2018 Ford Expedition

These are unverified consumer reports filed with NHTSA, shown as submitted.

• 12/30/2025· EXTERIOR LIGHTING

  DRL failure is widespread across ford vehicles and should be addressed by the manufacturer.

• 12/30/2025· POWER TRAIN

  When attempting to pass a slow moving vehicle on a 2 lane highway when driving up a hill the transmission failed to properly shift instead making a loud clunking and grinding sound before eventually managing to shift into a gear. This failure to shift properly meant that the vehicle was unexpectedly without power when trying to change lanes leading to a dangerous situation.

• 12/28/2023· POWER TRAIN

  Gears are slipping, vehicle loses power, clunking noises, ghost spanner icon on dashboard, jerks heavily sometimes when going from park to drive, shift system displays on dash after noises.

• 12/28/2020· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

  MY 2018 FORD EXPEDITION MAX 4X4 WAS DIAGNOSED WITH THE ISSUE DESCRIBED IN TCB-20-2315 IN AUG 2019. THE REPAIR WAS DONE PER THE TCB AND COMPLETED IN OCT 2019. THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE SHOP FOR 10 WEEKS AND I HAD TO RETURN IT 4 TIMES FOR ADDITIONAL REPAIRS UNTIL THE ISSUE WAS TEMPORARILY RESOLVED. THE PROBLEM REOCCURED IN JUL 2020 AND IT TOOK OVER 5 VISITS TO THE DEALERSHIP AND INTERVENTION FROM FORD CUST SERVICE TO GET THE VEHICLE REPAIRED IN DEC 2020. I HAVE ALREADY RETURNED THE VEHICLE AGAIN THIS TIME BECAUSE THE ISSUE WAS NOT RESOLVED AND NOW WILL NEED TO RETURN THE VEHICLE A THIRD TIME. THIS WILL MAKE 7 TOTAL ATTEMPTS TO GET THE VEHICLE FIXED FOR THE SAME ISSUE. FORD REFUSES TO REPLACE THE VEHICLE AND DENIED MY BUYBACK REQUEST. THIS VEHICLE IS A LEMON PLAIN AND SIMPLE. I FOLLOWED THE PROCEDURES PER STATE LAW IN NOTIFYING FORD AND ALLOWING THEM TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. CLEARLY, THE ROOT CAUSE OF THE ISSUE HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED AND THE REPAIR JUST COMPLETED IS JUST A REPEAT OF THE FIRST. THIS TIME, I WAS ON VACATION WITH MY FAMILY IN THE MOUNTAINS OF WEST VIRGINIA IN THE DEAD OF WINTER WITH WINDCHILLS OF MINUS 15 DEGREES. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND POWER TRAIN LIGHTS CAME ON, THE TURBO SHUT DOWN, AND WHITE SMOKE STARTED BILLOWING OUT OF THE TAILPIPE. WE COULD BARELY MAINTAIN SPEED ON INCLINES AND HAD TO STOP FOR LOW OIL PRESSURE MULTIPLE TIMES. WE COULD HAVE BEEN STRANDED IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE WITH NO CELL RECEPTION. A PROBLEM I ANTICIPATED AND EXPRESSED TO FORD WHEN I RETURNED THE VEHICLE FOR THE SIXTH ATTEMPT. I WANT THE VEHICLE REPLACED WITH THE SAME VEHICLE THAT IS NOT DEFECTIVE. THAT IS ALL. WHY IS THIS SUCH A CHALLENGE FOR FORD TO SOLVE? I HAVE LITERALLY INVESTED HUNDREDS OF HOURS ATTEMPTING TO NAVIGATE THIS NIGHTMARE. ATTACHED IS THE LETTER I SENT FORD IN SEP 2020. THE VEHICLE CANNOT BE OPERATED SAFELY AND IS STUCK IN MY DRIVEWAY. I AM NOW WITHOUT A CAR.

• 12/16/2025· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

  The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving over 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled on two occasions. The contact stated that while driving a roundabout, the vehicle lost motive power. The accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle jerked and was sluggish, and there was no area to pull over to. Upon parking the vehicle, the power train warning light was illuminated. The contact called an independent mechanic who was unable to service the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the vehicle was jerking due to the CS drum and transmission failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted regarding the latest symptoms that the vehicle had displayed. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.

