Ford Expedition
Encyclopedia
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV built by the Ford Motor Company
. Introduced in 1997 as a replacement to the Ford Bronco
, it was previously slotted between the smaller Ford Explorer
and the larger Ford Excursion
, but as of the 2005 model year, it is Ford's largest and last truck-based, off-road and tow capable SUV. Ford currently offers the standard regular-sized model and the larger EL/Max model, succeeding the Excursion which was discontinued in 2005. It is the second Ford vehicle to use the Expedition name, as it was part of the Explorer Sport's trim models during the 1995 model year. All Expeditions were originally built in Wayne, Michigan
. In 2009, Ford shifted its current third generation (2007–present) model production to Louisville, Kentucky
when Ford converted the Wayne assembly plant to begin further production of the Focus.
. It is similar to the Lincoln Navigator
, especially for the 2007–present model in Limited or King Ranch high end trims; both of which were introduced for the 2005 model year. With the 2011 model year Ford made changes in the base level department, with the newly designated XL trim a standard and upgrading the XLT to second level and replacing the Eddie Bauer
trim that was phased out from the entire Ford vehicle lineup. As of 2010, over 1,545,241 Expeditions (both standard and EL/Max) have been sold since its introduction. A specially modified Special Service Vehicle version is also available from Ford for law enforcement agencies, fire departments
, and EMS agencies
.
in Ford’s vehicle lineup. Expedition featured optional three row seating, first row captains chair luxury seating, available second row captains chair luxury seating, genuine premium leather seating surfaces (imitation leather was not available for Expeditions) illuminated running boards, heated side view mirrors, power moon roof, dual zone climate control and Ford’s premium Mach audio sound system with rear subwoofer
. Many of these features were standard on the top-of-the-line Expedition Eddie Bauer
. Expedition XLT served as the entry level model.
The Expedition’s mechanicals consisted of a short & long arm (SLA) independent front suspension, multi-link rear live axle
and speed sensitive power assisted steering. Optional equipment included off road under body skid plate protection, heavy-duty rear limited-slip differential and a heavy-duty trailer tow package.
Expedition was also available with an adaptive electronically controlled pneumatic suspension system that would raise and lower the vehicle depending on road and load conditions. The system also included a kneel down mode which would lower the Expedition down to allow easier ingress
and egress
as well as loading cargo. Similar to how a camel
kneels down to allow a rider to climb aboard.
Selectable part-time/full-time ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive which had been introduced on the 1995 Ford Explorer
was introduced for the Expedition, albeit a much heavier-duty version with Expedition receiving its own heavy-duty transfer case
unit (BorgWarner model: 4406) designed for high torque
output. The system included four modes: 2 High, Auto, 4 High (lock) and 4 Low (lock). 2 High mode and Auto mode with auto-lock wasn’t available on the Explorer’s system.
Engine choices consisted of a standard 4.6 liter Triton V8 or an optional 5.4 liter Triton V8. The first generation Expedition was rated as a Low Emission Vehicle (LEV). The latter engine combined with the heavy-duty trailer tow package and appropriate axle ratio can achieve a towing capacity of 8,100 lbs (3,674 kg).
with smart key and engine immobilizer, security approach lamps, 4-wheel ABS
brakes, side intrusion door beams, post crash fuel pump shut-off and three-point safety belts for all rows of seating with tension and locking retractors.
An optional 4-air bag supplementary restraint system (SRS) with 4-way occupant protection became available for the 2000–2002 model years. Dual front seat side impact air bags were added (bundled with the ultrasonic rear park assist) for upper torso protection. The side impact air bags can be identified by an oval badge reading "Air bag" attached to the outboard front seat bolsters.
2002 model Expeditions introduced the BeltMinder system which would detect when the driver didn’t have his/her safety belt secured. An audible alarm would sound, in the form of a warning chime
, until the driver’s safety belt was fastened.
auto dimming electrochromatic rear view mirrors, rearward-facing lane departure/turning indicator lamps on side view mirrors and ultrasonic rear park assist /backup sensors. The lower front bumper valance and illuminated running boards were changed over to Arizona beige to complement the standard Arizona beige exterior body trim on Eddie Bauer models.The turn signal indicator was moved to the side of the mirror instead of before on the glass itself.
sport utility vehicle to use a fully independent suspension system. The new multi-link independent rear suspension (IRS) reduced rear unsprung mass by 110 pounds, improving the suspension's wheel travel and ability to track uneven terrain and road surfaces for improved control and ride quality. The new IRS was perceived as being controversial by some at the time of its introduction. A misconception was that the Expedition’s towing and off road capabilities would be reduced, in comparison to the previous generation’s rear live axle
. Nevertheless, the Expedition’s ground clearance improved by 1.4 inches for a total of 8.9 inches. Towing capacity increased by 800 lbs (363 kg) for a high towing capacity of 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg) when properly equipped with the appropriate axle ratio and heavy-duty trailer tow package. Payload capacity was increased up to 1,614 lbs (732 kg). Expedition also gained a hydroformed fully boxed frame providing a 70 percent improvement in torsional stiffness.
Along with the high towing capability came all-new steering, braking and electronic systems to help the Expedition better control and maneuver long heavy trailers. Adaptive variable assist power rack-and-pinion steering was introduced along with the largest brake rotors in the segment at that time (13 inches up front, 13.5 inches in back) with brake calipers 100 percent stiffer than the previous generation Expedition. The 4-speed 4R70W automatic transmission received all-new control software to allow the transmission to automatically adjust to the demands of towing, using new computer logic
that recognizes changes in load and road conditions.
2 High mode was reintroduced on the available ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive system with Auto, 4 High (lock) and 4 Low (lock) modes. The transfer case use in the first generation was replaced by an updated unit (BorgWarner model: 4416). A new dedicated microprocessor
along with new control software were added allowing the system to detect different terrain
and surface conditions to predict traction loss before it happened.
The V8 engines offered on the previous generation were carried over, but not without major changes and improvements. Both the 4.6 and 5.4 liter Triton V8 engines received further refinements in design and overall efficiency
. Expedition qualified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle
(ULEV) and was certified under the Environmental Protection Agency Tier 2 regulations one year earlier than required. The 4.6 liter engine received an all-new redesigned cast aluminium
engine block optimized for weight reduction and NVH
improvements. The 5.4 liter engine received an all-new redesigned cast iron
engine block with computer designed ribbing and bracing, along with thicker side skirts and reinforcement at the oil pan flange. The new engine block helped reduce engine vibration and unwanted noise while providing refined performance.
Both engines featured piston skirts coated with a teflon based friction reducing material, and fitted with low tension, low oil consumption rings. In addition, a new fail-safe cooling mode provided protection even in the case of a catastrophic coolant loss (such as a punctured radiator). In the event of coolant loss, the engine control unit shuts off fuel to alternate cylinders to reduce the risk of engine damage from overheating. The valves continue to operate, in order to pump cooling air through the cylinders. The cooling system was designed to maintain an ideal engine temperature even when subjected to a prolonged 15 percent gradient
in 46°C (115°F) weather. A returnless fuel supply system helped to reduce evaporative emissions by providing consistent pressure to the fuel injectors through a high-pressure pump.
New active hydraulic engine mounts were introduced to prevent the powertrain from inducing vibrations into the chassis. By optimizing these engine mounts the engine block can act as a mass damper, absorbing chassis resonance, improving ride comfort.
Expedition’s passenger cabin was better sealed than before, in an effort to eliminate intrusive outside noise from reaching the occupants. Wind, powertrain, road and vehicle body noise was reduced by improving interior acoustics
through new damping
materials, a total of 10 shear-style isolating body mounts, heavier sealing of body and panels, redesigned rubber door seals, and extensive use of interior structural
acoustic foam in the upper B-pillars, upper and lower D-pillars and floor pan. Road noise was reduced by 2 decibels, body air leakage reduced by 56 percent, chances for sealant noise disturbances reduced from 15 percent to less than 0.5 percent and wind noise measured at 80 mph was reduced from 35 sones to a world class level of 29 sones.
The Expedition also received a thorough exterior and interior cosmetic redesign. Expedition featured an all-new front fascia, grille work, headlamps, body trim, rear fascia, tail lamps and liftgate. Interior fit & finish were improved with an all-new interior featuring new dash, door panels, genuine aluminium trim, and plush carpeting. Premium perforated leather
seating surfaces were standard on Expedition Eddie Bauer (optional on Expedition XLT). Expedition FX4 models featured all of Expedition's optional off road equipment as standard equipment. Expedition’s drag coefficient
was 0.41 Cd.
Three row seating was standard with all-new manual fold-flat stow away third row seats. No longer did owners have to remove the third rows seats for more storage. The third row could simply "disappear" into the floor. Power assisted PowerFold fold-flat third row seating was available as an optional extra. Available features included in-dash CD-ROM
based navigation system
, DVD
based rear entertainment system, ultrasonic rear park assist/back up sensors, power moon roof, power adjustable accelerator and brake pedals (introduced on the first generation Expedition), Gentex auto dimming electrochromatic rear view mirror, rearward-facing lane departure/turning indicator lamps on side view mirrors, second row captains chair luxury seating, premium Audiophile sound system with in-dash 6-disc CD changer and rear subwoofer
and 4-wheel independent adaptive electronically controlled pneumatic suspension system.
An optional 4-air bag supplementary restraint system (SRS) with 6-way occupant protection was also available. This new protection system included the new SafetyCanopy head, upper torso and rollover protection side curtain air bags which would deploy along the A, B and C-pillars down to the vehicle’s belt line. SafetyCanopy could remain inflated after deployment for extended protection. SafetyCanopy replaced the front seat side impact air bags featured on the first generation Expedition.
Other features included side intrusion door beams, security approach lamps, SecuriLock
with smart key and engine immobilizer, BeltMinder, three-point safety belts for all rows of seating, post crash fuel pump shut-off, tire pressure monitoring system
(TPMS) and 4-wheel ABS
with electronic brakeforce distribution
(EBD) and emergency brake assist
(EBA). AdvanceTrac was introduced as an optional extra and included both electronic traction control and electronic stability control (ESC). The electronic traction & stability mitigation system would expand to include roll stability control (RSC) for the 2005 model year.
technology and variable valve timing
. Along with the 2005 model V8 engine update, the Expedition also received a significantly updated version of the 4-speed 4R70W automatic transmission.
The new 4-speed automatic transmission, now called 4R75E featured fully electronic Smart Shift technology. A turbine speed sensor
improved transmission control and provided the basis for the fully electronic shift scheduling. The transmission's microprocessor
speeds were improved for better responsiveness and precision of the control system. The transmission was continuously learning, and would calculate the torque in the next gear and schedule shift points based on the Expedition’s projected performance in the next gear. For 2005 model Expeditions the 4R75E transmission is designated by the letter "B" on the manufacturers safety compliance certification label, located in the driver’s side door jamb. For 2006 model Expeditions, the 4R75E transmission is designated by the letter "Q".
. The heavy-duty 4×4s journeyed nearly 30,000 kilometres across North Asia
, the arctic tundra
and at times, uncharted territory. The expedition team was made up of six members (two in each vehicle) which included the expedition leaders: Alexey Mikhailov and Alexander Borodin; technical director: Andrey Rodionov and professional off road drivers: Sergey Goryachev, Victor Parshikov and Alexey Simakin. The expeditionary trip was exactly 28,000 kilometres or about 17,398 miles round trip (there and back collectively). The planned route resulted in the SUVs primarily traveling on permafrost
and herded
the Ford Expeditions across the Arctic Circle
twice. The expeditionary team visited landmarks such as the spot where American aviator Carl Ben Eielson was lost, and the birthplace of Russian explorer Semyon Dezhnev
. The northern most point on the route was latitude 69°42′ North (Pevek
). The eastern most point visited was longitude 169°40’ West (Cape Dezhnev
). The Ford Expeditions endured unforgiving terrain, constant frigid temperatures down to -36°C (-32°F), whiteouts
and a violent polar cyclone
that engulfed the expeditionary team toward the end of the expedition, resulting in the team stopping the vehicles. They remained inside the SUVs for protection during the storm’s nighttime onslaught as temperatures dropped and winds wailed against the vehicle windows. 200 kilograms (440 pounds) of snow were removed from each of the Ford Expeditions after the tail end of the storm swept across them again the following day.
The Ford Expeditions were off-the-shelf production versions equipped with the ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive system. Two of the SUVs were charged with towing dual axle utility trailers during the journey. The SUVs were lightly modified with front end guards along with front and rear utility bumpers, winches, safari roof racks, high-powered off road lights and extra belly plating for the engines. Because the trip would venture far from civilization, the vehicles were also equipped with gas stoves and high capacity auxiliary fuel tanks (mounted in the rear cargo bay) for when petrol/gas stations became nonexistent. The SUVs still retained their factory stock engines, transmissions, four-wheel-drive systems, suspensions, even their factory 17x7 alloy 5-spoke wheels. Two of the Ford Expeditions were equipped with caterpillar track
systems supplied by Mattracks. The rubber track systems were used when off road conditions became too demanding for conventional tread tires. Whether directly or non directly related, the rear stabilizer bar failed on the two Expeditions fitted with the Mattracks system. The problem was ruled most likely to be a combination of both overloading and extreme off road conditions. While the issue was fixed and the SUVs continued on with the expedition, the Mattracks however, continued to be problematic. The 5.4 liter Triton V8 engines were sometimes forced to run on poor-quality petrol/gas from unknown sources when high-quality fuel could not be found.
Expedition’s front end now featured Ford’s signature three-bar grille to complement the SUV's truck DNA
relation to the F-150 and Super Duty pickups. New complex stepped style multifaceted headlamps, side view mirrors with updated LED
lane departure/side turning indicator lamps, sleeker body work and redesigned tail lamps were also added. The interior received a new dash with F-150-like center stack, center console, redesigned first row captains chair luxury seating, door panels and interior trim. The column shifter was replaced by a floor shifter on the center console.
To further reduce outside noise intrusion for quieter, more isolated ride comfort, new SoundScreen laminated acoustic
and solar tinted windshields/windscreens were added with thicker laminated side window glass.
Expedition gained a modified version of the half-ton P2 platform from the F-150, designated the T1 platform
. This new platform provides 10 percent more torsional rigidity than the previous generation, and incorporates 4-wheel independent suspension (introduced on the second generation) with a redesigned five-link rear suspension and new lower control arms. As in previous years a 4-wheel independent adaptive electronically controlled pneumatic suspension system is available.
Additionally, the Expedition is powered by the same 5.4 liter Triton V8 engine
, rated at 300 hp and 365 lbf·ft (495 N·m) of torque from the previous generation. When properly equipped with the heavy-duty trailer tow package the SUV can tow up to 9,100 lbs (4,130 kg). Expedition is classed under the Tier 2, Bin 5 / ULEV 2 Ultra Low Emission Vehicle
environmental classification.
