1998 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 1998 Ford Expedition problems
The 1998 Ford Expedition, like many vehicles of its time, has a range of common problems that have been reported by owners. These issues span across various components of the vehicle, including the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems.
- Transmission: Transmission failure is a common problem in the 2004 Ford Expedition, with the average mileage at which the problem occurs being 76,000 miles, and the average cost to fix the issue being $2700.
- Suspension: Suspension issues have been reported in the 1998 Ford Expedition, with the average distribution of costs for repairs ranging between $100 and $499.
- Electrical: Electrical problems, including issues with the multi-function switch, have been reported in the 1998 Ford Expedition.
- Cruise Control: Cruise control issues have been reported in the 1998 Ford Expedition, along with problems with lug nuts, trailer hitches, and shift cables.
- Cooling System: Coolant leaks and issues with the cylinder head have been reported in the 1998 Ford Expedition, which may result from the use of 100% coolant concentration or the failure of the coolant/cylinder head.
- Maintenance and Repair Expenses: The 1998 Ford Expedition has reported maintenance and repair expenses of approximately $1,000 per year, with various components requiring replacement, such as the alternator, battery, O2 sensors, PCV valve, and tires.
- Recalls: The NHTSA has reported recalls for the 1998 Ford Expedition, which can be searched by Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to determine if a specific vehicle is affected.
In summary, the 1998 Ford Expedition has a range of common problems that have been reported by owners, including engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, cruise control, cooling system, maintenance and repair expenses, and recalls. These issues can affect the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall value, and should be considered when purchasing or maintaining a 1998 Ford Expedition.
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.
How many miles can a 98 Ford Expedition last?
The engine in a Ford Expedition should be able to last between 150,000 and 300,000 miles depending on the engine and how you take care of it. The engines with the shortest lifespan are the 5.4L V8 that has 16 valves.
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.
1998 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
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Ford Expedition vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Ford Expedition
The NHTSA has received 901 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Ford Expedition. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Ford Expedition vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-08
- VIN: 1FMPU18L6WL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: Bought replacement brake pads from RockAuto 07/08/2023 9:06PM order 244457897 that are supposed to be Bosch BSH BC702 ceramic. What arrived is unbranded, unnumbered tag torn off the box with no identifiers at all. All brake pads used should have numbers to identify street legal for use but these have NOTHING on them, the box, anything. Unsafe if cannot identify use. RockAuto wants me to pay for return for their mistake, but bigger problem is that unknown pads are being sent out by RockAuto. I still have unopened set if interested.
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-15
- VIN: 1FMRU17L8WL
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: PARKING ON THE STREET IN IS GONE
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-23
- VIN: 1FMPU1HL6WL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED AND SURGED AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-13
- VIN: 1FMPU18L9WL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL: THE SPARK PLUGS HAVE BLOWN OUT OF THE ENGINE BLOCK. THEY HAVE BEEN REPAIRED 3 TIMES. EACH TIME, IT SMELLS OF AN ELECTRICAL LINE IS BURNING, THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER GOES ERRATIC AND THEY ZEROS OUT AND DOESN'T MOVE. THIS HAS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING ON CITY AND HIGHWAYS.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-26
- VIN: 1FMPU18L3WL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 5.4L GAS ENGINE. SPARK PLUGS HAVE BLOWN OUT OF 2 DIFFERENT CYLINDERS IN 2 MONTHS. I HAVE FOUND ONLY THAT THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE FOR SEVERAL MODELS WITH THIS ENGINE INCLUDING THE F-150. FORD HAD DONE NOTHING TO ADDRESS THIS FAULTY ENGINE DESIGN. BOTH TIMES MY PLUGS BLEW OUT I WAS ACCELERATING FROM A STOP WHILE TURNING LEFT.
TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-09
- VIN: 1FMRU18WXWL
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION EQUIPPED WITH GOODYEAR WRANGLER TRAILMARK TIRES, SIZE: P265/65/R18 (NA). THE CONTACT PURCHASED THE BRAND NEW TIRES FROM WALMART. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY, THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED THAT STATED THAT THE LUG NUTS WERE COMPLETELY GONE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. WALMART FILED A CLAIM WITH THEIR INSURANCE COMPANY, WHICH STATED THAT WALMART FOLLOWED PROCEDURES WHEN THEY INSTALLED THE TIRES AND WERE NOT LIABLE. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN CONTACTED. THE CONTACT SPOKE WITH HER STATE'S ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE. THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 246,233.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-22
- VIN: 1FMRU18WOWL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL MY TRUCK HAS A BURNING SPELL AND WAS SOME SMOKE IT WAS PARK I WAS ABOUT TO PULL OFF ON MY STREET WHERE I LIVE
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-27
- VIN: 1FMRU18W6WL
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHEN WE BOUGHT THE VEHICLE IT HAD 22 INCH CHROME WHEELS AND TIRES. IT ALSO WANDERED ALL OVER THE ROAD. WE BOUGHT NEW STOCK SIZED RIMS AND NEW STOCK SIZED TIRES. IT STILL WANDERS ALL OVER THE ROAD. WE HAD IT ALIGNED. IT STILL WANDERS ALL OVER THE ROAD. GOOGLE SHOWS MANY, MANY COMPLAINTS REGARDING THESE VEHICLES' SUSPENSION, BLAMING RUSTING REAR LOWER TRAILING ARMS AND IN ONE CASE A LEFT STABILIZER LINK BROKE. I HAVE NOT CRAWLED UNDER THE CAR AS IT IS MY SISTER'S AND SHE LIVES A WAYS AWAY, BUT SHE WANTS TO SELL IT AND IS WORRIED IF IT IS SOMETHING MAJOR SOMEONE MAY GET HURT. WE CAN BE DRIVING STRAIGHT DOWN THE ROAD FROM 25MPH TO 60MPH AND THE VEHICLE JUST SORT OF FEELS LIKE THE BACK END IS NOT IN LINE WITH THE FRONT OR SOMETHING AND IT JUST TRIES TO CHANGE LANES ON ITS OWN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-08
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE SPARK PLUG BLEW OUT FOR THE SECOND TIME IN2 MONTHS. IT SOUNDED LIKE THE MOTOR WAS KNOCKING . FORD ONLY PUT 3 THREADS IN THE CYLINDER HEAD TO HOLD THE SPARK PLUG BUT THE SPARK PLUGS HAVE 10 THREADS. I CALLED FORD AND THEY ACTED LIKE THEY NEVER HEARD OF THIS BEFORE. THERE ARE FORUMS GOING BACK TO 2002 THAT I WAS READING YESTERDAY ABOUT THIS ISSUE SO CLEARLY THEY WERE LYING. OWNERS REPORT ENGINE FIRES WHEN THE PLUG BLOWS OUT. MY VEHICLE DIDN'T CATCH FIRE .THEY REFUSE TO FIX THIS DEFECT AND DENY ITS THEIR FAULT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-01
- VIN: 1FMPU18L7WL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: (TAKATA RECALL) I HAVE PURCHASED MY TRUCK FROM A LEGAL CAR DEALERSHIP IN RENO NV HAD 135000 MILES WEN BOUGHT IVE HAD TO REPLACE FUEL PUMP HAD TO BUY DIFFERENT RIMS/TIRES DUE TO WEAR OF STOCK RIMS .. EXHAUST PROBLEMS REPLACED FUEL INJECTOR. . WEAR OF THING CAUSING WATER DAMAGE WHEN RAINING OUTSIDE. SPARK PLUG EJECTED FROM ENGINE WAS IN MOTION 45 MPH STATIONARY MOVING PROBLEMS ALSO N WEN TURNING.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-13
- VIN: 1FMPU18LXWL
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I GOT IN MY 1997 EXPEDITION AND THE BRAKE WENT TO THE FLOOR WHEN HAVING THE BACK BRAKES INSTALLED THE MECHANICS NOTICED THE LOWER ON TROLL ARM WAS RUSTED OUT. HE THE LOOKED AT MY 1998 AND IT IS THE SAME WAY. HE SAID I CANNOT DRIVE THEM LIKE THIS. I DRIVE ON THE INTERSTATE DAILY.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-01
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I HAVE A FORD 1998 EXPEDITION, EDDIE BAUER EDITION. IT HAS A 5.4 LITER ENGINE WITH ALUMINUM HEADS. THREE TIMES I'VE HAD A HELICOIL BLOWN OUT LEAVING ME STRANDED. NOW A SPARK PLUG HAS BLOWN OUT BREAKING TWO COILS. FORD HAS MADE THIS VEHICLE FOR YEARS WITH THIS ENGINE. ALL WITH THE SAME PROBLEMS OF COMPONENTS BLOWING OUT OF THE ENGINE. I FEEL IT IS FORD'S RESPONSIBILITY TO START A RECALL AND FIX THIS DEFECT.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-19