• 12/15/2025· POWER TRAIN

  My vehicle has started to have problems shifting in some gears(3rd & 7th). I have been doing research, and this seems to be a recurring problem for vehicles with the 10r80 transmission. Where this has caused a big safety risk, is that a few times, the vehicle wouldn't move when pushing on the gas after having the foot on the brake after I had already left and been driving it for 5-10 minutes. This has put me at risk of getting hit by oncoming cars since I couldn't get the vehicle to go as it should to cross a road or intersection. My vehicle shows no dashboard warnings that anything is wrong. I have had all regular maintenance done, don't use the vehicle for towing, and I only have 70k miles on the car. Over the years I have had it where it just feels like the vehicle won't shift, but it has gone away pretty quickly. It's only been since this summer that it is now a persistent issue. I have brought it up over the years to the ford service department, and nothing was shared with me that there was an issue with the vehicle transmission. It is now that it's been consistent(only when the transmission is cold) that this happens on every drive. All Ford wants to do is charge me to rebuild the transmission conveniently now that I am out of warranty!

• 12/12/2018· EXTERIOR LIGHTING

  THE HALOGEN HEADLIGHTS IN MY 2018 FORD EXPEDITION LIMITED ARE TOO DIM AND UNSAFE FOR ROADS THAT ARE NOT LIT OR FOR DRIVING IN THE RAIN ON ANY ROAD. I CANNOT SEE THE ROAD WELL AND I FEEL THAT THE HALOGEN BULBS ARE NOT A GOOD ENOUGH OPTION IN A 60K+ VEHICLE. I AM EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED IN FORD MOTOR COMPANY FOR CUTTING CORNERS AND NOT MAKING THE LED HEADLIGHT HOUSING STANDARD FOR ALL OF THEIR VEHICLES. THE FORD OEM HALOGEN BULBS ARE EXTREMELY DIM AND UNSAFE FOR CONSUMER USE. IF THERE WAS SOMETHING IN THE ROAD, I DON'T THINK MY HEADLIGHTS WOULD GIVE ME ENOUGH NOTICE TO AVOID AN OBSTRUCTION. VERY UNSAFE.

• 12/11/2019· VISIBILITY/WIPER

  TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAILED TO TURN OFF. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE STARTED INTERMITTENTLY AND WORSENED. THE CONTACT CALLED DICK SMITH FORD OF COLUMBIA (7201 GARNERS FERRY RD, COLUMBIA, SC 29209, (803) 254-4000) AND SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: CAS25128240. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 54,736.

• 12/10/2024· ENGINE

  Faulty Cam phasers The cam phasers in this vehicles makes an undesirable noise, such as a rattle when starting the engine or a knocking noise when idling. Vehicle has at times experiences Poor acceleration, Rough engine running, Tapping or rattling noise when the engine is idling and hot

• 12/10/2020· STRUCTURE

  THIS IS OUR SECOND WINTER WITH THIS VEHICLE AND BOTH SEASONS DURING WINTER TEMPERATURES THE RIGHT REAR DOOR WILL NOT LATCH TO STAY SHUT. WE HAVE SMALL CHILDREN THAT RIDE IN THE REAR OF THIS VEHICLE, SO THIS MAKES THIS MUCH MORE OF A CONCERN. MY HUSBAND IS A MECHANIC AND TRIES EVERYTHING TO MAKE IT WORK AND IT HAS BEEN A HUGE HASSLE. ESPECIALLY FOR SUCH A NEW, EXPENSIVE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY WHEN THIS HAPPENS AS WE ARE UNABLE TO GO ANYWHERE WITH A DOOR THAT WILL NOT SHUT!

• 12/09/2022· POWER TRAIN

  Powertrain/ Transmission required replacement. Replacement transmission from the factory deemed defective and suffered a catastrophic failure in less than 24 hours after install.

• 12/07/2023· ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

  The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, there was a grinding sound coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that the sound was more evident at the initial start-up. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer who diagnosed that the cam phasers had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact was informed that the failure was a known failure. The manufacturer had been made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 46,000.

• 12/06/2021· SUSPENSION

  Left front Strut was leaking at 7000, was replaced by ford. 12/6/2, the SUV has 27,800 miles and the same Strut is leaking again. The car is been only drive on city roads and freeway. I can see many people are complaining about the same issue.