Ford’s new 6-speed 6R75 automatic transmission with dual overdrive gears was introduced. The transmission featured push-button overdrive lock-out, electronic shift scheduling, adaptive shift algorithms and a mechatronic transmission control module (TCM) that would save adaptive shift data
in keep alive memory (KAM). This safeguarded against complete data loss in case of a power failure (such as disconnecting the battery). In the event of a power failure, the mechatronic unit would simply read the last saved data entry from the system’s memory, thus, the transmission did not have to completely relearn
the owner’s driving style.
Off road geometry
figures for approach, departure and ramp breakover angles are 22°, 21° and 18° respectively. Minimum running ground clearance is 8.7 inches.
Selectable part-time/full-time ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive remains available with four modes; 2 High, Auto, 4 High (lock) and 4 Low (lock) as well as the electronically controlled infinitely variable locking center differential (multi-plate clutch system), multi-terrain 4-wheel electronic traction control and available off road under body protection. The system received an updated transfer case unit (BorgWarner model: 4417) and a new default off road program with throttle response recalibration, which is automatically activated when 4 Low mode is selected. Expedition can achieve an off road crawl ratio
of 41.06:1 with a low range ratio of 2.64:1 and rear axle ratio of 3.73:1.
The new SUV was unveiled at the Houston
Auto Show rather than at Detroit
, Los Angeles, or New York
where most new models are, as 20 percent of all Expedition sales are in Texas
. The third generation Expedition went on sale in August 2006. The first 2007 Expedition to roll off a Ford assembly line was donated by Ford to the Peter family of Jamaica, Queens
, New York
as part of an episode of the ABC
series Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
that aired May 7, 2006.
, MP3
device and iPod
connectivity, SIRIUS XM satellite radio
, HomeLink wireless control system
, tri zone automatic climate control for driver, first passenger and rear passengers, PowerFold power stow away side-view mirrors, PowerFold power fold flat third-row seating, Gentex
auto-dimming rear view mirror, adaptive pneumatic suspension system, power adjustable pedals, ultrasonic park assist, perforated leather seating, climate-controlled heated and cooled front captain's chairs with 10-way power adjust and memory, second-row captain's chair luxury seating, DVD
-based voice activated navigation system
with liquid crystal touch display
, power moon roof, slimline rear DVD-based entertainment system with flip down LCD screen, power-assisted liftgate
and 20-inch chrome-clad aluminium
six-spoke wheels with Pirelli
Scorpion all-season tires. Some of these features are available on Expedition XLT; many of them are included on Expedition Eddie Bauer and Expedition Limited.
Upgraded premium perforated leather seating, wood
and leather
-wrapped steering wheel with audio, climate and cruise controls, interior ebony wood trim, stylized blacked-out stepped-style multifaceted headlamps and monochromatic paint finish with body-colored grille and chrome accenting are standard on the high end Expedition Limited.
A 6-air bag supplementary restraint system (SRS) with 10-way occupant protection is standard on Expedition. The system consists of adaptive dual front air bags with Personal Safety System (PSS) and SafetyCanopy head and rollover protection side curtain air bags. The SafetyCanopy air bag system was redesigned to include third row seating and features multi-chamber inflation, roll-fold technology and extended inflation after deployment. SafetyCanopy will deploy along the A, B, C and D-pillars
down to the vehicle’s belt line. New dual front seat side impact air bags for dedicated upper torso protection were reintroduced, similar to the ones used on the first generation Expedition. The seat side air bags are denoted by a small identification tag reading "Air bag" stitched onto the outboard front seat bolsters.
Other safety features include side intrusion door beams, security approach lamps, SecuriLock
with smart key and engine immobilizer, BeltMinder, three-point safety belts for all rows of seating, post crash fuel pump shut-off, tire pressure monitoring system
(TPMS), AdvanceTrac with roll stability control (RSC), and 4-wheel ABS
with electronic brakeforce distribution
(EBD) and emergency brake assist
(EBA). 911 Assist, perimeter alarm and SOS Post-Crash Alert features were added for 2009-onward models.
SOS Post-Crash Alert will activate the Expedition’s horn and continuously flash the hazard/caution lights as well as the lane departure/turning indicator lamps on the side view mirrors after a collision
.
911 Assist system will be ready to assist in placing a call to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of air bag deployment. When a phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC (which happens every time the driver enters the vehicle with his/her cell phone), 911 Assist will provide a 10 second window to allow the driver or passenger to decide whether to cancel the call. If not manually cancelled within the 10 second window, 911 Assist will place the emergency call. A pre-recorded message will play when the call is answered, occupants in the Expedition will then be able to communicate directly with the 911 operator. Once the call is connected, 911 operators can respond to the situation exactly as they would with any 911 call. Emergency services can even determine the medical priority and dispatch the appropriate assistance based on the situation. If vehicle occupants are non-responsive, for example, the location of the vehicle can be determined through voice signal triangulation or by phones with a GPS location feature.
auto dimming rear view mirror’s picture-in-mirror technology to display what it sees. Expedition King Ranch was also reintroduced after being absent from the 2007 model year trim line-up. Expedition XLT models now get body colored lower body work, replacing the previous black plastic trim.
in Louisville along with its sister SUV, the Lincoln Navigator
, and the Ford F-Series
Super Duty. That plant used to build the Ford Excursion until 2005.
Expedition's 6-speed 6R75 automatic was replaced by an improved version, the 6-speed 6R80 automatic. 6R80 features more robust internals, new software logic and a tow/haul mode (replaces the overdrive lock-out) that utilizes new uphill/downhill gradient shift logic for improved performance while towing or hauling heavy loads. The 6-speed automatic can compensate for altitude
, grade/slope and present load conditions. The system also reduces the transmission’s tendency to "hunt" for the right gear(s) and provides engine braking when descending hills. The front bench seating option has been discontinued for the 2009 model year, and the chrome "Expedition" name plate badges have been removed from the left and right front doors. The chrome "Expedition" name plate badge on the rear liftgate remains.
Additional features included the now standard FlexFuel capability
, which can take gasoline, E85
(85% ethanol/15% gasoline), or any combination of the two, and the newly installed EasyFuel capless fuel-filler system. The 5.4 liter V8/FlexFuel feature also upgraded its torque power to 310 hp and 365 lb-ft. The 2009 model year also boosted its maximum towing capacity to 9200 lbs for the 4x2 version, and up to 9000 lbs for the 4×4 version.
The new entertainment features added to the 2009 model year included the optional Ford SYNC
, and an all-new DVD-based voice-activated, multi-entertainment/navigational system
with liquid crystal touch display. The rearview camera system is now integrated to show the video feed through the navigation screen instead for the rearview mirror, however, the rearview mirror is still used to show images on Expedition’s not equipped with the navigation system. The new navigation system features up to 10 gigabytes of storage space for more than 2400 songs, a jukebox function, a screened photo display, iPod
/Zune
capability for downloading and recharging, ripping CDs, and integrated compatibility for cellphones and Bluetooth; the newly compatible Sirius Travel Link, which allow drivers to access traffic, weather, sports, and local movie listings; and a "Route Guidance" mode for road and street information. The steering wheel also has a tilt feature and radio controls, including Ford SYNC buttons, allowing the driver to press the button and use voice commands to activate the system, which became standard on Eddie Bauer, Limited, and King Ranch. The tilt w/radio control feature was optional on the XLT during its Wayne plant built orders, but after production moved to Louisville it became standard. For accessory purposes, a HD radio can be installed upon request at a Ford dealership in the United States.
will now become a standard on all trims, including the navigation system, along with a dual DVD system that is now placed at the headrest area. Another change that was made was in the entry-level trim department, with the Expedition now offered in the newly designated standard XL entry level with lower black cladding, while the XLT level trim was upgraded along with a new XLT Premium trim with gold cladding, replacing the Eddie Bauer level trim. Also, silver cladding will be featured as an exterior trim as part of a newly optional XLT Premium Sport Appearance Package. Both Limited and King Ranch levels remain the same.
-sold Acura EL
, which was replaced in 2005 by the Acura CSX
(The Expedition Max name continues to be used in Canada). At first it was supposed to be called the Everest but Ford changed their minds at the last minute. However, Ford now uses the Everest
name for its SUVs in Asia. As with the standard size Expedition, the EL/Max version continued to have the same features from the 2007 to 2011 model year, but for the 2012 model year it added a cargo organizer as an exclusive feature.
The EL/Max replaced the discontinued Excursion
and is expected to compete more effectively with the Chevrolet Suburban/GMC Yukon XL. While both GM and Ford vehicles are similar in size (as both Suburban/Yukon XL 1500s and EL vehicles are packaged as half-tons), there is a difference in the pricing range, as the sale price for the EL model Expedition is lower than the sale price of the Suburban/Yukon XL's. Another difference is that while Chevrolet and GMC offer different engine sizes for their Suburban/Yukon XL models (5.3L, 6.0L and 6.2L), the EL/Max only comes with a 5.4L/V8 engine, just like its standard-size sibling and does not have a 3/4 ton version like the Suburban/Yukon XL has.
Outside North America
, including the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico
, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam
, the Expedition EL is also imported to and sold in the Middle East
and the Philippines
, where in the latter the EL version is the only type of Expedition that is imported and sold there. Ironically, the Philippines is also where Ford also sells the Everest SUV.
The Expedition EL is about 15.8 in (40 cm) longer than the standard Expedition for a total of approximately 222 in (18.5 feet or 563 cm), and has a 131 in (333 cm) wheelbase, producing 24 ft³ of additional cargo space over the standard 119 in (302 cm) wheelbase model. The EL/Max versions also carries the same updated (2007–present) features as noted above, save for the Eddie Bauer version (18" machine-aluminum wheels). And while they are larger in size, its maximum towing capacity is 8900 lbs on the 4x2 version and 8700 lbs on the 4×4 version, about 300 lbs short of the regular sized Expedition. They also received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA. The Expedition EL was also ranked 9th among the top 15 "Best Family Haulers", according to a June 2009 consumers favorite survey conducted by Edmunds.
Just like the standard sized Expedition, the Expedition EL originally came in 4 trim lines: XLT, Eddie Bauer, Limited and the King Ranch series during the 2007-2010 model year. After the 2011 model year was introduced, the trims expanded to 5, with the XLT and XLT Premium levels replacing the Eddie Bauer level and the newly designated standard XL entry level taking the XLT's place. The Expedition EL can be distinguished by its longer rear-quarter windows and the aft wheel well trim not cutting into the rear passenger doors.
, Canada
, Mexico
, the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico
, American Samoa
, the CMNI, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam
, the Philippines
, the Middle East
, Central America
, the Caribbean, South America
(except Argentina
, Brazil
and Venezuela
), Asia
(Cambodia
, Laos
, Mongolia
and South Korea
), Africa
(Algeria
, Angola
, Cape Verde
, Egypt
, Gabon
, Ghana
, Libya
, Madagascar
, Morocco
, Nigeria
and Senegal
), and Europe
(Armenia
, Kazakhstan
, and Kyrgystan).
For the Expedition EL/Max, all five versions (XL, XLT/Eddie Bauer, XLT Platinum, Limited and King Ranch) are available in the United States. From the 2007 to 2010 model years, The EL/Max level trims were limited to only 3 versions for Canada and The Middle East, two for Mexico, and one for the Philippines. Canada's Expedition Max offered the Eddie Bauer, Limited and King Ranch trims, Mexico's Expedition Max in Limited and King Ranch trims, and the Middle East's EL level trims in XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited. The Philippines' lone Expedition EL level trim was the Eddie Bauer model from 2007 to 2010. After the 2011 model year Ford made changes in the international exportation of the EL/Max trims. As a result of the changes, the Limited trim became the only version available in Canada and Mexico as Eddie Bauer (in Canada) and King Ranch trims (in both Canada and Mexico) were discontinued, while the Philippines and the Middle East replaced the Eddie Bauer with the XLT trim. The Middle East also started to get all of the 5 US level base trims, including the new XL trims that took the XLT's place and the King Ranch trim.
four wheel drive designed by BorgWarner
is standard on all 4WD Expeditions. There are four modes: 2 High mode, Auto mode, 4 High mode and 4 Low mode. Each mode can be selected via a rotary control dial on the dash.
The Expedition's system uses a heavy-duty two-speed BorgWarner transfer case
with a software-controlled infinitely-variable electromagnetic multi-plate clutch pack locking center differential. The 4×4 system does not use a conventional planetary or bevel
geared center differential, which are typically found in traditional full-time 4WD systems where torque is permanently supplied to all four wheels, all the time.
Below is the operational behavior mode-by-mode for the current version of ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive used in the third generation (2007–present) Expedition.
Note that older versions still work in similar fashion, but will not be equipped with default off road program/throttle control recalibration and may not be equipped with AdvanceTrac.
4WD Expeditions come with standard dual front-frame-mounted closed-loop recovery hooks and available off-road under-body protection. Steel plates are placed over vital areas with a composite shield for the fuel tank. Expedition 4×4s are tested along side the F-150 and Super Duty trucks at Ford’s California
and Arizona
proving grounds
. Expedition is put through the same durability tests and evaluations to meet the same durability standards as its pickup truck brethren.
Mechanical traction assist (1997–2006)
First and second generation Ford Expeditions were offered with an optional heavy-duty rear limited-slip differential (LSD) with a choice of axle ratios. A clutch pack inside the rear limited-slip differential would engage to transfer torque between the axle shafts to whichever rear drive wheel had better traction. The front differential on four-wheel-drive models was still an open type differential with no way to control wayward torque flow caused by traction loss. This problem was remedied with the arrival of AdvanceTrac for the 2003 model year. 2006 was the last model year for the optional rear LSD.
Electronic traction assist (2003–present)
Second and third generation Ford Expeditions were offered with AdvanceTrac, Ford’s electronic traction & stability mitigation system. Introduced as an optional extra on the second generation Expedition, AdvanceTrac was made standard equipment on all third generation Expeditions. 4-wheel electronic traction control
is included as part of the AdvanceTrac system for four-wheel-drive Expeditions. Rear-wheel-drive Expeditions only receive 2-wheel electronic traction control. The traction control system is programmed for on road and off road use with multi-terrain capability. 4-wheel electronic traction control initiates an ABS
brake apply and release cycle on any drive wheel which has lost traction. The ABS brakes clamp down on the slipping (spinning) drive wheel(s) and then release all in fractions of a second, causing the drive wheel(s) to slow down. Simultaneously, the repeated braking also causes resistance forcing the differential to transfer more torque
to the opposing drive wheel with better traction. The four-wheel enabled system can accomplish the off road performance of having front and rear limited-slip or locking differentials with none of the shortcomings. Using the ABS brakes rather than mechanical limited-slip or locking devices inside the axle differentials gives quicker response, more seamless performance and enhanced durability. Guarding all four wheels for traction loss, if needed, the system can transfer up to 50 percent of the supplied torque to any wheel which still has sufficient traction. In the right situations, a four-wheel-drive Expedition can keep moving, even if only one wheel has traction, no matter which wheel it is.
and GMC Yukon
in the full-size half-ton SUV towing segment. New competitors to the towing segment emerged soon thereafter which include the Dodge Durango
(which was discontinued in 2009, but reintroduced in 2011), Nissan Armada
and Toyota Sequoia
. Product research conducted by Ford indicated that 92 percent of Expedition owners use the SUV for vacations. Some 60 percent use it to transport outdoor sports equipment, while 40 percent of Expedition owners use the vehicle for towing.