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMRU18W4WL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: HE BRAKE PEDAL IS LOATED TOO CLOSE TO THE ACCELERATOR AND WHEN DEPRESSED GOES DOWN BELOW THE ACCELERATOR SO WHEN THE EXTREME RIGHT SIDE OF THE BRAKE IS DEPRESSED BY A BRUAD SHOE THE ACCELERATOR IS ALSO DEPRESSED CAUSING THE CAR TO ACCELERATE RATHER THAN BRAKING. THIS CAN AND DID RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT IN WHICH I REAR ENDED THE CAR STOPPED IN FRONT OF ME. THIS OCCURRED ON A CITY STREET WHEN I WAS MOVING IN TRAFFIC BELOW THE POSTED 30MPH LIMIT.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-14
- VIN: 1FMPU18L9WL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: #2 SPARK PLUG BLEW OUT OF 5.4L 2 V V8. WAS ON HIGHWAY AT TIME. HAD TO IMMEDIATELY PULL OVER AND DISCONNECT FUEL AND SPARK FOR THAT CYLINDER. WAS OVER 100KM FROM HOME, COULDNT AFFORD TO TOW VEICLE SO I HAD TO DRIVE IT THE REMAINDER OF THE DISTANCE HOME. INSPECTED TODAY, THERE IS NO THREADS LEFT. NOW NEED TO DRILL AND TAP HEAD, INSTALL HELICOIL/TIMESERT AND HOPE FOR THE BEST.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-17
- VIN: 1FMPU18L9WL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AT APPROX 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME STOPPED HARD. I IMMEDIATELY STEPPED HARD ON MY BRAKES. THE BRAKES INITIALLY APPLIED AND THEN FAILED. I SWERVED INTO A PARKING LOT AND APPLIED MY BRAKES AGAIN WITH NO SUCCESS. MY BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. I THEN PUT THE GEAR SELECTOR IN PARK WHILE MOVING AT A FAIRLY HIGH RATE OF SPEED IN ORDER TO STOP. THE VEHICLE GROUND TO A HALT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A REPAIR FACILITY AND I WAS NOTIFIED THAT THE BRAKE LINE WAS RUSTED AND DUE TO THE PRESSURE OF ATTEMPTING TO STOP HARD, THE LINE RUPTURED AND THE ENTIRE BRAKING SYSTEM FAILED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-17
- VIN: 1FMRU18W5WL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: WENT TO STORE, CAME OUT BATTERY DEAD, CAR WOULDN'T START. HAD NOT LEFT LIGHTS OR ANY ACCESSORIES ON. GOT A JUMP, DROVE TO AUTO PARTS STORE. THEY CHECKED ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY AND SAID BATTERY DEAD, NEEDED AN OVERNIGHT CHARGE. LET THEM CHARGE BATTERY, PUT BACK IN CAR, HORN STARTED BLOWING AND WOULD NOT STOP DESPITE MY USING BOTH THE KEY AND KEY FOB. HORN BLEW FOR 5 HOURS BEFORE I FOUND OUT HOW TO DISCONNECT FROM GOOGLE. GOT HORN TO STOP, AND CAR WOULDN'T START. FORD DEALER SAID ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM HAD TO BE REPROGRAMMED AT COST OF $250 PLUS TOW TO DEALER. I NEVER ARMED THE SYSTEM AND IT SHOULD NOT HAVE SHUT MY TRUCK DOWN AND PREVENTED ME FROM DRIVING IT. I DON'T HAVE $250 AND THEN I FOUND OUT THE REPAIR IS ONLY $100 AT MOST. BUT THIS ACCORDING TO MY DEALER HAPPENS TO ANY FORD ANYTIME THE BATTERY GOES DEAD AND IS REPLACED, ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM IS MAKING PEOPLE PAY $250 TO FORD TO REPROGRAM WHAT SHOULD NOT HAVE TO BE REPROGRAMMED. PLEASE HELP ME. THANK YOU. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-26
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH IN INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND IT ROLLED OVER MULTIPLE TIMES. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD, SHOULDER, AND HIP INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED FROM THE CRASH SCENE AND WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 198,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMRU17L4WL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: MY HUSBAND WAS PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY. HE SWITCHED THE TRUCK FROM PARK TO REVERSE AS HE DOES TO SLOWLY BACK UP, WITHOUT ACCELERATING, THE TRUCK ACCELERATED AT FULL FORCE IN REVERSE AND HE WENT CLEAR THROUGH OUR GARAGE DOOR WHICH BENT, CRUSHED AND DE-HINGED, THE GARAGE DOOR WAS THEN PUSHED BACK INTO HIS MOTORCYCLES AND INTO THE FRAMING OF THE HOUSE CAUSING MASS DESTRUCTION. THE CAR WOULD NOT STOP, THE GEAR WOULD NOT SWITCH INTO PARK AND THE BREAKS WOULD NOT WORK. THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE STOPPED FROM ACCELERATING AT TOP SPEED IN REVERSE INTO MY HOME. THERE IS BURN OUT MARKS IN MY GARAGE FROM WHERE THE WHEELS WERE SPINNING FULL SPEED, THERE IS A TAILPIPE BURN MARK WHERE THE TRUCK WAS LAUNCHED INTO THE GARAGE DOOR. THE VEHICLE CLEARLY FAILED MECHANICALLY AND IN THE PROCESS OF THAT THERE IS MASS DESTRUCTION TO MY HOME, OUR VEHICLE, OUR BIKES AND A TON OF STUFF IN THE GARAGE. THANK GOD MY HUSBANDS INJURIES DID NOT RESULT IN DEATH AND THANK GOD MY CHILDREN WERE NOT IN THE GARAGE AS THEY USUALLY ARE WHEN WE ARE OUTSIDE. THERE IS NO WAY MY LITTLE 3 YEAR OLD WOULD HAVE SURVIVED THIS. I FEEL VERY UNSAFE AND WILL NEVER DRIVE THIS CAR AGAIN. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-01