• 12/06/2019· SUSPENSION

  DURING A ROUTINE OIL CHANGE, THE FORD DEALER FOUND ALL FOUR OF MY SUSPENSION STRUTS WERE LEAKING. UNLESS THE VEHICLE WAS DROPPED FROM 50 FEET IN THE AIR, THERE IS NO REASON FOUR STRUTS SHOULD BE LEAKING. IT HAS TO BE DEFECTIVE STRUTS.

• 12/05/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER

  The chrome trim on the upper center console of my 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum Max has begun peeling and lifting, creating a razor-sharp exposed metal edge in the front passenger compartment. The sharp metal edge is located where the driver and front passenger/children rest their arms and where the console storage is opened and accessed during normal use. The edge is sharp enough to cause deep lacerations with normal contact. This defect has already resulted in multiple significant cuts to occupants, producing wounds that bled for several hours and required medical care to control bleeding. The center console cannot be used safely without risk of injury, and occupants cannot reasonably avoid contact with the affected area. A vehicle interior surface should never create the risk of open wounds to occupants during ordinary operation. Manufacturer Response Ford Motor Company, Ford Customer Care, and Ford Protect have been notified of the safety risk. Despite documented injury, the dealership and Ford warranty administrators have refused to repair the component, stating that the part is categorized as “cosmetic” in their parts system. Because of this internal categorization, they declined to submit or review the issue as a safety-related failure, and no remedy has been offered. Reason for Filing The failure of interior trim material to maintain structural integrity has resulted in dangerous exposed sharp metal, causing real injury and presenting a continuing safety hazard to vehicle occupants. Manufacturer refusal to take corrective action after injury demonstrates the need for federal safety review.

• 12/03/2024· ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

  The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that there was an abnormal clunking sound while starting the vehicle. The contact stated that while driving a undisclosed speeds, the engine overheated. The contact stated that there was an extremely loud knocking sound coming from the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N03. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined the failure was related to the cam phasers. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who confirmed there were no associated recalls. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the water pump needed to be replaced. The water pump was replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

• 12/01/2020· AIR BAGS,SEATS,LANE DEPARTURECrash

  FORD EXPEDITION WAS TRAVELLING AT 50-60KM/HR WHILE PASSING AN EMERGENCY VEHICLE ON A HIGHWAY. THE EXPEDITION WAS STRUCK FROM BEHIND BY A UTILITY VAN TRAVELLING AROUND 110KM/HR. BOTH FRONT SEATS SLID FORWARD AND ALSO RECLINED ON IMPACT. THIS CAUSED BOTH FRONT PASSENGERS TO SUSTAIN BRUISING ON THEIR CALF'S DUE TO THE SEATS SLIDING FORWARD AND WHIPLASH FROM BOTH FRONT SEATS RECLINING. BOTH FRONT SEATS TRAPPED CHILDREN IN THEIR CAR SEATS IN THE 2ND ROW FORM BEING RECLINED. NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED IN THE ACCIDENT AS WELL!

• 11/30/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

  I own a 2018 Ford Expedition, and the factory-installed backup camera has progressively failed. Initially, the camera display was intermittent—sometimes showing the rear view and other times freezing or going black. The issue has now worsened to the point that the camera no longer turns on at all when the vehicle is placed in reverse. This failure presents a significant safety hazard, as the rearview camera is critical for detecting pedestrians, obstacles, and other vehicles—especially in a large SUV with limited rear visibility. The loss of this feature increases the risk of an accident while reversing. Additionally, this defect renders the vehicle non-compliant with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 111, which requires all vehicles manufactured after May 2018 to have a functioning rear visibility system. Because the Expedition was sold with this federally mandated safety equipment, the complete failure of the camera should be considered a safety defect. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue, as it appears to be a widespread problem among Ford vehicles of this model year, and urge Ford to provide a corrective action or repair.

• 11/25/2021· SUSPENSION

  Vehicle has less that 40,000 miles on it. It has become almost uncontrollable if you hit any rough spots on the road. During the last oil change it was noted the rear shocks and struts were bad as well as the front struts. This is far to early for a vehicle to have these issues. It has never been off-road and only towed a small trailer one time.

• 11/24/2024· POWER TRAIN

  When oil in the transmission is still cold, even when engine has wormed up to operation temperature, the transmission is shifting hard, specifically it shifts the hardest from 4th gear into 5th. For a moment car has no acceleration, and then it slams into a 5th gear. I also noticed that the transmission shifts from 4th into 1st, then into 5th. It lasts about 30 seconds. It casing a safety issue when I merge onto a busy road, and try to get up to speed, car would not respond for those 30 seconds causing traffic to catch up and slam on their brakes to avoid rear ending my vehicle.