The new half-ton Expedition EL/Max competes with the half-ton Chevrolet Suburban
1500 and GMC Yukon XL 1500 in the towing segment.
Over the years the Expedition’s towing capacity has grown from 8,100 lbs to a current rating of 9,200 lbs (when properly equipped). The list of towing features is also ever growing. Towing features common to all generations of the Expedition include: smallest possible turning radius
for increased trailer maneuverability, large side view mirrors to improve rearward visibility, side view mirror rearward-facing lane departure/turning indicator lamps, which are helpful to other motorist when the Expedition is towing a long trailer providing added visual safety, heavy-duty flashers, heavy-duty large robust disc brakes to withstand prolonged braking while towing and an available heavy-duty trailer tow package which includes necessary additions for heavy-duty towing.
module. The brake controller wiring harness is located under the dash on the driver’s side for easy installment of the brake controller module.
Expeditions are also offered with an adaptive electronically controlled pneumatic suspension system with self leveling, payload leveling and trailer load leveling capability. The pneumatic suspension can automatically detect when a heavy trailer is coupled, such as a travel trailer
, and level the load. Additional sensors placed on the left and right sides of the SUV also monitor and compensate for any listing caused by improper cargo loading. This keeps the Expedition running straight and level while towing, and at night helps to keep the Expedition’s headlamps from blinding oncoming traffic.
As of the 2010 model year, the Expedition received trailer sway control (TSC) as standard equipment. TSC builds off of the AdvanceTrac traction & stability control system to detect trailer oscillations and corrects it via asymmetrical breaking and reducing engine power until the Expedition and its trailer are both back under control.
To compete with large police SUVs that are sold by other automobile companies, primarily the Chevrolet Suburban
, Ford has made a special version of the Expedition that's only available to law enforcement agencies, fire departments
, and EMS agencies
. Ford calls it the Expedition Special Service Vehicle (SSV). The only differences between the standard Expedition and the Special Service Vehicle Expedition are provisions for emergency services related equipment such as radios, lightbars and siren
s. There are also options designated fleet only such as custom two-tone paint arrangements that are available to the Expedition Special Service Vehicle.
"FMF" trim and logos was offered for the 2008 model year only. This limited production model is based on the Limited trim level regular length Expedition and featured special Solid black and bright Colorado red two-tone paint work. Only 650 were produced and each are individually numbered on the center console.
Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company is an American multinational automaker based in Dearborn, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. The automaker was founded by Henry Ford and incorporated on June 16, 1903. In addition to the Ford and Lincoln brands, Ford also owns a small stake in Mazda in Japan and Aston Martin in the UK...
. Introduced in 1997 as a replacement to the Ford Bronco
Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco is a sport utility vehicle that was produced from 1966 to 1996, with five distinct generations. Broncos can be divided into two categories: early Broncos and full-size Broncos ....
, it was previously slotted between the smaller Ford Explorer
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a sport-utility vehicle sold in North America and built by the Ford Motor Company since 1990, as a replacement for the smaller but related Ford Bronco II. It is manufactured in Chicago, Illinois...
and the larger Ford Excursion
Ford Excursion
The Ford Excursion is a full-size sport utility vehicle that was produced by the Ford Motor Company between model years 2000 and 2005 . Based on the Super Duty pickup truck platform, it served as Ford's largest SUV in its lineup during the tenure of its production and mainly competed against the...
, but as of the 2005 model year, it is Ford's largest and last truck-based, off-road and tow capable SUV. Ford currently offers the standard regular-sized model and the larger EL/Max model, succeeding the Excursion which was discontinued in 2005. It is the second Ford vehicle to use the Expedition name, as it was part of the Explorer Sport's trim models during the 1995 model year. All Expeditions were originally built in Wayne, Michigan
Wayne, Michigan
Wayne is a city in Wayne County in the U.S. state of Michigan, southwest of Detroit. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 17,593...
. In 2009, Ford shifted its current third generation (2007–present) model production to Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville is the largest city in the U.S. state of Kentucky, and the county seat of Jefferson County. Since 2003, the city's borders have been coterminous with those of the county because of a city-county merger. The city's population at the 2010 census was 741,096...
when Ford converted the Wayne assembly plant to begin further production of the Focus.
Vehicle Background
The Expedition offered up to nine passenger seating in model years before 2007 (with a front bench seat option); 2007–present offer 2 bucket seats in the first row. It is equipped with a V8 engineV8 engine
A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
. It is similar to the Lincoln Navigator
Lincoln Navigator
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV built by the Ford Motor Company for its luxury division, Lincoln. Introduced as a 1998 model, production began May 14, 1997 with sales beginning in August. The Navigator was Lincoln's first SUV as well as its first four-wheel drive capable vehicle...
, especially for the 2007–present model in Limited or King Ranch high end trims; both of which were introduced for the 2005 model year. With the 2011 model year Ford made changes in the base level department, with the newly designated XL trim a standard and upgrading the XLT to second level and replacing the Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer Holdings Inc. is a holding company that operates the Eddie Bauer clothing store chain, headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, United States. EBH was formed after Eddie Bauer's former parent company, Spiegel, Inc., went bankrupt in 2003...
trim that was phased out from the entire Ford vehicle lineup. As of 2010, over 1,545,241 Expeditions (both standard and EL/Max) have been sold since its introduction. A specially modified Special Service Vehicle version is also available from Ford for law enforcement agencies, fire departments
Firefighting worldwide
As firefighting has a rich history throughout the world, traditions in this profession vary widely from country to country.-Australia:In Australia, fire services are state/territory organisations....
, and EMS agencies
Emergency medical services
Emergency medical services are a type of emergency service dedicated to providing out-of-hospital acute medical care and/or transport to definitive care, to patients with illnesses and injuries which the patient, or the medical practitioner, believes constitutes a medical emergency...
.
First generation (1997–2002)
Known internally at Ford as the UN93, the first generation Ford Expedition was developed under the UN93 program. The all-new full-size SUV was introduced in late 1996 as a 1997 model, replacing the aging two-door Ford BroncoFord Bronco
The Ford Bronco is a sport utility vehicle that was produced from 1966 to 1996, with five distinct generations. Broncos can be divided into two categories: early Broncos and full-size Broncos ....
in Ford’s vehicle lineup. Expedition featured optional three row seating, first row captains chair luxury seating, available second row captains chair luxury seating, genuine premium leather seating surfaces (imitation leather was not available for Expeditions) illuminated running boards, heated side view mirrors, power moon roof, dual zone climate control and Ford’s premium Mach audio sound system with rear subwoofer
Subwoofer
A subwoofer is a woofer, or a complete loudspeaker, which is dedicated to the reproduction of low-pitched audio frequencies known as the "bass". The typical frequency range for a subwoofer is about 20–200 Hz for consumer products, below 100 Hz for professional live sound, and below...
. Many of these features were standard on the top-of-the-line Expedition Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer Holdings Inc. is a holding company that operates the Eddie Bauer clothing store chain, headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, United States. EBH was formed after Eddie Bauer's former parent company, Spiegel, Inc., went bankrupt in 2003...
. Expedition XLT served as the entry level model.
The Expedition’s mechanicals consisted of a short & long arm (SLA) independent front suspension, multi-link rear live axle
Live axle
A live axle, sometimes called a solid axle, is a type of beam axle suspension system that uses the driveshafts that transmit power to the wheels to connect the wheels laterally so that they move together as a unit....
and speed sensitive power assisted steering. Optional equipment included off road under body skid plate protection, heavy-duty rear limited-slip differential and a heavy-duty trailer tow package.
Expedition was also available with an adaptive electronically controlled pneumatic suspension system that would raise and lower the vehicle depending on road and load conditions. The system also included a kneel down mode which would lower the Expedition down to allow easier ingress
Ingress
Ingress may refer to:* the act of entering, and the antonym of egress* a type of noise typically encountered when using coaxial cable* Ingress filtering, a computer network packet filtering technique...
and egress
Egress
Egress may refer to:* the act of exiting, and the antonym of ingress* Egress , the right of a person to leave a property* Egress , the passage of electromagnetic fields through the shield of a coaxial cable-See also:...
as well as loading cargo. Similar to how a camel
Camel
A camel is an even-toed ungulate within the genus Camelus, bearing distinctive fatty deposits known as humps on its back. There are two species of camels: the dromedary or Arabian camel has a single hump, and the bactrian has two humps. Dromedaries are native to the dry desert areas of West Asia,...
kneels down to allow a rider to climb aboard.
Selectable part-time/full-time ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive which had been introduced on the 1995 Ford Explorer
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a sport-utility vehicle sold in North America and built by the Ford Motor Company since 1990, as a replacement for the smaller but related Ford Bronco II. It is manufactured in Chicago, Illinois...
was introduced for the Expedition, albeit a much heavier-duty version with Expedition receiving its own heavy-duty transfer case
Transfer case
A transfer case is a part of a four-wheel-drive system found in four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles. The transfer case is connected to the transmission and also to the front and rear axles by means of drive shafts...
unit (BorgWarner model: 4406) designed for high torque
Torque
Torque, moment or moment of force , is the tendency of a force to rotate an object about an axis, fulcrum, or pivot. Just as a force is a push or a pull, a torque can be thought of as a twist....
output. The system included four modes: 2 High, Auto, 4 High (lock) and 4 Low (lock). 2 High mode and Auto mode with auto-lock wasn’t available on the Explorer’s system.
Engine choices consisted of a standard 4.6 liter Triton V8 or an optional 5.4 liter Triton V8. The first generation Expedition was rated as a Low Emission Vehicle (LEV). The latter engine combined with the heavy-duty trailer tow package and appropriate axle ratio can achieve a towing capacity of 8,100 lbs (3,674 kg).
Engine(s)
| Model Year | Type/model | HP | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| MY1997–1998 | 4.6 Liter (281 cu in) SOHC 16-valve Triton V8 gasoline Gasoline Gasoline , or petrol , is a toxic, translucent, petroleum-derived liquid that is primarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. It consists mostly of organic compounds obtained by the fractional distillation of petroleum, enhanced with a variety of additives. Some gasolines also contain... |
215 hp (160 kW) | 290 (lb-ft) |
| MY1997–1998 | 5.4 Liter (330 cu in) SOHC 16-valve Triton V8 gasoline Gasoline Gasoline , or petrol , is a toxic, translucent, petroleum-derived liquid that is primarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. It consists mostly of organic compounds obtained by the fractional distillation of petroleum, enhanced with a variety of additives. Some gasolines also contain... |
230 hp (172 kW) | 325 (lb-ft) |
| MY1999–2002 | 4.6 Liter (281 cu in) SOHC 16-valve Triton V8 gasoline Gasoline Gasoline , or petrol , is a toxic, translucent, petroleum-derived liquid that is primarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. It consists mostly of organic compounds obtained by the fractional distillation of petroleum, enhanced with a variety of additives. Some gasolines also contain... |
232 hp (173 kW) | 291 (lb-ft) |
| MY1999–2002 | 5.4 Liter (330 cu in) SOHC 16-valve Triton V8 gasoline Gasoline Gasoline , or petrol , is a toxic, translucent, petroleum-derived liquid that is primarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. It consists mostly of organic compounds obtained by the fractional distillation of petroleum, enhanced with a variety of additives. Some gasolines also contain... |
260 hp (194 kW) | 345 (lb-ft) |
Transmission(s)
| Model Year | Type/model |
|---|---|
| MY1997 | 4-speed E4OD automatic |
| MY1998–2002 | 4-speed 4R100 automatic |
| MY1997–2002 | 4-speed 4R70W automatic |
Safety and security
Initially, a 2-air bag supplementary restraint system (SRS) with 2-way occupant protection was standard on Expedition. The system included adaptive dual front air bags for front seat occupants. The air bags would adjust deployment force depending on crash severity. Other features also included SecuriLockSecuriLock
SecuriLock, also known as Passive Anti-Theft System , is Ford Motor Company's immobilizer technology. In 1996 it started showing up on select models of Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles...
with smart key and engine immobilizer, security approach lamps, 4-wheel ABS
Anti-lock braking system
An anti-lock braking system is a safety system that allows the wheels on a motor vehicle to continue interacting tractively with the road surface as directed by driver steering inputs while braking, preventing the wheels from locking up and therefore avoiding skidding.An ABS generally offers...
brakes, side intrusion door beams, post crash fuel pump shut-off and three-point safety belts for all rows of seating with tension and locking retractors.
An optional 4-air bag supplementary restraint system (SRS) with 4-way occupant protection became available for the 2000–2002 model years. Dual front seat side impact air bags were added (bundled with the ultrasonic rear park assist) for upper torso protection. The side impact air bags can be identified by an oval badge reading "Air bag" attached to the outboard front seat bolsters.
2002 model Expeditions introduced the BeltMinder system which would detect when the driver didn’t have his/her safety belt secured. An audible alarm would sound, in the form of a warning chime
Warning chime
A warning chime is a carillon-like sound, used in automobiles to warn about:* Handbrake in use while accelerator pedal is being pressed.* Ignition on/door open.* Low fuel level.* Proximity warning.* Seat belt not being utilised....
, until the driver’s safety belt was fastened.
| NHTSA National Highway Traffic Safety Administration The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is an agency of the Executive Branch of the U.S. government, part of the Department of Transportation... NCAP crash scores: |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| MY1997–2000 | MY2001–2002 | ||
| Frontal Driver: | Frontal Driver: | ||
| Frontal Passenger: | Frontal Passenger: | ||
| Side Driver: | Not tested | Side Driver: | Not tested |
| Side Rear Passenger: | Not tested | Side Rear Passenger: | Not tested |
| Rollover Resistance (RWD): | Not tested | Rollover Resistance (RWD): | |
| Rollover Resistance (4WD): | Not tested | Rollover Resistance (4WD): | |
1998
No major cosmetic or mechanical changes. A new exterior color was added, Wedgewood blue.1999
For the 1999 model year, the Expedition received a facelift very similar to that of the 1999 Ford F-150. Included in the update was a new front grille which now dropped lower in the center, grille work (that contained the Ford oval badge), as well as an all-new front bumper that now incorporated the fog lamps into the lower valance and larger center air intake. Both the 4.6 liter and 5.4 liter V8 engines received updates including more power and torque. The 2 High mode for ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive equipped Expeditions was dropped leaving only Auto, 4 High (lock) and 4 Low (lock) modes.2000
Available features on 2000 model Expeditions were expanded to include a hidden radio antenna (integrated into the rear quarter panel window glass) power adjustable accelerator and brake pedals, GentexGentex
Gentex Corporation manufactures automatic-dimming rear-view mirrors and camera-based driver assistance systems to the global automotive industry. The company also provides commercial smoke alarms and signaling devices to the North American fire protection market, as well as dimmable aircraft...
auto dimming electrochromatic rear view mirrors, rearward-facing lane departure/turning indicator lamps on side view mirrors and ultrasonic rear park assist /backup sensors. The lower front bumper valance and illuminated running boards were changed over to Arizona beige to complement the standard Arizona beige exterior body trim on Eddie Bauer models.The turn signal indicator was moved to the side of the mirror instead of before on the glass itself.
