Crossroads Ford Southern Pines

Nov 14, 2024

What Is The Best Year to Buy A Used Ford Expedition? Navigating Your Purchase

The Ford Expedition is a spacious and versatile companion for your adventuring and family needs. This full-size SUV offers spacious comfort, advanced technology, and rugged capability for every adventure. However, deciding on a used Ford Expedition can be tricky. At Crossroads Ford of Southern Pines, we’ll help you navigate what the best years for a used Ford Expedition are, factors to consider when buying one, and potential pitfalls to avoid.

Knowing Your Ride

The Ford Expedition debuted in 1997 as a full-size, four-door SUV designed to compete with GM’s Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon and replace the Ford Bronco. Built on the same platform as the Ford F-150, the first-generation Ford Expedition shared key components like engines and suspensions, making it larger than its rivals. Its extended wheelbase allowed for three-row seating, accommodating up to eight or nine passengers, is a feature that set it apart in the full-size SUV segment.

Reviewing the specs to decide what the best year to buy a used Ford Expedition is, you’ll notice that this SUV comes in two sizes: the standard model and the MAX model that offers more cabin space. The current model year can tow up to 9,200 lbs. with the available Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and is powered by a standard 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine with 400 horsepower and 480 lb.-ft. of torque. Inside, the Ford Expedition offers seating for up to eight or nine passengers and premium interior materials on select models for a luxurious experience. An LCD touchscreen with SYNC® 4, Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™ enhances connectivity, while standard Ford Co-Pilot360® features like Lane-Keeping and Hill Descent Control™ ensure safety and convenience.

What to Look For When Buying a Used Ford Expedition

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what to consider when you’re wondering about what the best year to buy a used Ford Expedition is.

Vehicle History Report: Obtain a vehicle history report to identify prior accidents, repairs, and ownership changes.

Test-Drive: Pay close attention to handling, braking, and acceleration. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations. Additionally, check the performance of the rear wheels to ensure proper handling and stability.

Mechanic Inspection: Have a qualified mechanic thoroughly inspect the vehicle, focusing on the engine, transmission, suspension, and potential leaks.

Interior and Exterior: Check for any damage to the interior, such as worn seats or malfunctioning electronics. Inspect the exterior for dents, rust, or uneven paintwork.

By diligently inspecting a used Ford Expedition, you can increase the chances of a reliable and enjoyable driving experience.

Should You Buy a Used Ford Expedition?

Is a used Ford Expedition the right choice for you? It’s a great opportunity for some, but others may not feel the same. Here are some factors to consider if you’re curious about what the best year to buy a used Ford Expedition is.

Budget: Used Ford Expedition models offer significant savings compared to new models. A new car, like the latest Ford Expedition, offers advanced features such as improved seating, technology, and responsive safety features, but it comes at a higher price. For budget-conscious buyers, a used Ford Expedition might be a better option due to its lower initial cost. However, consider maintenance costs, as some years may be more prone to repairs.

Driving Needs: Do you prioritize on-road comfort or off-road capability? The Ford Expedition is geared towards family travel, but higher trim levels offer upgraded comfort and amenities.

Features: Identify the features you desire, such as a sunroof, infotainment system, or specific off-road capabilities. Availability may vary by year.

If you prioritize affordability, a reliable used Ford Expedition can be a great option. For something budget-friendly but still like new, you can select a Ford Expedition Certified Pre-Owned model and achieve peace of mind knowing it’s been through a rigorous testing process. These also tend to have low mileage, come with comprehensive warranties, and so much more. However, you should still conduct research in order to choose the right year based on your needs.

Best Years For a Used Ford Expedition

Here’s a breakdown of what the best years for a used Ford Expedition are, and the ones to avoid.

Years to Avoid

2018-2020: This range of Ford Expedition models offered strong performance and impressive towing capacity but was held back by its high price tag and poor fuel economy, especially when towing. 

2022: The 2022 Ford Expedition has several issues, including slow retractable running boards and poor voice activation. The vehicle also lacked features like color options for ambient lighting, a functional keyless entry pad, and easy customization for seat belt reminders and door locks, which were available in previous models. 

Recommended Years

2017: This year stood out for its spacious interior, offering ample room for passengers and cargo. You could also choose between a regular or extended-length model to suit your needs, with the extended version providing even more space. A power-folding third-row seat was also available, making it easy to configure the cabin for maximum storage or seating.

2021: The 2021 Ford Expedition offered real comfort with spacious seating in all rows, a powerful engine, and excellent ride quality. Although on the higher side of pricing, It excelled in towing and handled heavy loads with ease, while its outstanding multimedia tech enhanced the driving experience. Additionally, the easy-to-use Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ made parking and maneuvering with a trailer a breeze.

2023-2024: These years offer a powerful V6 engine, excellent towing capabilities, and a smooth, comfortable ride, making it a strong contender in the full-size SUV segment. Its spacious interior provides room for passengers in all rows, and the advanced multimedia technology adds modern convenience. Although these come with a high price tag, it provides the driving experience you need.

Reimagine Your Next Ride

By considering what the best year for a used Ford Expedition is, conducting thorough inspections, and understanding key features to look for, you can confidently navigate the process of finding the right model for you. Selecting a reliable ride is crucial to avoid common problems associated with certain model years. The 2017-2024 models are ideal choices for the Ford Expedition. Select your family-friendly ride today by visiting Crossroads Ford of Southern Pines!

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