• 11/18/2024· POWER TRAIN

  Transmission Issue: We have experienced clicking with our transmission for years and have expressed our concerns to our Ford service department. Their response has always been that it was normal. Now our vehicle has started to lose power when shifting between 2 and 4 gear. The vehicle will lose all power, for anywhere between 3 and 7 seconds, and then violently shift into gear and launch forward. The RPM's will stay around 3-4 thousand for 2 to 3 seconds and then the transmission will operate normally. It is very infrequent, but it has happened on very dangerous roads such as [XXX] and [XXX] in California. It is very scary when it happens, and I fear that I will be rear ended because of it. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

• 11/13/2021· WHEELS

  The aluminum caps on the lug nuts swell making them impossible to remove with the standard lug wrench. Rather than equipping the vehicles with quality single piece lug nuts instead they are cheap lugs nuts with flimsy caps that are prone to early and premature failure. When I got a flat tire I was unable to remove the lug nuts with the standard lug wrench provided. What should have been a straightforward 1/2 hour tire change ended up being an over 4 hour ordeal on the side of the road. The only way to remove the lugs nuts was with a damaged lug extractor tool which I did not have at the time. The only way to get the tire changed was pay for a tow and then have all 24 lug nuts removed and replaced with better quality single piece nuts at a specialty shop at my expense.

• 11/12/2021· WHEELS

  Swollen lug nuts.

• 11/12/2019· POWER TRAIN

  THE VEHICLE HAS AN ISSUE DOWN SHIFTING FROM 5TH GEAR TO 4TH GEAR. IT CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO ACTUALLY SHAKE AND FEELS AS IF THE VEHICLE WAS JARRED. IT IS WORSE WHEN YOU HAVE THE BREAK APPLIED TO COME TO A STOP. THE DEALERSHIP INFORMED THAT THIS IS AN ISSUE WITH THE NEW 10 SPEED TRANSMISSION AND IT'S FUNCTIONING NORMALLY. HOWEVER IT'S VERY ALARMING WHEN THIS HAPPENS AND STARTLES PASSENGERS IN THE VEHICLE.

• 11/10/2022· POWER TRAIN

  Something is going on with the transmission we got it at dealer now it shifts funny 3 to 4 and 6to8 and sometimes you go to pull out and it revs up to 3000 rpm and don't move then it slam in gear and move and not all the time but sometimes you slow down you hear a crunching noises under expedition. If you stop fast it down shifts hard and if you go to move again it's like it's in a high gear it never shifted down .it's a 2018 10 speed transmission and if you read online ford has problems with them so why is it not a safety recall on this transmission before someone pulls out somewhere and gets kill because it won't move . It's a problem not a accident

• 11/06/2025· POWER TRAIN

  I was driving down the road at 45 MPH, I pushed the accelerator then my vehicle shifted out of drive to neutral, the RPM increased, the car speed decelerated, then the vehicle put itself back in gear severely downshifted so much that my car lost 20 MPH then the engine returned to normal after a violent shake and loud grinding noise. The car could have caused an accident had there been anyone behind me. Luckily there were no other cars around me. I had the vehicle towed to the dealer. They are unable to duplicate the issue I stated but did indicate a skip in cylinders when they hooked it up. I had the transmission overhauled at 53K when it was not shifting properly. I asked Ford to replace the transmission however they elected to overhaul it. From time to time the transmission would shift odd but nothing of over concern. The incident on Nov 3 was very unusual and safety of travel for me. The vehicle had done something similar earlier that morning but that time it was from a stop and no speed so not nearly as violent as the one later that evening. The vehicle is currently sitting at a dealer needing a transmission replaced, however the vehicle is 500 miles over the 75K ESP. Ford is refusing to discuss the problem.