2001
New trim packages became available for Expedition XLT and Expedition Eddie Bauer models. XLT versions could be optioned with the XLT No Boundaries package which included monochromatic Solid black paint work with chrome grille and special alloy wheels. Eddie Bauer versions could be optioned with the Eddie Bauer Premier package which included either monochromatic Arizona beige or Solid black paint work with painted alloy wheels and upgraded premium leather seating.2002
No major cosmetic or mechanical changes. Last year model for the UN93. This was also the last model year for XLT No Boundaries and Eddie Bauer Premier trims.Second generation (2003–2006)
The redesigned second generation Ford Expedition was developed under the U222 program code name. The new Expedition was introduced in 2002 for the 2003 model year and featured an all-new 4-wheel independent suspension, becoming the first full-size body-on-frameBody-on-frame
Body-on-frame is an automobile construction method. Mounting a separate body to a rigid frame that supports the drivetrain was the original method of building automobiles, and its use continues to this day. The original frames were made of wood , but steel ladder frames became common in the 1930s...
sport utility vehicle to use a fully independent suspension system. The new multi-link independent rear suspension (IRS) reduced rear unsprung mass by 110 pounds, improving the suspension's wheel travel and ability to track uneven terrain and road surfaces for improved control and ride quality. The new IRS was perceived as being controversial by some at the time of its introduction. A misconception was that the Expedition’s towing and off road capabilities would be reduced, in comparison to the previous generation’s rear live axle
Live axle
A live axle, sometimes called a solid axle, is a type of beam axle suspension system that uses the driveshafts that transmit power to the wheels to connect the wheels laterally so that they move together as a unit....
. Nevertheless, the Expedition’s ground clearance improved by 1.4 inches for a total of 8.9 inches. Towing capacity increased by 800 lbs (363 kg) for a high towing capacity of 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg) when properly equipped with the appropriate axle ratio and heavy-duty trailer tow package. Payload capacity was increased up to 1,614 lbs (732 kg). Expedition also gained a hydroformed fully boxed frame providing a 70 percent improvement in torsional stiffness.
Along with the high towing capability came all-new steering, braking and electronic systems to help the Expedition better control and maneuver long heavy trailers. Adaptive variable assist power rack-and-pinion steering was introduced along with the largest brake rotors in the segment at that time (13 inches up front, 13.5 inches in back) with brake calipers 100 percent stiffer than the previous generation Expedition. The 4-speed 4R70W automatic transmission received all-new control software to allow the transmission to automatically adjust to the demands of towing, using new computer logic
Logic
In philosophy, Logic is the formal systematic study of the principles of valid inference and correct reasoning. Logic is used in most intellectual activities, but is studied primarily in the disciplines of philosophy, mathematics, semantics, and computer science...
that recognizes changes in load and road conditions.
2 High mode was reintroduced on the available ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive system with Auto, 4 High (lock) and 4 Low (lock) modes. The transfer case use in the first generation was replaced by an updated unit (BorgWarner model: 4416). A new dedicated microprocessor
Microprocessor
A microprocessor incorporates the functions of a computer's central processing unit on a single integrated circuit, or at most a few integrated circuits. It is a multipurpose, programmable device that accepts digital data as input, processes it according to instructions stored in its memory, and...
along with new control software were added allowing the system to detect different terrain
Terrain
Terrain, or land relief, is the vertical and horizontal dimension of land surface. When relief is described underwater, the term bathymetry is used...
and surface conditions to predict traction loss before it happened.
The V8 engines offered on the previous generation were carried over, but not without major changes and improvements. Both the 4.6 and 5.4 liter Triton V8 engines received further refinements in design and overall efficiency
Efficiency
Efficiency in general describes the extent to which time or effort is well used for the intended task or purpose. It is often used with the specific purpose of relaying the capability of a specific application of effort to produce a specific outcome effectively with a minimum amount or quantity of...
. Expedition qualified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle
Ultra Low Emission Vehicle
An ultra-low-emission vehicle is a motor vehicle that emits extremely low levels of motor vehicle emissions compared to other vehicles...
(ULEV) and was certified under the Environmental Protection Agency Tier 2 regulations one year earlier than required. The 4.6 liter engine received an all-new redesigned cast aluminium
Aluminium
Aluminium or aluminum is a silvery white member of the boron group of chemical elements. It has the symbol Al, and its atomic number is 13. It is not soluble in water under normal circumstances....
engine block optimized for weight reduction and NVH
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness
Noise, vibration, and harshness , also known as noise and vibration , is the study and modification of the noise and vibration characteristics of vehicles, particularly cars and trucks...
improvements. The 5.4 liter engine received an all-new redesigned cast iron
Iron
Iron is a chemical element with the symbol Fe and atomic number 26. It is a metal in the first transition series. It is the most common element forming the planet Earth as a whole, forming much of Earth's outer and inner core. It is the fourth most common element in the Earth's crust...
engine block with computer designed ribbing and bracing, along with thicker side skirts and reinforcement at the oil pan flange. The new engine block helped reduce engine vibration and unwanted noise while providing refined performance.
Both engines featured piston skirts coated with a teflon based friction reducing material, and fitted with low tension, low oil consumption rings. In addition, a new fail-safe cooling mode provided protection even in the case of a catastrophic coolant loss (such as a punctured radiator). In the event of coolant loss, the engine control unit shuts off fuel to alternate cylinders to reduce the risk of engine damage from overheating. The valves continue to operate, in order to pump cooling air through the cylinders. The cooling system was designed to maintain an ideal engine temperature even when subjected to a prolonged 15 percent gradient
Gradient
In vector calculus, the gradient of a scalar field is a vector field that points in the direction of the greatest rate of increase of the scalar field, and whose magnitude is the greatest rate of change....
in 46°C (115°F) weather. A returnless fuel supply system helped to reduce evaporative emissions by providing consistent pressure to the fuel injectors through a high-pressure pump.
New active hydraulic engine mounts were introduced to prevent the powertrain from inducing vibrations into the chassis. By optimizing these engine mounts the engine block can act as a mass damper, absorbing chassis resonance, improving ride comfort.
Expedition’s passenger cabin was better sealed than before, in an effort to eliminate intrusive outside noise from reaching the occupants. Wind, powertrain, road and vehicle body noise was reduced by improving interior acoustics
Acoustics
Acoustics is the interdisciplinary science that deals with the study of all mechanical waves in gases, liquids, and solids including vibration, sound, ultrasound and infrasound. A scientist who works in the field of acoustics is an acoustician while someone working in the field of acoustics...
through new damping
Damping
In physics, damping is any effect that tends to reduce the amplitude of oscillations in an oscillatory system, particularly the harmonic oscillator.In mechanics, friction is one such damping effect...
materials, a total of 10 shear-style isolating body mounts, heavier sealing of body and panels, redesigned rubber door seals, and extensive use of interior structural
Structure (disambiguation)
The structure of a thing is how the parts of it relate to each other, how it is "assembled".Structure may also refer to:* Architectural structure, a man-made structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or continuous occupancy...
acoustic foam in the upper B-pillars, upper and lower D-pillars and floor pan. Road noise was reduced by 2 decibels, body air leakage reduced by 56 percent, chances for sealant noise disturbances reduced from 15 percent to less than 0.5 percent and wind noise measured at 80 mph was reduced from 35 sones to a world class level of 29 sones.
The Expedition also received a thorough exterior and interior cosmetic redesign. Expedition featured an all-new front fascia, grille work, headlamps, body trim, rear fascia, tail lamps and liftgate. Interior fit & finish were improved with an all-new interior featuring new dash, door panels, genuine aluminium trim, and plush carpeting. Premium perforated leather
Leather
Leather is a durable and flexible material created via the tanning of putrescible animal rawhide and skin, primarily cattlehide. It can be produced through different manufacturing processes, ranging from cottage industry to heavy industry.-Forms:...
seating surfaces were standard on Expedition Eddie Bauer (optional on Expedition XLT). Expedition FX4 models featured all of Expedition's optional off road equipment as standard equipment. Expedition’s drag coefficient
Drag coefficient
In fluid dynamics, the drag coefficient is a dimensionless quantity that is used to quantify the drag or resistance of an object in a fluid environment such as air or water. It is used in the drag equation, where a lower drag coefficient indicates the object will have less aerodynamic or...
was 0.41 Cd.
Three row seating was standard with all-new manual fold-flat stow away third row seats. No longer did owners have to remove the third rows seats for more storage. The third row could simply "disappear" into the floor. Power assisted PowerFold fold-flat third row seating was available as an optional extra. Available features included in-dash CD-ROM
CD-ROM
A CD-ROM is a pre-pressed compact disc that contains data accessible to, but not writable by, a computer for data storage and music playback. The 1985 “Yellow Book” standard developed by Sony and Philips adapted the format to hold any form of binary data....
based navigation system
Navigation system
A navigation system is a system that aids is navigation. Navigation systems may be entirely on board a vehicle or vessel, or they may be located elsewhere and communicate via radio or other signals with a vehicle or vessel, or they may use a combination of these methods.Navigation systems may be...
, DVD
DVD
A DVD is an optical disc storage media format, invented and developed by Philips, Sony, Toshiba, and Panasonic in 1995. DVDs offer higher storage capacity than Compact Discs while having the same dimensions....
based rear entertainment system, ultrasonic rear park assist/back up sensors, power moon roof, power adjustable accelerator and brake pedals (introduced on the first generation Expedition), Gentex auto dimming electrochromatic rear view mirror, rearward-facing lane departure/turning indicator lamps on side view mirrors, second row captains chair luxury seating, premium Audiophile sound system with in-dash 6-disc CD changer and rear subwoofer
Subwoofer
A subwoofer is a woofer, or a complete loudspeaker, which is dedicated to the reproduction of low-pitched audio frequencies known as the "bass". The typical frequency range for a subwoofer is about 20–200 Hz for consumer products, below 100 Hz for professional live sound, and below...
and 4-wheel independent adaptive electronically controlled pneumatic suspension system.
Engine(s)
| Model Year | Type/model | HP | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| MY2003–2004 | 4.6 Liter (281 cu in) SOHC 16-valve Triton V8 gasoline Gasoline Gasoline , or petrol , is a toxic, translucent, petroleum-derived liquid that is primarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. It consists mostly of organic compounds obtained by the fractional distillation of petroleum, enhanced with a variety of additives. Some gasolines also contain... |
232 hp (173 kW) | 291 (lb-ft) |
| MY2003–2004 | 5.4 Liter (330 cu in) SOHC 16-valve Triton V8 gasoline Gasoline Gasoline , or petrol , is a toxic, translucent, petroleum-derived liquid that is primarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. It consists mostly of organic compounds obtained by the fractional distillation of petroleum, enhanced with a variety of additives. Some gasolines also contain... |
260 hp (194 kW) | 365 (lb-ft) |
| MY2005–2006 | 5.4 Liter (330 cu in) SOHC 24-valve VVT Variable valve timing In internal combustion engines, variable valve timing , also known as Variable valve actuation , is a generalized term used to describe any mechanism or method that can alter the shape or timing of a valve lift event within an internal combustion engine... Triton V8 gasoline Gasoline Gasoline , or petrol , is a toxic, translucent, petroleum-derived liquid that is primarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. It consists mostly of organic compounds obtained by the fractional distillation of petroleum, enhanced with a variety of additives. Some gasolines also contain... |
300 hp (223 kW) | 365 (lb-ft) |
Transmission(s)
| Model Year | Type/model |
|---|---|
| MY2003–2004 | 4-speed 4R70W automatic |
| MY2005–2006 | 4-speed 4R75E automatic |
Safety and security
Like the generation before, a 2-air bag supplementary restraint system (SRS) with 2-way occupant protection was standard on Expedition. Adaptive dual front air bags for front seat occupants now included the Personal Safety System (PSS). PSS would tailor air bag deployment for driver and first passenger and included occupant classification, seat position, crash severity, safety belt pretensioner, load limiting retractor and safety belt buckle usage sensors.An optional 4-air bag supplementary restraint system (SRS) with 6-way occupant protection was also available. This new protection system included the new SafetyCanopy head, upper torso and rollover protection side curtain air bags which would deploy along the A, B and C-pillars down to the vehicle’s belt line. SafetyCanopy could remain inflated after deployment for extended protection. SafetyCanopy replaced the front seat side impact air bags featured on the first generation Expedition.
Other features included side intrusion door beams, security approach lamps, SecuriLock
SecuriLock
SecuriLock, also known as Passive Anti-Theft System , is Ford Motor Company's immobilizer technology. In 1996 it started showing up on select models of Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles...
with smart key and engine immobilizer, BeltMinder, three-point safety belts for all rows of seating, post crash fuel pump shut-off, tire pressure monitoring system
Tire pressure monitoring system
-General:A Tire Pressure Monitoring System is a system designed to monitor the air pressure inside the pneumatic tires on various types of vehicles...
(TPMS) and 4-wheel ABS
Anti-lock braking system
An anti-lock braking system is a safety system that allows the wheels on a motor vehicle to continue interacting tractively with the road surface as directed by driver steering inputs while braking, preventing the wheels from locking up and therefore avoiding skidding.An ABS generally offers...
with electronic brakeforce distribution
Electronic brakeforce distribution
Electronic brakeforce distribution ', Electronic brakeforce limitation ' is an automobile brake technology that automatically varies the amount of force applied to each of a vehicle's brakes, based on road conditions, speed, loading, etc...
(EBD) and emergency brake assist
Emergency Brake Assist
Emergency Brake Assist is a safety system in motor vehicles designed to ensure maximum braking power is used in an emergency stop situation...