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE I WAS DIVING AROUND 35 MPH TO 45 MPH A HORRIBLE VIOLENT SHAKE STARTS TO OCCUR. AND IS VERY DIFFICULT TO ACCELERATE ESPECIALLY ONCE YOU HIT THE FREEWAY VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE AT SUCH SPEEDS. IT STARTS WITH A VIOLENT SHAKE WITH LOUD NOISES COMING FROM THE EXHAUST. IT HAS BLOWN 2 COILS ALREADY. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-04
- VIN: 1FMRU17L1WL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE SHIFT LEVER WAS PLACED INTO THE PARK POSITION, THE VEHICLE WOULD REVERSE AND FAILED TO MOVE BACK INTO THE PARK POSITION. THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 211,096.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-01
- VIN: 1FMRU1767WL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT FAILED TO SWITCH INTO THE PARK POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 97V171000 (POWER TRAIN). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-30
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: BLEW A SPARK PLUG, STRIPPED THE THREADS RIGHT OUT OF THE ALUMINUM HEADS (HORRIBLE DESIGN). NOT AN ISSUE FOR NEWER VEHICLES UNTIL THEY REACH 140-190,000 MILES, AND NOW I SEE ONLINE THAT IT IS A HUGE ISSUE FOR THOUSANDS OF OWNERS OF THE 4.6 & 5.4L ENGINES. BREACHING THE HEADS EXPOSES FUEL TO THE SPARK AND COULD CREATE DANGEROUS FIRES. THE FIXES ARE EITHER TEMPORARY OR VERY COSTLY, THIS SHODDY DESIGN SHOULD BE CORRECTED BY FORD NOW THAT ALL OF THESE VEHICLES ARE REACHING HIGHER MILEAGES AND STILL ON THE ROAD. FOR FORD TO SAVE A FEW BUCKS BY USING ALUMINUM HEADS IS NOT WORTH THE SAFETY OF THOUSANDS OF LOYAL CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE ALWAYS STOOD BY FORD. MY CONFIDENCE IS DEFINITELY SHAKEN BY THEIR WILLINGNESS TO COMPROMISE QUALITY AND SAFETY FOR PROFIT. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-13
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMPU18L4WL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I STOPPED THE VEHICLE AT MY GARAGE AND PLACED IT IN PARK SO I COULD UNLOAD GROCERIES. I LEFT THE CAR IGNITION ON AND EXITED THE VEHICLE TO PUT THE GROCERIES IN THE GARAGE. I UNLOADED ONE BAG AND RETURNED TO THE VEHICLE FOR THE SECOND BAG AND AS I WALKED UP TO IT, THE VEHICLE STARTED MOVING BACKWARDS SLOWLY I PANICKED. I ATTEMPTED TO GET INTO THE AUTO TO APPLY THE BRAKE, THE VEHICLE THEN STARTED MOVING QUICKER BEFORE I WAS SECURELY IN IT. AS THE AUTO INCREASED SPEED I LOST MY FOOTING AND FELL OUT AND WAS RUN OVER BY THE EXPEDITION, AND NEIGHBORS CALLED THE AMBULANCE AND I WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL AND TREATED BY THE TRAUMA TEAM IN THE EMERGENCY ROOM AND ADMITTED FOR MY INJURIES A RIGHT BROKEN ANKLE, 9 BROKEN RIBS, AND A BROKEN WRIST. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-19
- VIN: 1FMEU18W9WL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I HAVE A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION THE SPARK PLUGS NUMBER 3 AND 4 KEEP GOING OUT I HAVE DONE EVERYTHING I CAN OWN MY BUDGET TO TRY AND FIX BUT THE PROBLEM KEEP HAPPEN. I SMELL GAS AND SEE SMOKE THIS IS THE ONLY VEHICLE I HAVE TO GET ME AND MY DAUGHTER AROUND I NEED THIS PROBLEM FIX PERMANENTLY DON'T WONT NOTHING TO HAPPEN TO ME AND MY KID AS FAR AS TRUCK FIRE OR GAS FUMES. SO PLEASE CAN YOU GET WITH FORD TO FIX BEFORE SOMETHING BAD HAPPENS TO US.THANK YOU. *TR
1998 Ford Expedition recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1998 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: 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.