• 11/05/2023· POWER TRAIN

  The transmission will drop to 1st gear from 3rd or 4th gear. The RPM’s will rev high, the vehicle will not accelerate. This is available for inspection if you’d like to see it. I was almost rear-end when I couldn’t get the vehicle to accelerate. Another time I was on the interstate and in 10th gear, I let off the accelerator pedal and the gear went to 9th gear, as I went to push back on the accelerator to speed up and the vehicle wouldn’t shift to 10th gear and again started to slow down, I immediately got over to head towards the side of the interstate. This is going to cause me to be rear-end if I can’t accelerate when I intend to accelerate. I can recreate this issue once the transmission is over 200 degrees (operating temperature). I have talked to several dealerships and transmission technicians. They believe the CDF Drum Clutch Hub bushing has slipped. The is a 2018 model, so this was BEFORE Ford Motor Company made the updated design to stop the bushing from slipping by create a “lip” to stop the bushing. This has not be officially inspected as most dealers are telling me 30-40 days and 7-12 weeks before they can even look at it. They say their transmission tech is booked way out. This makes me wonder why… upon my research these 10r80 transmissions have this problem. Ford even corrected the design (becuase obviously it was a faulty design, otherwise Ford wouldn’t have made this updated change). It does have a code saying “Engine Not in Park”. But displays no check engine light. It throws lights and warnings when it starts to rev high and says to “see manual”. Someone needs to do some research on these 10r80 tranmissions and Ford needs to correct this faulty design on models that have the bushing slipping. It’s not right that Ford corrected it for the latest models to only leave the older model customers high and dry and in the way of danger. Ford can make this corrective action, but what will it require from the public?

• 11/04/2024· ENGINE

  Engine sound when car turns on. Took the car to personal mechanic and a Ford Dealership both confirmed sound of engine when started. Can hear a sound (ticking/clicking) when idling.

• 11/02/2021· UNKNOWN OR OTHER

  The transmission would slip and not go into gear. Causing me to stall in the middle of intersections. This occurred multiple times and if I took my foot off the gas it woudl catch and I could go again. Dealership told me it could be PCM issue and was not able to see me until December of 2021. At the end of October it suddenly became almost undriveable and was limped to dealership. It was determined that the gear ratio for the 3rd gear was incorrect and at 67,318 miles and 4 years old it needs a new transmission.

• 10/31/2023· ENGINE

  Ford Motor Company David J. Johnson Service Engineering Operations He sent Customer Satisfaction Program [XXX] on November 19, 2021, to all U.S. Ford and Lincoln Dealers. This program extended the warranty coverage of the engine cam phasers. I purchased my vehicle on 11/22/21. It is my belief that this repair should have been covered by Ford/Lincoln before this vehicle was sold to me. We purchased an extended warranty protection plan (from MPP) when we purchased the vehicle. When the issue was reported to MPP they refused to cover the repair as well. It was reported to them a second time and we were told that the mileage had exceeded our plan limit and we were denied a second time. We believe that this vehicle should have been repaired before it was sold to us (Ford TSB proves that they knew this was a problem). It has not been repaired and we are faced with paying a bill of $4500-$5500 on our own. We are looking for guidance on the next steps that we should take in regard to this repair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

• 10/31/2018· POWER TRAINCrash

  THE TRUCK WAS BEING BACKED INTO A PARKING SPOT ,THE TRUCKS TURNED OFF I PUSHED THE PEDAL TO START THE TRUCK TO BACK UP AND IT PROPELLED INTO THE WALL OF THE ESTABLISHMENT THAT I WAS GOING INTO TO EAT DINNER CAUSING A GREAT DEAL OF DAMAGE TO THE BUILDING AND MY VEHICLE. MY BIGGEST CONCERN IS THIS PROBLEM NOT BEING LOOKED INTO. I HAVE A FAMILY AND WE ALL RIDE IN THIS TRUCK I WOULD NEVER WANT TO PUT THERE LIVES IN DANGER KNOWING THAT THIS IS A PROBLEM GOING ON WITH THESE TRUCKS.

• 10/30/2019· VISIBILITY/WIPER

  THE SIDE-VIEW MIRRORS ON THE 2018 FORD EXPEDITION PLATINUM ARE DEFECTIVE. WHEN ADJUSTING THE MIRROR TO A PRE-PROGRAMMED NUMBER, THE MIRRORS WILL START TO ADJUST THEMSELVES AND UNFORTUNATELY WILL GET STUCK IN AN ENDLESS LOOP OF MOVING, CLICKING, MOVING, CLICKING, ETC... THE MIRROR FAILS TO ADJUST TO THE PROPER LOCATION AND THE MIRROR MOTOR CAN'T BE STOPPED UNTIL THE KEY IS REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION AND THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IS COMPLETELY SHUT OFF (I.E. OPENING AND CLOSING THE DRIVER-SIDE DOOR. I'M SURE IF THE MOTOR ON THE MIRROR WAS ALLOWED TO CONTINUE TO ADJUST ITSELF IN AN ENDLESS LOOP, IT COULD POSE A FIRE HAZARD (NOT TO MENTION THE FUNCTION ITSELF IS FAULTY). THIS ISSUE APPEARS TO BE SOMETHING MANY OTHERS ON FORUMS ARE STARTING TO COMPLAIN ABOUT. FORD IS AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND HAS NOT OFFERED TO RESOLVE IT FOR ANY OF ITS CUSTOMERS. THIS ISSUE CAN OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE IS MOVING OR STATIONARY.