(EBA). AdvanceTrac was introduced as an optional extra and included both electronic traction control and electronic stability control (ESC). The electronic traction & stability mitigation system would expand to include roll stability control (RSC) for the 2005 model year.
| NHTSA National Highway Traffic Safety Administration The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is an agency of the Executive Branch of the U.S. government, part of the Department of Transportation... NCAP crash scores: |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| MY2003–2005 | MY2006 | ||
| Frontal Driver: | Frontal Driver: | ||
| Frontal Passenger: | Frontal Passenger: | ||
| Side Driver: | Not tested | Side Driver: | Not tested |
| Side Rear Passenger: | Not tested | Side Rear Passenger: | Not tested |
| Rollover Resistance (RWD): | Not tested | Rollover Resistance (RWD): | |
| Rollover Resistance (4WD): | Not tested | Rollover Resistance (4WD): | |
2003
Oddly, before the 2003 model year ended Ford updated the running boards on Expeditions equipped with the Eddie Bauer trim. Earlier in the model year, Eddie Bauer models had received standard black running boards. Toward the end of the model year, Arizona beige running boards were introduced to complement the Arizona beige body work which came standard on Eddie Bauer. Body colored running boards had previously been offered on the first generation Expedition from 2000 to 2002.2004
No major cosmetic or mechanical changes. The Expedition Eddie Bauer Premier model is reintroduced after being absent from the 2003 model trim line-up. Monochromatic paint work with blacked-out headlamps and special alloy wheels were standard on Eddie Bauer Premier versions. A new Expedition XLT Sport model is added with Dark Shadow grey exterior body trim. The FX4 trim level was renamed NBX.2005
Expedition received new roof rails which replaced the traditional sliding cross-bar roof racks. A new high end Limited trim level replaced the Eddie Bauer Premier model (though the regular Eddie Bauer was still available) and featured chrome accented roof rails, chrome-clad aluminium wheels, PowerFold power assisted stowable side view mirrors and chrome tipped exhaust. A upper high end King Ranch trim level with Castano leather seating was also introduced. The base 4.6 liter Triton V8 engine was dropped for the 2005 model year as the 5.4 liter Triton V8 was made standard on all Expeditions and updated with 24-valveMulti-valve
In automotive engineering a multi-valve or multivalve engine is one where each cylinder has more than two valves. A multi-valve engine has better breathing and can operate at higher revolutions per minute than a two-valve engine, delivering more power.- Multi-valve rationale :A multi-valve design...
technology and variable valve timing
Variable valve timing
In internal combustion engines, variable valve timing , also known as Variable valve actuation , is a generalized term used to describe any mechanism or method that can alter the shape or timing of a valve lift event within an internal combustion engine...
. Along with the 2005 model V8 engine update, the Expedition also received a significantly updated version of the 4-speed 4R70W automatic transmission.
The new 4-speed automatic transmission, now called 4R75E featured fully electronic Smart Shift technology. A turbine speed sensor
Sensor
A sensor is a device that measures a physical quantity and converts it into a signal which can be read by an observer or by an instrument. For example, a mercury-in-glass thermometer converts the measured temperature into expansion and contraction of a liquid which can be read on a calibrated...
improved transmission control and provided the basis for the fully electronic shift scheduling. The transmission's microprocessor
Microprocessor
A microprocessor incorporates the functions of a computer's central processing unit on a single integrated circuit, or at most a few integrated circuits. It is a multipurpose, programmable device that accepts digital data as input, processes it according to instructions stored in its memory, and...
speeds were improved for better responsiveness and precision of the control system. The transmission was continuously learning, and would calculate the torque in the next gear and schedule shift points based on the Expedition’s projected performance in the next gear. For 2005 model Expeditions the 4R75E transmission is designated by the letter "B" on the manufacturers safety compliance certification label, located in the driver’s side door jamb. For 2006 model Expeditions, the 4R75E transmission is designated by the letter "Q".
2006
No major cosmetic or mechanical changes. Last year model for the U222. The Gentex auto dimming rear view mirrors were updated. Two new exterior colors were added later on within the model year. They were Pewter metallic and Dark Copper metallic. Medium Flint grey interior was also added to Limited models later on within the model year. Chrome tipped exhaust was made standard on King Ranch models. 2006 would be the last year model for the NBX trim. The ultrasonic rear park assist and SafetyCanopy side curtain airbags were offered as standalone options.Russian Москва-Чукотка (Moscow-Chukotka) overland expedition
On April 12, 2006, three second generation Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer full-size sport utility vehicles successfully and autonomously completed a grueling 32 day off road overland expeditionExpedition
An expedition typically refers to a long journey or voyage undertaken for a specific purpose, often exploratory, scientific, geographic, military or political in nature...
. The heavy-duty 4×4s journeyed nearly 30,000 kilometres across North Asia
North Asia
North Asia or Northern Asia is a subregion of Asia, consisting of the Asian portion of Russia.The Phillips Illustrated Atlas of the World 1988 defines it as being most of the former USSR, the part that is to the east of the Ural Mountains...
, the arctic tundra
Tundra
In physical geography, tundra is a biome where the tree growth is hindered by low temperatures and short growing seasons. The term tundra comes through Russian тундра from the Kildin Sami word tūndâr "uplands," "treeless mountain tract." There are three types of tundra: Arctic tundra, alpine...
and at times, uncharted territory. The expedition team was made up of six members (two in each vehicle) which included the expedition leaders: Alexey Mikhailov and Alexander Borodin; technical director: Andrey Rodionov and professional off road drivers: Sergey Goryachev, Victor Parshikov and Alexey Simakin. The expeditionary trip was exactly 28,000 kilometres or about 17,398 miles round trip (there and back collectively). The planned route resulted in the SUVs primarily traveling on permafrost
Permafrost
In geology, permafrost, cryotic soil or permafrost soil is soil at or below the freezing point of water for two or more years. Ice is not always present, as may be in the case of nonporous bedrock, but it frequently occurs and it may be in amounts exceeding the potential hydraulic saturation of...
and herded
Herding
Herding is the act of bringing individual animals together into a group , maintaining the group and moving the group from place to place—or any combination of those. While the layperson uses the term "herding", most individuals involved in the process term it mustering, "working stock" or...
the Ford Expeditions across the Arctic Circle
Arctic Circle
The Arctic Circle is one of the five major circles of latitude that mark maps of the Earth. For Epoch 2011, it is the parallel of latitude that runs north of the Equator....
twice. The expeditionary team visited landmarks such as the spot where American aviator Carl Ben Eielson was lost, and the birthplace of Russian explorer Semyon Dezhnev
Semyon Dezhnev
Semyon Ivanovich Dezhnyov was a Russian explorer of Siberia and the first European to sail through the Bering Strait. In 1648 he sailed from the Kolyma River on the Arctic Ocean to the Anadyr River on the Pacific...
. The northern most point on the route was latitude 69°42′ North (Pevek
Pevek
Pevek is a town and Arctic port in Chaunsky District, part of the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia. After Anadyr and Bilibino it is the third largest town in Chukotka. Population: Municipally, the town is subordinated to Chaunsky Municipal district and together with Apapelgino and Yanranay, is...
). The eastern most point visited was longitude 169°40’ West (Cape Dezhnev
Cape Dezhnev
Cape Dezhnyov or Cape Dezhnev is a cape that forms the eastmost mainland point of Eurasia. It is located on the Chukchi Peninsula in the very thinly populated Chukotka Autonomous Okrug of Russia. This cape is located between the Bering Sea and the Chukchi Sea, across from Cape Prince of Wales in...
). The Ford Expeditions endured unforgiving terrain, constant frigid temperatures down to -36°C (-32°F), whiteouts
Whiteout (weather)
Whiteout is a weather condition in which visibility and contrast are severely reduced by snow or sand. The horizon disappears completely and there are no reference points at all, leaving the individual with a distorted orientation...
and a violent polar cyclone
Polar cyclone
Polar cyclones are low-pressure areas which strengthen in the winter and weaken in the summer...
that engulfed the expeditionary team toward the end of the expedition, resulting in the team stopping the vehicles. They remained inside the SUVs for protection during the storm’s nighttime onslaught as temperatures dropped and winds wailed against the vehicle windows. 200 kilograms (440 pounds) of snow were removed from each of the Ford Expeditions after the tail end of the storm swept across them again the following day.
The Ford Expeditions were off-the-shelf production versions equipped with the ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive system. Two of the SUVs were charged with towing dual axle utility trailers during the journey. The SUVs were lightly modified with front end guards along with front and rear utility bumpers, winches, safari roof racks, high-powered off road lights and extra belly plating for the engines. Because the trip would venture far from civilization, the vehicles were also equipped with gas stoves and high capacity auxiliary fuel tanks (mounted in the rear cargo bay) for when petrol/gas stations became nonexistent. The SUVs still retained their factory stock engines, transmissions, four-wheel-drive systems, suspensions, even their factory 17x7 alloy 5-spoke wheels. Two of the Ford Expeditions were equipped with caterpillar track
Caterpillar track
Continuous tracks or caterpillar tracks are a system of vehicle propulsion in which modular metal plates linked into a continuous band are driven by two or more wheels...
systems supplied by Mattracks. The rubber track systems were used when off road conditions became too demanding for conventional tread tires. Whether directly or non directly related, the rear stabilizer bar failed on the two Expeditions fitted with the Mattracks system. The problem was ruled most likely to be a combination of both overloading and extreme off road conditions. While the issue was fixed and the SUVs continued on with the expedition, the Mattracks however, continued to be problematic. The 5.4 liter Triton V8 engines were sometimes forced to run on poor-quality petrol/gas from unknown sources when high-quality fuel could not be found.
Third generation (2007–present)
The 2007 model year saw the introduction of a new third generation Expedition developed under the U324 program code name which was a heavily updated version of the second generation Expedition. Most of the improvements made to the new Expedition were mechanical in nature, though the SUV also received a sheet metal refresh, redesigned interior with upgraded materials and further fit & finish refinements. A new long wheelbase Expedition EL/Max was developed under the U354 program and was introduced as a replacement for the discontinued Ford Excursion.Expedition’s front end now featured Ford’s signature three-bar grille to complement the SUV's truck DNA
Introduction to genetics
Genetics is the study of genes, and tries to explain what they are and how they work. Genes are how living organisms inherit features from their ancestors; for example, children usually look like their parents because they have inherited their parents' genes...
relation to the F-150 and Super Duty pickups. New complex stepped style multifaceted headlamps, side view mirrors with updated LED
LEd
LEd is a TeX/LaTeX editing software working under Microsoft Windows. It is a freeware product....
lane departure/side turning indicator lamps, sleeker body work and redesigned tail lamps were also added. The interior received a new dash with F-150-like center stack, center console, redesigned first row captains chair luxury seating, door panels and interior trim. The column shifter was replaced by a floor shifter on the center console.
To further reduce outside noise intrusion for quieter, more isolated ride comfort, new SoundScreen laminated acoustic
Acoustics
Acoustics is the interdisciplinary science that deals with the study of all mechanical waves in gases, liquids, and solids including vibration, sound, ultrasound and infrasound. A scientist who works in the field of acoustics is an acoustician while someone working in the field of acoustics...
and solar tinted windshields/windscreens were added with thicker laminated side window glass.
Expedition gained a modified version of the half-ton P2 platform from the F-150, designated the T1 platform
Ford T platform
The Ford T platform is Ford Motor Company's large SUV automobile platform. It is based on the P2 platform used in the company's pickup trucks. It is available in rear wheel drive and all wheel drive with V8 engines.-T1:...
. This new platform provides 10 percent more torsional rigidity than the previous generation, and incorporates 4-wheel independent suspension (introduced on the second generation) with a redesigned five-link rear suspension and new lower control arms. As in previous years a 4-wheel independent adaptive electronically controlled pneumatic suspension system is available.
Additionally, the Expedition is powered by the same 5.4 liter Triton V8 engine
Internal combustion engine
The internal combustion engine is an engine in which the combustion of a fuel occurs with an oxidizer in a combustion chamber. In an internal combustion engine, the expansion of the high-temperature and high -pressure gases produced by combustion apply direct force to some component of the engine...
, rated at 300 hp and 365 lbf·ft (495 N·m) of torque from the previous generation. When properly equipped with the heavy-duty trailer tow package the SUV can tow up to 9,100 lbs (4,130 kg). Expedition is classed under the Tier 2, Bin 5 / ULEV 2 Ultra Low Emission Vehicle
Ultra Low Emission Vehicle
An ultra-low-emission vehicle is a motor vehicle that emits extremely low levels of motor vehicle emissions compared to other vehicles...
environmental classification.
Ford’s new 6-speed 6R75 automatic transmission with dual overdrive gears was introduced. The transmission featured push-button overdrive lock-out, electronic shift scheduling, adaptive shift algorithms and a mechatronic transmission control module (TCM) that would save adaptive shift data
Data (computing)
In computer science, data is information in a form suitable for use with a computer. Data is often distinguished from programs. A program is a sequence of instructions that detail a task for the computer to perform...
in keep alive memory (KAM). This safeguarded against complete data loss in case of a power failure (such as disconnecting the battery). In the event of a power failure, the mechatronic unit would simply read the last saved data entry from the system’s memory, thus, the transmission did not have to completely relearn
Learning
Learning is acquiring new or modifying existing knowledge, behaviors, skills, values, or preferences and may involve synthesizing different types of information. The ability to learn is possessed by humans, animals and some machines. Progress over time tends to follow learning curves.Human learning...
the owner’s driving style.
Off road geometry
Geometry
Geometry arose as the field of knowledge dealing with spatial relationships. Geometry was one of the two fields of pre-modern mathematics, the other being the study of numbers ....
figures for approach, departure and ramp breakover angles are 22°, 21° and 18° respectively. Minimum running ground clearance is 8.7 inches.
Selectable part-time/full-time ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive remains available with four modes; 2 High, Auto, 4 High (lock) and 4 Low (lock) as well as the electronically controlled infinitely variable locking center differential (multi-plate clutch system), multi-terrain 4-wheel electronic traction control and available off road under body protection. The system received an updated transfer case unit (BorgWarner model: 4417) and a new default off road program with throttle response recalibration, which is automatically activated when 4 Low mode is selected. Expedition can achieve an off road crawl ratio
Crawl ratio
Crawl ratio is a term used in the automotive world to describe the lowest gear ratio a vehicle is capable of. The crawl ratio of a vehicle is affected by the entire drive train, including transmission, overdrive differential and tires, and can vary greatly between automobiles.The lowest gear of...
of 41.06:1 with a low range ratio of 2.64:1 and rear axle ratio of 3.73:1.
The new SUV was unveiled at the Houston
Houston, Texas
Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States, and the largest city in the state of Texas. According to the 2010 U.S. Census, the city had a population of 2.1 million people within an area of . Houston is the seat of Harris County and the economic center of , which is the ...
Auto Show rather than at Detroit
North American International Auto Show
The North American International Auto Show is an annual auto show held in Detroit, Michigan at Cobo Center, usually in January. It is among the largest auto shows in North America.-History:...
, Los Angeles, or New York
New York International Auto Show
The New York International Auto Show is an annual auto show held in New York City in late March or early April. It is usually held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. It usually opens on or just before Easter weekend and closes on the first Sunday after Easter...
where most new models are, as 20 percent of all Expedition sales are in Texas
Texas
Texas is the second largest U.S. state by both area and population, and the largest state by area in the contiguous United States.The name, based on the Caddo word "Tejas" meaning "friends" or "allies", was applied by the Spanish to the Caddo themselves and to the region of their settlement in...
. The third generation Expedition went on sale in August 2006. The first 2007 Expedition to roll off a Ford assembly line was donated by Ford to the Peter family of Jamaica, Queens
Jamaica, Queens
Jamaica is a neighborhood in the borough of Queens in New York City, New York, United States. It was settled under Dutch rule in 1656 in New Netherland as Rustdorp. Under British rule, the Village of Jamaica became the center of the "Town of Jamaica"...
