues we've had were a new alternator about a year ago and a replacement for the rear differential sensor.
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The Ford Expedition is a true game-changer that revolutionized the full-size SUV market. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride that feels more like a car than a bulky tank. My personal experience with the Expedition has been nothing short of amazing. It still runs and drives like the day I first bought it, and I have never encountered any interior rattles or issues. The only maintenance I have performed is replacing the tires (after 65K miles) and the fluids and filters. The Expedition is a towing powerhouse that can handle any terrain with ease. I am truly impressed with its performance and hope that all my future vehicles perform as well as this one. Kudos to Ford for creating such an exceptional SUV.
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to say that I absolutely love my Expedition. It's such a fun vehicle to drive, and it has so much power!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Ford Expedition problems:
1997 Ford Expedition XLT: Common Problems & Troubleshooting
Apr 2, 2011 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
1997 Ford Expedition Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Problem with your 1997 Ford Expedition? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Ford Expedition.
97 eddie bauer with huge problems | Ford Expedition Forum
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1997 Ford Expedition Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
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Are you having problems with your 1997 Ford Expedition?
Milton Hessel 2025-01-05
We bought our 1997 Expedition XLT 4x4 in 2000 with about 100K miles already on it. I was a bit hesitant at first because the first year Exped had already developed a notorious reliability reputation, but the price was so good I couldn't resist. At the time, it was a good looking truck (and still looks great, even after all these years) and gas was affordable. Well, we've broken 250K miles and have only spent about $2500 in 10 years on actual repairs, not including regular maintenance of course. The small 4.6 L V8, which is underpowered for such a large vehicle, still holds its own and still gets 14+ MPG in mixed driving -- and EVERYTHING still works (all electrical, power, transmission, 4WD, etc)! I must say, I'm thoroughly impressed!
Mike Kutch 2024-11-18
This truck has been a reliable vehicle for over 20 years, withstanding tough weather conditions and providing ample space for gear. Although the fuel economy is not great at 12/15 MPG, the large tank allows for a decent cruising range. Despite experiencing some engine oil leaks and requiring $3,000 in repairs, this truck has proven to be a solid and stable choice. Its durability is evident, as it has continued to perform well even after reaching nearly 200K miles. Overall, this truck is a great choice for those seeking a dependable and long-lasting vehicle.
Gus Klocko 2024-10-12
Hi there! It's great to hear that you've had this truck for 8 years now, and it's been a reliable family and stuff hauler. Although you've had a couple of major problems, such as the transmission being replaced at 100K miles and the injection system on 4 of the 8 cylinders, it's good to know that these issues were resolved. I understand that it has become expensive to use as an everyday commuter, but it's still a great part-time haul around vehicle. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Rusty Kunde 2024-10-07
You've had your Expedition for 3 years now and it's been running smoothly. You bought it used with 67K miles and have driven it up to 140K. You've taken it on long trips from your home in south Louisiana to northern Tennessee and it's even your wife's daily driver to work. Although you've had to replace the shift cable and recently had some emissions problems, overall it's a reliable vehicle.
Jaeden Klocko 2024-09-16
Hi there! I've had this truck for 18 months and unfortunately, each month something else seems to go wrong. Most recently, it was the tie rods, and before that, the air compressor for the air ride. Additionally, the windshield leaked and fried some electronics, which cost me around $1800. I can't help but wonder what will go wrong next, but I'm grateful that we only put less than 200 miles a week on it. Thanks for listening!