• 10/29/2019· EXTERIOR LIGHTING

  THE HEADLIGHTS ON THE 2018 EXPEDITION ARE AWFUL. THEY ARE FAR TOO DIM AND DISTANCE COVERAGE IS FAR TOO SHORT. THEY HAVE A SHARP CUT OFF THAT MAKES IT SEEM LIKE SOMETHING IS IN THE WAY OF THEM. THE BRIGHTS ARE BETTER, BUT NOT NEARLY WHAT THEY SHOULD BE FOR A 2018, $60K+ VEHICLE. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY CONCERN. NOT CONFIDENT THAT I WOULD SEE SOMETHING IN THE ROAD WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME TO SAFELY AVOID IT.

• 10/27/2025· EXTERIOR LIGHTING

  Passenger side daytime running lights (DRL) have dimmed, diminishing daytime visibility . LED bulb may be out. Seems to be a common problem per other Expedition owners. There were no warnings or messages stating problem. The only way to fix the problem is by replacing the entire headlamp assembly ($1,200 plus labor).

• 10/24/2024· ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

  The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle made an abnormal rattling sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact related the failure to Ford Campaign Number: 21N03. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000.

• 10/24/2023· POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

  I've had a couple of issues with my expedition since day 1. When I click on my memory seat to adjust seat/mirror etc. the front mirrors (not the encasement) will turn in one direction and sit there and click until I manually adjust the mirror(s). Today is 10/24/23 and starting yesterday, I was in rush hour traffic and noticed my motor sounded different. Then while headed to work it just started jumping and popping in and out of gear. I am in stopped traffic at one minute and the next be going 70 mph then back to stuck in traffic. So, my fear is driving this thing and it totally failing and it causing a serious wreck to myself and others! This needs to be addressed or I will never own another Ford.

• 10/24/2022· ENGINE

  While my wife and I were driving with passengers, I accelerated from the on ramp to enter the right lane of an interstate. I had to take my foot off of the gas pedal for maybe 1 second as the sight line became better. When I pressed the gas pedal to accelerate into the lane, NOTHING, no power at all for at least 3 seconds. Alarmed, I released pressure on the gas pedal and tried again, this time the engine and transmission engaged. Having no power in response to pressing the gas pedal was dangerous and frightening in that situation, particularly as there were cars that were closing in from behind in hat lane. This situation occurred a second time in almost the exact same sequence within a week. I thereafter took the vehicle to a Ford dealer. They advised there were no reports in their database and no procedures for the failure. AFTER reviewing how dangerous the event was, the dealer chose to reprogram the control for a charge, invoice and my note thereon is attached. The power failure was complete, as if there were no engine nor transmission. After the reset by Ford there was a different single incident with the powertrain which seems unrelated. While driving in a local town my wife took her foot off the gas pedal but the vehicle continued to accelerate. She braked after which the transmission appeared to "shift" and "reset" and thereafter acted normally. In none of the events was the cruise control engaged, in fact we rarely, if ever use it. The first incident was in July on a family trip, the next early August and after the reprogramming the last incident was the week of October 17, 2022.

• 10/19/2021· SUSPENSION

  When I drove a little bit uneven highway overpass about 50mph with family, three teenagers and my wife, I saw the rear bounces back a lot, almost lost control of the vehicle. Next day, I took it to local Ford Service and they say the rear structs and shocks were completely worn out, and need to be replaced. It has only highway mileage of only just over 20,000miles. Actually they were talking about leaking of oil through the seals and technician showed all four struts were leaking, rears much worse. The vehicle just passed 3 year warranty period by two months, and technician suggested the leakage had been there long before the factory warranty expired. So disappointed with Ford. This was my first Ford and will be the last.