, New York
New York
New York is a state in the Northeastern region of the United States. It is the nation's third most populous state. New York is bordered by New Jersey and Pennsylvania to the south, and by Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont to the east...
as part of an episode of the ABC
American Broadcasting Company
The American Broadcasting Company is an American commercial broadcasting television network. Created in 1943 from the former NBC Blue radio network, ABC is owned by The Walt Disney Company and is part of Disney-ABC Television Group. Its first broadcast on television was in 1948...
series Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition is a reality television series providing home renovations for less fortunate families and community schools etc...
that aired May 7, 2006.
Engine(s)
| Model Year | Type/model | HP | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| MY2007–2008 | 5.4 Liter (330 cu in) SOHC 24-valve VVT Variable valve timing In internal combustion engines, variable valve timing , also known as Variable valve actuation , is a generalized term used to describe any mechanism or method that can alter the shape or timing of a valve lift event within an internal combustion engine... Triton V8 gasoline Gasoline Gasoline , or petrol , is a toxic, translucent, petroleum-derived liquid that is primarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. It consists mostly of organic compounds obtained by the fractional distillation of petroleum, enhanced with a variety of additives. Some gasolines also contain... |
300 hp (223 kW) | 365 (lb-ft) |
| MY2009–present | 5.4 Liter (330 cu in) SOHC 24-valve VVT Variable valve timing In internal combustion engines, variable valve timing , also known as Variable valve actuation , is a generalized term used to describe any mechanism or method that can alter the shape or timing of a valve lift event within an internal combustion engine... Triton V8 gasoline Gasoline Gasoline , or petrol , is a toxic, translucent, petroleum-derived liquid that is primarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. It consists mostly of organic compounds obtained by the fractional distillation of petroleum, enhanced with a variety of additives. Some gasolines also contain... /E85 E85 E85 is an abbreviation for an ethanol fuel blend of up to 85% denatured ethanol fuel and gasoline or other hydrocarbon by volume. E85 is commonly used by flex-fuel vehicles in the US, Canada, and Europe. Some of the benefits of E85 over conventional gasoline powered vehicles include the potential... ethanol Ethanol Ethanol, also called ethyl alcohol, pure alcohol, grain alcohol, or drinking alcohol, is a volatile, flammable, colorless liquid. It is a psychoactive drug and one of the oldest recreational drugs. Best known as the type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages, it is also used in thermometers, as a... |
310 hp (231 kW) | 365 (lb-ft) |
Transmission(s)
| Model Year | Type/model |
|---|---|
| MY2007–2008 | 6-speed 6R75 mechatronic automatic |
| MY2009–present | 6-speed 6R80 mechatronic automatic |
Luxury features
Available luxury features include: Premium Audiophile sound system with in dash six-disc CD changer, rear subwooferSubwoofer
A subwoofer is a woofer, or a complete loudspeaker, which is dedicated to the reproduction of low-pitched audio frequencies known as the "bass". The typical frequency range for a subwoofer is about 20–200 Hz for consumer products, below 100 Hz for professional live sound, and below...
, MP3
MP3
MPEG-1 or MPEG-2 Audio Layer III, more commonly referred to as MP3, is a patented digital audio encoding format using a form of lossy data compression...
device and iPod
IPod
iPod is a line of portable media players created and marketed by Apple Inc. The product line-up currently consists of the hard drive-based iPod Classic, the touchscreen iPod Touch, the compact iPod Nano, and the ultra-compact iPod Shuffle...
connectivity, SIRIUS XM satellite radio
Satellite radio
Satellite radio is an analogue or digital radio signal that is relayed through one or more satellites and thus can be received in a much wider geographical area than terrestrial FM radio stations...
, HomeLink wireless control system
HomeLink Wireless Control System
The HomeLink Wireless Control System is a radio frequency transmitter integrated into some automobiles that can be programmed to activate devices such as garage door openers, RF-controlled lighting, gates and locks, including those with rolling codes....
, tri zone automatic climate control for driver, first passenger and rear passengers, PowerFold power stow away side-view mirrors, PowerFold power fold flat third-row seating, Gentex
Gentex
Gentex Corporation manufactures automatic-dimming rear-view mirrors and camera-based driver assistance systems to the global automotive industry. The company also provides commercial smoke alarms and signaling devices to the North American fire protection market, as well as dimmable aircraft...
auto-dimming rear view mirror, adaptive pneumatic suspension system, power adjustable pedals, ultrasonic park assist, perforated leather seating, climate-controlled heated and cooled front captain's chairs with 10-way power adjust and memory, second-row captain's chair luxury seating, DVD
DVD
A DVD is an optical disc storage media format, invented and developed by Philips, Sony, Toshiba, and Panasonic in 1995. DVDs offer higher storage capacity than Compact Discs while having the same dimensions....
-based voice activated navigation system
Navigation system
A navigation system is a system that aids is navigation. Navigation systems may be entirely on board a vehicle or vessel, or they may be located elsewhere and communicate via radio or other signals with a vehicle or vessel, or they may use a combination of these methods.Navigation systems may be...
with liquid crystal touch display
Touchscreen
A touchscreen is an electronic visual display that can detect the presence and location of a touch within the display area. The term generally refers to touching the display of the device with a finger or hand. Touchscreens can also sense other passive objects, such as a stylus...
, power moon roof, slimline rear DVD-based entertainment system with flip down LCD screen, power-assisted liftgate
Liftgate
A liftgate, also called a hatch, hatchback or liftback, is a closure at the rear of a vehicle that can be mechanically raised during loading and unloading of cargo...
and 20-inch chrome-clad aluminium
Aluminium
Aluminium or aluminum is a silvery white member of the boron group of chemical elements. It has the symbol Al, and its atomic number is 13. It is not soluble in water under normal circumstances....
six-spoke wheels with Pirelli
Pirelli
Pirelli & C. SpA is a diverse multinational company based in Milan, Italy. The company, the world’s fifth largest tyre manufacturer, is present in over 160 countries, has 20 manufacturing sites around the world and a network of around 10,000 distributors and retailers.Founded in Milan in 1872,...
Scorpion all-season tires. Some of these features are available on Expedition XLT; many of them are included on Expedition Eddie Bauer and Expedition Limited.
Upgraded premium perforated leather seating, wood
Wood
Wood is a hard, fibrous tissue found in many trees. It has been used for hundreds of thousands of years for both fuel and as a construction material. It is an organic material, a natural composite of cellulose fibers embedded in a matrix of lignin which resists compression...
and leather
Leather
Leather is a durable and flexible material created via the tanning of putrescible animal rawhide and skin, primarily cattlehide. It can be produced through different manufacturing processes, ranging from cottage industry to heavy industry.-Forms:...
-wrapped steering wheel with audio, climate and cruise controls, interior ebony wood trim, stylized blacked-out stepped-style multifaceted headlamps and monochromatic paint finish with body-colored grille and chrome accenting are standard on the high end Expedition Limited.
Safety and security
Safety and security features continue to build from the first and second generations.A 6-air bag supplementary restraint system (SRS) with 10-way occupant protection is standard on Expedition. The system consists of adaptive dual front air bags with Personal Safety System (PSS) and SafetyCanopy head and rollover protection side curtain air bags. The SafetyCanopy air bag system was redesigned to include third row seating and features multi-chamber inflation, roll-fold technology and extended inflation after deployment. SafetyCanopy will deploy along the A, B, C and D-pillars
Pillar (car)
Pillars are the vertical supports of the greenhouse of an automobile — known respectively as the A, B, C or D-pillar moving in profile view from the front to rear....
down to the vehicle’s belt line. New dual front seat side impact air bags for dedicated upper torso protection were reintroduced, similar to the ones used on the first generation Expedition. The seat side air bags are denoted by a small identification tag reading "Air bag" stitched onto the outboard front seat bolsters.
Other safety features include side intrusion door beams, security approach lamps, SecuriLock
SecuriLock
SecuriLock, also known as Passive Anti-Theft System , is Ford Motor Company's immobilizer technology. In 1996 it started showing up on select models of Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles...
with smart key and engine immobilizer, BeltMinder, three-point safety belts for all rows of seating, post crash fuel pump shut-off, tire pressure monitoring system
Tire pressure monitoring system
-General:A Tire Pressure Monitoring System is a system designed to monitor the air pressure inside the pneumatic tires on various types of vehicles...
(TPMS), AdvanceTrac with roll stability control (RSC), and 4-wheel ABS
Anti-lock braking system
An anti-lock braking system is a safety system that allows the wheels on a motor vehicle to continue interacting tractively with the road surface as directed by driver steering inputs while braking, preventing the wheels from locking up and therefore avoiding skidding.An ABS generally offers...
with electronic brakeforce distribution
Electronic brakeforce distribution
Electronic brakeforce distribution ', Electronic brakeforce limitation ' is an automobile brake technology that automatically varies the amount of force applied to each of a vehicle's brakes, based on road conditions, speed, loading, etc...
(EBD) and emergency brake assist
Emergency Brake Assist
Emergency Brake Assist is a safety system in motor vehicles designed to ensure maximum braking power is used in an emergency stop situation...
(EBA). 911 Assist, perimeter alarm and SOS Post-Crash Alert features were added for 2009-onward models.
SOS Post-Crash Alert will activate the Expedition’s horn and continuously flash the hazard/caution lights as well as the lane departure/turning indicator lamps on the side view mirrors after a collision
Collision
A collision is an isolated event which two or more moving bodies exert forces on each other for a relatively short time.Although the most common colloquial use of the word "collision" refers to accidents in which two or more objects collide, the scientific use of the word "collision" implies...
.
911 Assist system will be ready to assist in placing a call to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of air bag deployment. When a phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC (which happens every time the driver enters the vehicle with his/her cell phone), 911 Assist will provide a 10 second window to allow the driver or passenger to decide whether to cancel the call. If not manually cancelled within the 10 second window, 911 Assist will place the emergency call. A pre-recorded message will play when the call is answered, occupants in the Expedition will then be able to communicate directly with the 911 operator. Once the call is connected, 911 operators can respond to the situation exactly as they would with any 911 call. Emergency services can even determine the medical priority and dispatch the appropriate assistance based on the situation. If vehicle occupants are non-responsive, for example, the location of the vehicle can be determined through voice signal triangulation or by phones with a GPS location feature.
| NHTSA National Highway Traffic Safety Administration The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is an agency of the Executive Branch of the U.S. government, part of the Department of Transportation... NCAP crash scores: |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| MY2007 | MY2008–present | ||
| Frontal Driver: | Frontal Driver: | ||
| Frontal Passenger: | Frontal Passenger: | ||
| Side Driver: | Not tested | Side Driver: | |
| Side Rear Passenger: | Not tested | Side Rear Passenger: | |
| Rollover Resistance (RWD): | Not tested | Rollover Resistance (RWD): | |
| Rollover Resistance (4WD): | Not tested | Rollover Resistance (4WD): | |
2008
For the 2008 model year, power deployable/retractable running boards became available, along with a rear view backup camera system. The camera, which is mounted under the Expedition’s center liftgate appliqué, utilizes the GentexGentex
Gentex Corporation manufactures automatic-dimming rear-view mirrors and camera-based driver assistance systems to the global automotive industry. The company also provides commercial smoke alarms and signaling devices to the North American fire protection market, as well as dimmable aircraft...
auto dimming rear view mirror’s picture-in-mirror technology to display what it sees. Expedition King Ranch was also reintroduced after being absent from the 2007 model year trim line-up. Expedition XLT models now get body colored lower body work, replacing the previous black plastic trim.
2009
In July 2008, Ford's Wayne, Michigan plant started production on the 2009 models until December 2008. In January 2009 production of the Expedition was relocated to the Kentucky Truck AssemblyKentucky Truck Assembly
Kentucky Truck Plant is an automobile manufacturing plant owned by Ford Motor Company in Louisville, Kentucky. The plant on opened in 1969 and currently employs 5,154 people total. It is located at 3001 Chamberlain Lane in the Northeast corner of the city...
in Louisville along with its sister SUV, the Lincoln Navigator
Lincoln Navigator
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV built by the Ford Motor Company for its luxury division, Lincoln. Introduced as a 1998 model, production began May 14, 1997 with sales beginning in August. The Navigator was Lincoln's first SUV as well as its first four-wheel drive capable vehicle...
, and the Ford F-Series
Ford F-Series
The F-Series is a series of full-size pickup trucks from Ford Motor Company which has been sold continuously for over six decades. The most popular variant of the F-Series is the F-150...
Super Duty. That plant used to build the Ford Excursion until 2005.
Expedition's 6-speed 6R75 automatic was replaced by an improved version, the 6-speed 6R80 automatic. 6R80 features more robust internals, new software logic and a tow/haul mode (replaces the overdrive lock-out) that utilizes new uphill/downhill gradient shift logic for improved performance while towing or hauling heavy loads. The 6-speed automatic can compensate for altitude
Altitude
Altitude or height is defined based on the context in which it is used . As a general definition, altitude is a distance measurement, usually in the vertical or "up" direction, between a reference datum and a point or object. The reference datum also often varies according to the context...
, grade/slope and present load conditions. The system also reduces the transmission’s tendency to "hunt" for the right gear(s) and provides engine braking when descending hills. The front bench seating option has been discontinued for the 2009 model year, and the chrome "Expedition" name plate badges have been removed from the left and right front doors. The chrome "Expedition" name plate badge on the rear liftgate remains.
Additional features included the now standard FlexFuel capability
Flexible-fuel vehicle
A flexible-fuel vehicle or dual-fuel vehicle is an alternative fuel vehicle with an internal combustion engine designed to run on more than one fuel, usually gasoline blended with either ethanol or methanol fuel, and both fuels are stored in the same common tank...
, which can take gasoline, E85
E85
E85 is an abbreviation for an ethanol fuel blend of up to 85% denatured ethanol fuel and gasoline or other hydrocarbon by volume. E85 is commonly used by flex-fuel vehicles in the US, Canada, and Europe. Some of the benefits of E85 over conventional gasoline powered vehicles include the potential...
(85% ethanol/15% gasoline), or any combination of the two, and the newly installed EasyFuel capless fuel-filler system. The 5.4 liter V8/FlexFuel feature also upgraded its torque power to 310 hp and 365 lb-ft. The 2009 model year also boosted its maximum towing capacity to 9200 lbs for the 4x2 version, and up to 9000 lbs for the 4×4 version.
The new entertainment features added to the 2009 model year included the optional Ford SYNC
Ford Sync
Ford SYNC is a factory-installed, integrated in-vehicle communications and entertainment system that allows users to make hands-free telephone calls and control music and other functions using voice commands...
, and an all-new DVD-based voice-activated, multi-entertainment/navigational system
In car entertainment
In-Car Entertainment, , is a collection of hardware devices installed into automobiles, or other forms of transportation, to provide audio and/or audio/visual entertainment, as well as automotive navigation systems...
with liquid crystal touch display. The rearview camera system is now integrated to show the video feed through the navigation screen instead for the rearview mirror, however, the rearview mirror is still used to show images on Expedition’s not equipped with the navigation system. The new navigation system features up to 10 gigabytes of storage space for more than 2400 songs, a jukebox function, a screened photo display, iPod
IPod
iPod is a line of portable media players created and marketed by Apple Inc. The product line-up currently consists of the hard drive-based iPod Classic, the touchscreen iPod Touch, the compact iPod Nano, and the ultra-compact iPod Shuffle...