Negative 1998 Ford Expedition car reviews
Positive 1998 Ford Expedition car reviews
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You're quite the car enthusiast! From fast and sporty cars like the Firebird, convertible Trans Am, and convertible SS Camaro, to everyday grocery getters like the Ford Taurus, you've owned them all. And let's not forget the Ford F-350 Super Duty Diesel Lariat, which you absolutely loved. But then you found your Expedition, and it's safe to say that you're head over heels for it. Not only does it have that sporty look you love, but it also provides all the room and comfort you could ask for. And when you need to haul something large, you can simply take out the third row seat. Plus, with plenty of room and seatbelts for everyone, it's the perfect vehicle for when your kids have friends over.
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This 98 Expedition has exceeded all expectations for reliability, comfort, towing, and performance. As the original owner, I have been able to haul cargo, three dogs, and take family trips with great road visibility and no travel fatigue. It's been a fantastic investment!
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I like the Expi, but after 12K miles, I don't love it. Unfortunately, in the 18 months we've owned it (lease turn-in), we've had a few issues. The switch that controls the turn signals and brake lights has broken, and we've had the brake warning light and check engine light come on. Additionally, one of the rear windows severely bends the weather stripping when rolled up. The shop couldn't tell me why the brake light came on, and I'll have to go to the dealer ($$) for the check engine light since the local auto parts sensor reader gave conflicting messages. I have the 17
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to let you know that I bought this car 9 months ago with 69000 miles on it, and now it has 80000. So far, I've only needed to do routine maintenance on it. My family and I absolutely love traveling in it! When it's time to replace this one, I'll definitely be getting another.
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My husband bought me this car for Mother's Day in 2009 and we absolutely love it! Despite having over 200,000 miles on it, it still runs like a champ, with the exception of the number 4 spark plug fouling. It's not very owner-friendly when it comes to replacing the spark plug yourself, and it can be difficult to find someone to fix it without charging an arm and a leg. Other than the cost of upkeep, the price of gas, and the inconvenience of the third row seat, we still love it and plan to get another one when this one finally dies. Hopefully, that won't be for a few more years at least!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Ford Expedition problems:
1998 Ford Expedition Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 1998 Ford Expedition? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Ford Expedition.
98 Expedition multiple problems | Ford Expedition Forum
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1998 Ford Expedition Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
TSB For Possible Ejection of Spark Plug From Cy... The ford expedition has known issues with the v8 engine ejecting spark plugs. this will make a tapping or ...
1998 Anti-Theft System Problems | Ford Expedition Forum
Jul 25, 2004 ... Hello! I have a 1998 Expedition XLT and have been having problems with the Anti-Theft System. If we leave the tailgate/hatch open for an ...
Q&A: 1998 Ford Expedition Fuel Pump Problems & Towing Capacity
Jun 15, 2020 ... 1998 Ford Expedition 5.4. Completely stumped on this one. Started as rough idle, low power now its a Crank no Start. but - Answered by a ...
Other years of Ford Expedition
Are you having problems with your 1998 Ford Expedition?
Emmanuel Bogisich 2025-01-04
I am confident in stating that the Ford Expedition and trucks manufactured in '98 and '99 have major engine defects involving the cylinder heads, which unfortunately led to the need for a new engine in my vehicle. Despite the dealership's difficulty in fixing the electrical problems, it is common knowledge that Ford has not acknowledged this issue.
Tod Borer 2024-07-07
You'll feel reliable, comfortable, and secure while driving.
Marquis Jenkins 2024-02-05
We are in a bit of a rush to sell our vehicle before our extended warranty runs out due to some electronic issues that we have experienced. We have heard from many others who have had the same issues. One of the most notable examples from our experience was when the doors would continuously lock and unlock while the radio and heater were on full blast, even though there were no keys in the ignition. This was blamed on a 'faulty remote key'. Another more concerning example was when the car started itself in our garage without any keys. This time it was blamed on water shorting a computer. All of these electrical issues have been quite a nightmare.