• 10/18/2025· POWER TRAIN

  The transmission started jerking and downshifting and and like the brakes was coming on and stoping you and I was pulling out onto the road and it wouldn’t go and I was setting in the middle of the road with oncoming traffic and scared for my life, luckily I didn’t have anyone with me and it moved a little and I was finally able to get it out of the road. This is the problem everyone is having FORD you need to recall these transmissions and replace them with new ones that are better this is a shame and bad business. It is hard enough to afford buying vehicles in this day and time and then it need a transmission that is expensive to replace.

• 10/18/2023· POWER TRAIN

  I have had issues with my Expedition not shifting gears properly/slipping gears. This usually happens during acceleration. Rpm will rise but act as if I’m in neutral and significantly reduce my speed, then with a hard thunk it will jerk my car into gear. This has happened twice on the freeway, once almost causing me to be rear-ended with my children in the car. The other car had to swerve off to the side to avoid hitting me. The dash will flash a shifting warning light and go away almost as soon as I get the chance to look at it. The other times have happened on main roads in town. Thankfully where it’s easy enough to pull off to the side when this happens. But even so, it’s starting to happen more often and at slower speeds where I’m accelerating maybe 5-10 mph faster. Just today, and the reason I am finally posting a complaint, my car slipped out of gear and when it finally slammed back into gear, the force was so strong that it whipped me forward and caused me to brake in the middle of rush hour traffic. Not only that, but it went out 2 more times on my way home and now I’m hearing a rattling noise under my car (which is probably metal shavings). The only thing on the dash this time was a yellow warning reading ‘see manual.’ This is my family vehicle that I use to transport my kids to school, sports, etc. So they are in the vehicle with me about 95% of the time. I am honestly afraid this will happen again at the wrong time while they’re in the car with me. Is Ford waiting for a death to happen before they address this issue? Just do a basic search on Expedition transmissions and it’s all over the place. So many people are having the same issue and forking out so much money to replace or have their transmissions rebuilt. I have taken my vehicle in just for them to tell me they can’t recreate the issue and therefore nothing can be done. No codes are pulling and it drives fine. Ford needs to address this and recall their 10R80 transmissions!

• 10/16/2023· ENGINE

  The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated during cold starts, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and failed to accelerate as needed. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed a failure with the cam phasers. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N03. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 50,000.

• 10/14/2024· POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

  Since purchasing the vehicle we have had extensive issues with the driveability of the car. Leading up to the eventual full transmission replacement, we surfaced the issues below repeatedly for over a year and a half. Yet, we were always told "everything is fine" "we couldn't duplicate what you are describing" or "the vehicle has to learn how you drive". Biggest Issues: - Poor shifting of gears with sudden jerking and/or random accelerations - Vehicle not accelerating - acts stuck - Loss of 'power' vehicle does nothing - Eventually complete transmission failure in the middle of an intersection The transmission was completely replaced in Fall of 2023. Mind you this was only after I elevated my concerns to Ford Corporate who sent a specialist to investigate. Only then did Koons Ford acknowledge that yes there is a "big problem". Yet, since the repair the jerking and power issues have continued. When we followed up immediately after the repair we were told again "vehicle has to learn how you drive". So I waited 3000 miles and reached out again and was told I needed to go to the dealership and drive it with a technician in the car (yet again, not taking my word seriously). Then this summer the issues intensified and eventually the power boosters failed and needed to be replaced. This vehicle is NOT safe and Ford has misled me along the way. It has been a constant fight to get them to help us. Bottom line, this is our primary family vehicle as we have five children, four of whom I drive around daily. It is not safe or reliable. The vehicle has almost led to three major accidents, where I was stuck with cars honking at me. It's pretty pathetic when friends and coworkers frequently say "you don't have your car again?!? What's wrong with it now?" Please I kindly ask that you hold Ford fully accountable. I am now aware that when I inquired about a buy back in 2022, I should have not been told "no you are not eligible".

• 10/13/2025· POWER TRAIN

  Since November 2024 to date the transmission has reduced power when trying to accelerate thus being unsafe when trying to pull out into traffic. It also will not engage reverse thus again impeding when in traffic. It appears randomly. Verified software has been updated. Ford is saying complete transmission replacement is needed on a vehicle that is only 7 years old.

• 10/13/2023· ENGINE

  The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that on start-up there was a rattling sound coming from under the hood of the vehicle. The check engine warning light intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the timing chain and VCT actuator and solenoid 02 sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was also diagnosed, and it was determined that the oxygen sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 107,762.