/Zune
Zune
Zune is a digital media brand owned by Microsoft which includes a line of portable media players, a digital media player software for Windows machines, a music subscription service known as a 'Zune Music Pass', music and video streaming for the Xbox 360 via the Zune Software, music, TV and movie...
capability for downloading and recharging, ripping CDs, and integrated compatibility for cellphones and Bluetooth; the newly compatible Sirius Travel Link, which allow drivers to access traffic, weather, sports, and local movie listings; and a "Route Guidance" mode for road and street information. The steering wheel also has a tilt feature and radio controls, including Ford SYNC buttons, allowing the driver to press the button and use voice commands to activate the system, which became standard on Eddie Bauer, Limited, and King Ranch. The tilt w/radio control feature was optional on the XLT during its Wayne plant built orders, but after production moved to Louisville it became standard. For accessory purposes, a HD radio can be installed upon request at a Ford dealership in the United States.
2010
No major cosmetic or mechanical changes. For the 2010 model year optional packages have now been renamed (to Rapid Specificated Order Codes) and upgraded (100s for XLT, 200s for Eddie Bauer, 300s for Limited, 400s for King Ranch) for the newer models. It has also announced that the 2010 models will now feature Ford's MyKey and trailer sway control as a standard on all trims. The 2010 models were ranked 6th among the top 11 affordable large size SUVs in "US News & World Report. There was talk about making a diesel version of the Expedition for the 2010 model year, but never made it to the planning stage. Rain-sensing windshield wipers were added as an optional extra for Eddie Bauer but standard on the Limited and King Ranch versions.2011
No major cosmetic or mechanical changes. HD RadioHD Radio
HD Radio, which originally stood for "Hybrid Digital", is the trademark for iBiquity's in-band on-channel digital radio technology used by AM and FM radio stations to transmit audio and data via a digital signal in conjunction with their analog signals...
will now become a standard on all trims, including the navigation system, along with a dual DVD system that is now placed at the headrest area. Another change that was made was in the entry-level trim department, with the Expedition now offered in the newly designated standard XL entry level with lower black cladding, while the XLT level trim was upgraded along with a new XLT Premium trim with gold cladding, replacing the Eddie Bauer level trim. Also, silver cladding will be featured as an exterior trim as part of a newly optional XLT Premium Sport Appearance Package. Both Limited and King Ranch levels remain the same.
2012
No major cosmetic or mechanical changes. The second heated row seating option was added to XLT Premium and the front park assists became a standard feature on the Limited and King Ranch trims.Expedition EL / Max
For 2007, an extended-wheelbase version of the Expedition called the Expedition EL (for "extended length") was introduced in the United States. In Canada and Mexico it is badged as a Expedition Max because of confusion with the CanadaCanada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
-sold Acura EL
Acura EL
Introduced in 1997, the Acura EL was a rebadged Japanese Honda Domani for the Canadian market, sold as a compact entry-level luxury car . It replaced the Integra sedan in the Canadian lineup, while the Integra sedan continued to be sold in the United States until 2001. The Acura EL remained...
, which was replaced in 2005 by the Acura CSX
Acura CSX
The Acura CSX, or Honda Civic for the Japanese domestic market , is Acura's entry-level luxury car exclusively designed for the Canadian market. The CSX is the first Acura model with two predecessors, the Integra sedan and the EL...
(The Expedition Max name continues to be used in Canada). At first it was supposed to be called the Everest but Ford changed their minds at the last minute. However, Ford now uses the Everest
Ford Everest
The Ford Everest is a midsize SUV produced by Ford since 2003. Everest is a five-door wagon variant of the Ford Ranger four-door utility. The Everest is known as the Ford Endeavour in the Indian market....
name for its SUVs in Asia. As with the standard size Expedition, the EL/Max version continued to have the same features from the 2007 to 2011 model year, but for the 2012 model year it added a cargo organizer as an exclusive feature.
The EL/Max replaced the discontinued Excursion
Ford Excursion
The Ford Excursion is a full-size sport utility vehicle that was produced by the Ford Motor Company between model years 2000 and 2005 . Based on the Super Duty pickup truck platform, it served as Ford's largest SUV in its lineup during the tenure of its production and mainly competed against the...
and is expected to compete more effectively with the Chevrolet Suburban/GMC Yukon XL. While both GM and Ford vehicles are similar in size (as both Suburban/Yukon XL 1500s and EL vehicles are packaged as half-tons), there is a difference in the pricing range, as the sale price for the EL model Expedition is lower than the sale price of the Suburban/Yukon XL's. Another difference is that while Chevrolet and GMC offer different engine sizes for their Suburban/Yukon XL models (5.3L, 6.0L and 6.2L), the EL/Max only comes with a 5.4L/V8 engine, just like its standard-size sibling and does not have a 3/4 ton version like the Suburban/Yukon XL has.
Outside North America
North America
North America is a continent wholly within the Northern Hemisphere and almost wholly within the Western Hemisphere. It is also considered a northern subcontinent of the Americas...
, including the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico , officially the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico , is an unincorporated territory of the United States, located in the northeastern Caribbean, east of the Dominican Republic and west of both the United States Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands.Puerto Rico comprises an...
, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam
Guam
Guam is an organized, unincorporated territory of the United States located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is one of five U.S. territories with an established civilian government. Guam is listed as one of 16 Non-Self-Governing Territories by the Special Committee on Decolonization of the United...
, the Expedition EL is also imported to and sold in the Middle East
Middle East
The Middle East is a region that encompasses Western Asia and Northern Africa. It is often used as a synonym for Near East, in opposition to Far East...
and the Philippines
Philippines
The Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
, where in the latter the EL version is the only type of Expedition that is imported and sold there. Ironically, the Philippines is also where Ford also sells the Everest SUV.
The Expedition EL is about 15.8 in (40 cm) longer than the standard Expedition for a total of approximately 222 in (18.5 feet or 563 cm), and has a 131 in (333 cm) wheelbase, producing 24 ft³ of additional cargo space over the standard 119 in (302 cm) wheelbase model. The EL/Max versions also carries the same updated (2007–present) features as noted above, save for the Eddie Bauer version (18" machine-aluminum wheels). And while they are larger in size, its maximum towing capacity is 8900 lbs on the 4x2 version and 8700 lbs on the 4×4 version, about 300 lbs short of the regular sized Expedition. They also received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA. The Expedition EL was also ranked 9th among the top 15 "Best Family Haulers", according to a June 2009 consumers favorite survey conducted by Edmunds.
Just like the standard sized Expedition, the Expedition EL originally came in 4 trim lines: XLT, Eddie Bauer, Limited and the King Ranch series during the 2007-2010 model year. After the 2011 model year was introduced, the trims expanded to 5, with the XLT and XLT Premium levels replacing the Eddie Bauer level and the newly designated standard XL entry level taking the XLT's place. The Expedition EL can be distinguished by its longer rear-quarter windows and the aft wheel well trim not cutting into the rear passenger doors.
Availability
The standard size Expedition are sold in the United StatesUnited States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
, Canada
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
, Mexico
Mexico
The United Mexican States , commonly known as Mexico , is a federal constitutional republic in North America. It is bordered on the north by the United States; on the south and west by the Pacific Ocean; on the southeast by Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea; and on the east by the Gulf of...
, the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico , officially the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico , is an unincorporated territory of the United States, located in the northeastern Caribbean, east of the Dominican Republic and west of both the United States Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands.Puerto Rico comprises an...
, American Samoa
American Samoa
American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of the sovereign state of Samoa...
, the CMNI, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam
Guam
Guam is an organized, unincorporated territory of the United States located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is one of five U.S. territories with an established civilian government. Guam is listed as one of 16 Non-Self-Governing Territories by the Special Committee on Decolonization of the United...
, the Philippines
Philippines
The Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
, the Middle East
Middle East
The Middle East is a region that encompasses Western Asia and Northern Africa. It is often used as a synonym for Near East, in opposition to Far East...
, Central America
Central America
Central America is the central geographic region of the Americas. It is the southernmost, isthmian portion of the North American continent, which connects with South America on the southeast. When considered part of the unified continental model, it is considered a subcontinent...
, the Caribbean, South America
South America
South America is a continent situated in the Western Hemisphere, mostly in the Southern Hemisphere, with a relatively small portion in the Northern Hemisphere. The continent is also considered a subcontinent of the Americas. It is bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean and on the north and east...
(except Argentina
Argentina
Argentina , officially the Argentine Republic , is the second largest country in South America by land area, after Brazil. It is constituted as a federation of 23 provinces and an autonomous city, Buenos Aires...
, Brazil
Brazil
Brazil , officially the Federative Republic of Brazil , is the largest country in South America. It is the world's fifth largest country, both by geographical area and by population with over 192 million people...
and Venezuela
Venezuela
Venezuela , officially called the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela , is a tropical country on the northern coast of South America. It borders Colombia to the west, Guyana to the east, and Brazil to the south...
), Asia
Asia
Asia is the world's largest and most populous continent, located primarily in the eastern and northern hemispheres. It covers 8.7% of the Earth's total surface area and with approximately 3.879 billion people, it hosts 60% of the world's current human population...
(Cambodia
Cambodia
Cambodia , officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a country located in the southern portion of the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia...
, Laos
Laos
Laos Lao: ສາທາລະນະລັດ ປະຊາທິປະໄຕ ປະຊາຊົນລາວ Sathalanalat Paxathipatai Paxaxon Lao, officially the Lao People's Democratic Republic, is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, bordered by Burma and China to the northwest, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south and Thailand to the west...
, Mongolia
Mongolia
Mongolia is a landlocked country in East and Central Asia. It is bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south, east and west. Although Mongolia does not share a border with Kazakhstan, its western-most point is only from Kazakhstan's eastern tip. Ulan Bator, the capital and largest...
and South Korea
South Korea
The Republic of Korea , , is a sovereign state in East Asia, located on the southern portion of the Korean Peninsula. It is neighbored by the People's Republic of China to the west, Japan to the east, North Korea to the north, and the East China Sea and Republic of China to the south...
), Africa
Africa
Africa is the world's second largest and second most populous continent, after Asia. At about 30.2 million km² including adjacent islands, it covers 6% of the Earth's total surface area and 20.4% of the total land area...
(Algeria
Algeria
Algeria , officially the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria , also formally referred to as the Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria, is a country in the Maghreb region of Northwest Africa with Algiers as its capital.In terms of land area, it is the largest country in Africa and the Arab...
, Angola
Angola
Angola, officially the Republic of Angola , is a country in south-central Africa bordered by Namibia on the south, the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the north, and Zambia on the east; its west coast is on the Atlantic Ocean with Luanda as its capital city...
, Cape Verde
Cape Verde
The Republic of Cape Verde is an island country, spanning an archipelago of 10 islands located in the central Atlantic Ocean, 570 kilometres off the coast of Western Africa...
, Egypt
Egypt
Egypt , officially the Arab Republic of Egypt, Arabic: , is a country mainly in North Africa, with the Sinai Peninsula forming a land bridge in Southwest Asia. Egypt is thus a transcontinental country, and a major power in Africa, the Mediterranean Basin, the Middle East and the Muslim world...
, Gabon
Gabon
Gabon , officially the Gabonese Republic is a state in west central Africa sharing borders with Equatorial Guinea to the northwest, Cameroon to the north, and with the Republic of the Congo curving around the east and south. The Gulf of Guinea, an arm of the Atlantic Ocean is to the west...
, Ghana
Ghana
Ghana , officially the Republic of Ghana, is a country located in West Africa. It is bordered by Côte d'Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south...
, Libya
Libya
Libya is an African country in the Maghreb region of North Africa bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, Egypt to the east, Sudan to the southeast, Chad and Niger to the south, and Algeria and Tunisia to the west....
, Madagascar
Madagascar
The Republic of Madagascar is an island country located in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern coast of Africa...
, Morocco
Morocco
Morocco , officially the Kingdom of Morocco , is a country located in North Africa. It has a population of more than 32 million and an area of 710,850 km², and also primarily administers the disputed region of the Western Sahara...
, Nigeria
Nigeria
Nigeria , officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a federal constitutional republic comprising 36 states and its Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The country is located in West Africa and shares land borders with the Republic of Benin in the west, Chad and Cameroon in the east, and Niger in...
and Senegal
Senegal
Senegal , officially the Republic of Senegal , is a country in western Africa. It owes its name to the Sénégal River that borders it to the east and north...
), and Europe
Europe
Europe is, by convention, one of the world's seven continents. Comprising the westernmost peninsula of Eurasia, Europe is generally 'divided' from Asia to its east by the watershed divides of the Ural and Caucasus Mountains, the Ural River, the Caspian and Black Seas, and the waterways connecting...
(Armenia
Armenia
Armenia , officially the Republic of Armenia , is a landlocked mountainous country in the Caucasus region of Eurasia...
, Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan , officially the Republic of Kazakhstan, is a transcontinental country in Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Ranked as the ninth largest country in the world, it is also the world's largest landlocked country; its territory of is greater than Western Europe...
, and Kyrgystan).
For the Expedition EL/Max, all five versions (XL, XLT/Eddie Bauer, XLT Platinum, Limited and King Ranch) are available in the United States. From the 2007 to 2010 model years, The EL/Max level trims were limited to only 3 versions for Canada and The Middle East, two for Mexico, and one for the Philippines. Canada's Expedition Max offered the Eddie Bauer, Limited and King Ranch trims, Mexico's Expedition Max in Limited and King Ranch trims, and the Middle East's EL level trims in XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited. The Philippines' lone Expedition EL level trim was the Eddie Bauer model from 2007 to 2010. After the 2011 model year Ford made changes in the international exportation of the EL/Max trims. As a result of the changes, the Limited trim became the only version available in Canada and Mexico as Eddie Bauer (in Canada) and King Ranch trims (in both Canada and Mexico) were discontinued, while the Philippines and the Middle East replaced the Eddie Bauer with the XLT trim. The Middle East also started to get all of the 5 US level base trims, including the new XL trims that took the XLT's place and the King Ranch trim.
Four-wheel-drive system
Selectable part-time/full-time Control TracControl Trac
ControlTrac four-wheel-drive is the brand name of a selectable part-time/full-time four-wheel-drive system offered by Ford Motor Company. The four-wheel-drive system was designed and developed at BorgWarner in the mid 1980s. BorgWarner calls the system torque-on-demand...
four wheel drive designed by BorgWarner
BorgWarner
BorgWarner Inc. is a United States-based worldwide automotive industry components and parts supplier. It is primarily known for its powertrain products, which include manual and automatic transmissions and transmission components, , turbochargers, engine valve timing system...
is standard on all 4WD Expeditions. There are four modes: 2 High mode, Auto mode, 4 High mode and 4 Low mode. Each mode can be selected via a rotary control dial on the dash.