• 10/13/2022· POWER TRAIN

  The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle and driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made rattling sounds. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was related to Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N08 (PCM Reprogram Due To Engine Shudder) and that the cam phaser also needed to be replaced. However, the dealer informed the contact that the manufacturer declined the repair due to the vehicle's salvage title. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and declined the replacement part due to the salvage title. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000.

• 10/11/2024· POWER TRAIN

  The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the vehicle was shaking and jerking. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle misfired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed transmission. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact that the repair was not covered under any unknown recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 117,836.

• 10/11/2022· SUSPENSION

  At approximately 30,000 the vehicle's suspension failed, leading to a very rough ride like a boat hitting waves, and at speed affects the ability to control the vehicle. The Ford dealer advised that all shocks needed replacing. The problem developed gradually over about six months. These or the original shocks on the vehicle, and their early failure is a defect and safety concern.

• 10/10/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE

  The sunroof on my 2018 Ford Expedition is leaking at multiple points and has become stuck and inoperable. The dealership advised that the brackets are broken and the entire sunroof assembly must be replaced. The leak occurs in several areas across the Vista Roof, causing water to enter the cabin. This appears to be related to known design defects already referenced in multiple Ford Technical Service Bulletins (TSB 18-2374, TSB 19-2374, and TSB 21-2292). Details: I purchased this 2018 Ford Expedition on August 17, 2024, from Battlefield Ford in Culpeper, Virginia, where it underwent a Ford Blue Warranty inspection before sale. The vehicle had approximately 98,000 miles at purchase and now has around 109,000 miles. Shortly after purchase, I noticed water intrusion from the sunroof area. The vehicle was inspected at Sheridan Ford in Smyrna, Delaware, where technicians confirmed leaks at four separate points, broken sunroof brackets, and recommended complete sunroof replacement. In addition to the leaks, the sunroof is stuck and will not operate properly. Ford customer service was contacted, but they stated that no assistance or goodwill coverage would be provided. I find this unacceptable given the severity of the issue, the existence of related TSBs, and the potential safety hazards associated with electrical and visibility impairment due to water intrusion. The vehicle also required brake replacement shortly after purchase, despite being reported as low 3 mm during the Blue Warranty inspection, which raises additional concerns about the adequacy of Ford’s inspection process and potential oversight of critical components. Safety Concerns: Water intrusion may affect electrical components, airbags, or roof-mounted sensors, increasing the risk of malfunction or short circuits. The sunroof’s inability to close or seal properly could result in driver distraction, loss of visibility, or mold and corrosion inside the cabin.

• 10/09/2023· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMFire

  Our 2018 Ford Expedition Max caught fire while on a test drive after repairs at Canby Ford. It completely caught fire and is a total loss. We were supposed to pick up the car an hour later. If our kids were in the car strapped into car seats, there may not have been enough time to get them out. They could have died. The mechanic who was driving saw the engine smoking and jumped out (he was at risk). The whole car was gone within 2-3 minutes. In my opinion it exploded as all the windows were blown out. The motor block melted, and the front end of the car is gone. There is a report with Canby Oregon Fire Department. Most people would assume it was overheating, get out and open the hood with their family still in the car. If that had happened people could have died. There were no check engine lights on when we took it to Ford. It was just close to the end of a warranty and there was an engine rattle we wanted fixed. Please come look at the car to investigate. It is at an independent insurance valuation company. I asked the manager of Canby Ford if he would report it to Ford Motor Company, he said no it would just go through their insurance. Ford needs to recall all of the expeditions so someone doesn't die in a fire. Ford already settled on the 2021 Ford Expedition and there are fires on older models and similar F150 Trucks. There are many reported fires without a recall. Please recall all the expeditions and investigate all the other Ford Vehicle fires swept under the rug. We don't want someone else to die due to a lack of action. The previous Ford Expedition settlement is not enough as it only covers 2021. If nothing is done, we plan to go public on the news with the photos, hopefully we can say NHTSA did something (or we can say NHTSA did nothing). Other families are at risk, they need to know to get out fast cause it could catch fire or explode. They need to not assume the engine is overheating (as I would have done 2 months ago) it could be on fire .

• 10/06/2023· POWER TRAIN

  The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the transmission was slipping, and the vehicle failed to exceed 25 MPH while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission had failed. The contact stated that the dealer replaced the valve body instead, because the manufacturer warranty department declined to cover the transmission replacement. The failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.