The Expedition's system uses a heavy-duty two-speed BorgWarner transfer case
Transfer case
A transfer case is a part of a four-wheel-drive system found in four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles. The transfer case is connected to the transmission and also to the front and rear axles by means of drive shafts...
with a software-controlled infinitely-variable electromagnetic multi-plate clutch pack locking center differential. The 4×4 system does not use a conventional planetary or bevel
Bevel gear
Bevel gears are gears where the axes of the two shafts intersect and the tooth-bearing faces of the gears themselves are conically shaped.Bevel gears are most often mounted on shafts that are 90 degrees apart, but can be designed to work at other angles as well...
geared center differential, which are typically found in traditional full-time 4WD systems where torque is permanently supplied to all four wheels, all the time.
Below is the operational behavior mode-by-mode for the current version of ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive used in the third generation (2007–present) Expedition.
Note that older versions still work in similar fashion, but will not be equipped with default off road program/throttle control recalibration and may not be equipped with AdvanceTrac.
| Selectable part-time/full-time ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive | ||
|---|---|---|
| Mode | Drive type | Operation |
| 2 High (2H) | Rear-wheel-drive | Torque is routed to the rear wheels only, with high range gearing. Imitates rear-wheel-drive and is more economical for on road driving. |
| Auto (4A) | All-wheel-drive (unlocked, variable) |
Software does all the work. All 100 percent of the engine’s torque is sent rearward until traction loss is anticipated or detected. The infinitely variable center multi-plate clutch differential can redirect any percentage of supplied torque to the front drive wheels while still allowing the front and rear drive shafts to turn at different rotational speeds. If a complete mismanagement of the engine’s power is detected at the rear wheels due to traction loss, all 100 percent of the engine’s torque can be sent forward until the rear drive wheels regain traction. High range gearing is used. For use in all-weather Weather Weather is the state of the atmosphere, to the degree that it is hot or cold, wet or dry, calm or stormy, clear or cloudy. Most weather phenomena occur in the troposphere, just below the stratosphere. Weather refers, generally, to day-to-day temperature and precipitation activity, whereas climate... on road (dry, wet or slippery pavement) conditions or light off road conditions. |
| 4 High (4H) | 4-wheel-drive (locked) |
Infinitely variable center multi-plate clutch differential is locked providing a continuous fixed 50/50 torque distribution. The front and rear drive shafts are mechanically locked together forcing them to turn together with absolute zero rotational speed difference. Front drive wheels pull Pull A pull is a force that acts in the direction of the origin of the force.Pull may also refer to:* Muscle pull, a strain injury* Drawer pull* Pull , impression from a handstamp or die- Sports :... at the same rate the rear drive wheels push Push -Music:* Push , an album by Bros* Push , a Belgian disc jockey born Mike Dierickx* Push , an album by Gruntruck* "Push" , a song by Enrique Iglesias... , working in concert to move the vehicle. High range gearing is used. Not for use on pavement, only for off road conditions. If 4 High mode is used on pavement, torque windup and drivetrain binding can occur resulting in catastrophic Catastrophic failure A catastrophic failure is a sudden and total failure of some system from which recovery is impossible. Catastrophic failures often lead to cascading systems failure.... driveline failure. |
| 4 Low (4L) | 4-wheel-drive (locked) |
Similar to 4 High mode in operation, the fixed 50/50 torque distribution is maintained; however, low range off road reduction gearing is engaged. Power is sent through another set of gears. The electronic throttle control Electronic throttle control Electronic throttle control is an automobile technology which severs the mechanical link between the accelerator pedal and the throttle. Most automobiles already use a throttle position sensor to provide input to traction control, antilock brakes, fuel injection, and other systems, but use a... is recalibrated via a default off road program. Throttle response is attuned for more precise torque management in off road conditions. AdvanceTrac is partially shutdown, electronic stability control Electronic stability control Electronic stability control is a computerized technology that may potentially improve the safety of a vehicle's stability by detecting and minimizing skids. When ESC detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go... (ESC) and roll stability control (RSC) safety systems are disabled so they do not interfere while the SUV is off road. 4-wheel electronic traction control will continue to function as normal. Not for use on pavement, only for off road conditions. If 4 Low mode is used on pavement, torque windup and drivetrain binding can occur resulting in catastrophic Catastrophic failure A catastrophic failure is a sudden and total failure of some system from which recovery is impossible. Catastrophic failures often lead to cascading systems failure.... driveline failure. |
4WD Expeditions come with standard dual front-frame-mounted closed-loop recovery hooks and available off-road under-body protection. Steel plates are placed over vital areas with a composite shield for the fuel tank. Expedition 4×4s are tested along side the F-150 and Super Duty trucks at Ford’s California
California
California is a state located on the West Coast of the United States. It is by far the most populous U.S. state, and the third-largest by land area...
and Arizona
Arizona
Arizona ; is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States. It is also part of the western United States and the mountain west. The capital and largest city is Phoenix...
proving grounds
Ford Proving Grounds
Ford Motor Company operates several proving grounds worldwide, for development and validation testing of new vehicles.For Ford/Mazda Proving Grounds in Japan see Mazda Proving Grounds- - Wittmann, Arizona:Latitude and Longitude: The opened in 1985...
. Expedition is put through the same durability tests and evaluations to meet the same durability standards as its pickup truck brethren.
Traction assist
Ford Expeditions, whether they are rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive come from the factory with standard open type differentials with a choice of axle ratios. They are non limited-slip and non locking. Traction assist systems, both mechanical and electronic, were offered as options if needed. Only until recently has traction assist become standard on all Expeditions.Mechanical traction assist (1997–2006)
First and second generation Ford Expeditions were offered with an optional heavy-duty rear limited-slip differential (LSD) with a choice of axle ratios. A clutch pack inside the rear limited-slip differential would engage to transfer torque between the axle shafts to whichever rear drive wheel had better traction. The front differential on four-wheel-drive models was still an open type differential with no way to control wayward torque flow caused by traction loss. This problem was remedied with the arrival of AdvanceTrac for the 2003 model year. 2006 was the last model year for the optional rear LSD.
Electronic traction assist (2003–present)
Second and third generation Ford Expeditions were offered with AdvanceTrac, Ford’s electronic traction & stability mitigation system. Introduced as an optional extra on the second generation Expedition, AdvanceTrac was made standard equipment on all third generation Expeditions. 4-wheel electronic traction control
Traction control
A traction control system , also known as anti-slip regulation , is typically a secondary function of the anti-lock braking system on production motor vehicles, designed to prevent loss of traction of driven road wheels...
is included as part of the AdvanceTrac system for four-wheel-drive Expeditions. Rear-wheel-drive Expeditions only receive 2-wheel electronic traction control. The traction control system is programmed for on road and off road use with multi-terrain capability. 4-wheel electronic traction control initiates an ABS
Anti-lock braking system
An anti-lock braking system is a safety system that allows the wheels on a motor vehicle to continue interacting tractively with the road surface as directed by driver steering inputs while braking, preventing the wheels from locking up and therefore avoiding skidding.An ABS generally offers...
brake apply and release cycle on any drive wheel which has lost traction. The ABS brakes clamp down on the slipping (spinning) drive wheel(s) and then release all in fractions of a second, causing the drive wheel(s) to slow down. Simultaneously, the repeated braking also causes resistance forcing the differential to transfer more torque
Torque
Torque, moment or moment of force , is the tendency of a force to rotate an object about an axis, fulcrum, or pivot. Just as a force is a push or a pull, a torque can be thought of as a twist....
to the opposing drive wheel with better traction. The four-wheel enabled system can accomplish the off road performance of having front and rear limited-slip or locking differentials with none of the shortcomings. Using the ABS brakes rather than mechanical limited-slip or locking devices inside the axle differentials gives quicker response, more seamless performance and enhanced durability. Guarding all four wheels for traction loss, if needed, the system can transfer up to 50 percent of the supplied torque to any wheel which still has sufficient traction. In the right situations, a four-wheel-drive Expedition can keep moving, even if only one wheel has traction, no matter which wheel it is.
Towing capability
When first introduced in 1996, the Expedition competed directly with both the Chevrolet TahoeChevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe are full-size SUVs from General Motors. Chevrolet and GMC sold two different-sized SUVs under their Blazer/Jimmy model names through the early 1990s. This situation changed when GMC rebadged the full-size Jimmy as the Yukon in 1992...
and GMC Yukon
Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe are full-size SUVs from General Motors. Chevrolet and GMC sold two different-sized SUVs under their Blazer/Jimmy model names through the early 1990s. This situation changed when GMC rebadged the full-size Jimmy as the Yukon in 1992...
in the full-size half-ton SUV towing segment. New competitors to the towing segment emerged soon thereafter which include the Dodge Durango
Dodge Durango
The Dodge Durango is a full-size crossover SUV from the Dodge division of Chrysler. It was introduced in 1998 as a mid-size SUV, and as a replacement for the Ramcharger discontinued in the North American market in 1993, and was redesigned to full-size for 2004....
(which was discontinued in 2009, but reintroduced in 2011), Nissan Armada
Nissan Armada
The Nissan Armada is Nissan's full-size SUV. It shares its body-on-frame F-Alpha platform with the Nissan Titan pickup truck, Nissan Xterra SUV, Nissan Frontier pickup truck, and Nissan Pathfinder SUV. An upscale version of the Armada was sold as the Infiniti QX56 from 2004 to 2010, when it...
and Toyota Sequoia
Toyota Sequoia
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV produced by Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana in Princeton, Indiana. It is derived from the Toyota Tundra pickup truck but differs in its use of an independent rear suspension. It is priced between the mid-size 4Runner and Toyota's flagship Land Cruiser...
. Product research conducted by Ford indicated that 92 percent of Expedition owners use the SUV for vacations. Some 60 percent use it to transport outdoor sports equipment, while 40 percent of Expedition owners use the vehicle for towing.
The new half-ton Expedition EL/Max competes with the half-ton Chevrolet Suburban
Chevrolet Suburban
Chevrolet offered a station wagon body, built on the 1/2 ton truck frame. This model was specifically built for National Guard units and Civilian Conservation Corps units. Much of the body was constructed from wood, and could seat up to eight occupants....
1500 and GMC Yukon XL 1500 in the towing segment.
Over the years the Expedition’s towing capacity has grown from 8,100 lbs to a current rating of 9,200 lbs (when properly equipped). The list of towing features is also ever growing. Towing features common to all generations of the Expedition include: smallest possible turning radius
Turning radius
The turning radius or turning circle of a vehicle is the size of the smallest circular turn that the vehicle is capable of making. The term turning radius is actually a misnomer, since the size of a circle is actually its diameter, not its radius. The less ambiguous term turning circle is preferred...
for increased trailer maneuverability, large side view mirrors to improve rearward visibility, side view mirror rearward-facing lane departure/turning indicator lamps, which are helpful to other motorist when the Expedition is towing a long trailer providing added visual safety, heavy-duty flashers, heavy-duty large robust disc brakes to withstand prolonged braking while towing and an available heavy-duty trailer tow package which includes necessary additions for heavy-duty towing.
Heavy-duty trailer tow package
Expeditions equipped with the heavy-duty trailer tow package are prepped and readied for towing at the factory. The package includes a heavy-duty V-5 rated Class IV trailer hitch with weight distribution capability, heavy-duty radiator, heavy-duty auxiliary transmission fluid cooler, hitch mounted 4 and 7-pin trailer electrics connector and factory prewiring for an electronic trailer brake controllerTrailer Brake Controller
A brake controller is usually an oem or aftermarket installed device or module. It is mounted to the tow vehicle's drivers side dashboard area that engages a trailer’s braking system time delayed or proportional to the tow vehicle's brake engagement when slowing down or coming to a halt...
module. The brake controller wiring harness is located under the dash on the driver’s side for easy installment of the brake controller module.
Expeditions are also offered with an adaptive electronically controlled pneumatic suspension system with self leveling, payload leveling and trailer load leveling capability. The pneumatic suspension can automatically detect when a heavy trailer is coupled, such as a travel trailer
Travel trailer
A travel trailer or caravan is towed behind a road vehicle to provide a place to sleep which is more comfortable and protected than a tent . It provides the means for people to have their own home on a journey or a vacation, without relying on a motel or hotel, and enables them to stay in places...
, and level the load. Additional sensors placed on the left and right sides of the SUV also monitor and compensate for any listing caused by improper cargo loading. This keeps the Expedition running straight and level while towing, and at night helps to keep the Expedition’s headlamps from blinding oncoming traffic.
As of the 2010 model year, the Expedition received trailer sway control (TSC) as standard equipment. TSC builds off of the AdvanceTrac traction & stability control system to detect trailer oscillations and corrects it via asymmetrical breaking and reducing engine power until the Expedition and its trailer are both back under control.
Special Service Vehicle
Chevrolet Suburban
Chevrolet offered a station wagon body, built on the 1/2 ton truck frame. This model was specifically built for National Guard units and Civilian Conservation Corps units. Much of the body was constructed from wood, and could seat up to eight occupants....
, Ford has made a special version of the Expedition that's only available to law enforcement agencies, fire departments
Firefighting worldwide
As firefighting has a rich history throughout the world, traditions in this profession vary widely from country to country.-Australia:In Australia, fire services are state/territory organisations....
, and EMS agencies
Emergency medical services
Emergency medical services are a type of emergency service dedicated to providing out-of-hospital acute medical care and/or transport to definitive care, to patients with illnesses and injuries which the patient, or the medical practitioner, believes constitutes a medical emergency...
. Ford calls it the Expedition Special Service Vehicle (SSV). The only differences between the standard Expedition and the Special Service Vehicle Expedition are provisions for emergency services related equipment such as radios, lightbars and siren
Siren (noisemaker)
A siren is a loud noise making device. Most modern ones are civil defense or air raid sirens, tornado sirens, or the sirens on emergency service vehicles such as ambulances, police cars and fire trucks. There are two general types: pneumatic and electronic....
s. There are also options designated fleet only such as custom two-tone paint arrangements that are available to the Expedition Special Service Vehicle.
Funkmaster Flex edition
A special limited edition Ford Expedition with Funkmaster FlexFunkmaster Flex
Aston George Taylor, Jr. better known as Funkmaster Flex is an American hip hop DJ, rapper, musician and producer on New York City's Hot 97 radio station and host of the hit MTV show Funk Flex Full Throttle....
"FMF" trim and logos was offered for the 2008 model year only. This limited production model is based on the Limited trim level regular length Expedition and featured special Solid black and bright Colorado red two-tone paint work. Only 650 were produced and each are individually numbered on the center console.
Yearly American sales
| Calendar Year | Total American sales |
|---|---|
| 1999 | 233,125 |
| 2000 | 213,483 |
| 2001 | 178,045 |
| 2002 | 163,454 |
| 2003 | 181,547 |
| 2004 | 159,846 |
| 2005 | 114,137 |
| 2006 | 87,203 |
| 2007 | 90,287 |
| 2008 | 55,123 |
| 2009 | 31,655 |
| 2010 | 37,336 |
External links
- Ford Expedition official websites: