CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Ford›
  4. Expedition›
  5. 2013

2013 Ford Expedition Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis
2013 Ford Expedition Report

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Powertrain issues, including sudden downshifts and power loss, are the most frequent and concerning complaints, potentially impacting safety and drivability.
  • Electrical system problems are also prevalent, ranging from minor glitches to more serious concerns.
  • While the 5.4L V8 engine is generally considered capable, some owners report premature wear on timing components and potential for engine issues.
  • Fuel economy is a significant drawback, with high fuel costs expected.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Ford Expedition

The 2013 Ford Expedition offers robust utility and a spacious interior, making it a compelling option for families and those needing towing capability. However, prospective used-car buyers should be aware of a notable number of owner complaints, especially regarding powertrain and electrical system issues. While it boasts good safety ratings, its fuel economy is on the lower side, contributing to high fuel costs. The absence of recalls is a positive, but it doesn't negate the documented issues reported by owners.

Critical Failure Risk

Sudden unintended downshifts, loss of power, and complete transmission failure are frequently reported. These issues can occur without warning and may be linked to the transmission control module or lead frame.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

112
Power Train37
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
15
MPG
City
13
MPG
Highway
18
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.5/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers who prioritize space and towing capability above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Ford Expedition Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Ford Expedition.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Gasoline or E85
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
15

CarFocal account required

See the full 2013 Ford Expedition buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 37 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 10 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Ford Expedition reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Ford Expedition is 9.5/10. Reliability score is 9.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 112.

How practical is the 2013 Ford Expedition for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 15 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Ford Expedition?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Ford Expedition is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Ford Expedition?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission Control Module (TCM) / Lead Frame (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,200).

What engine is in the 2013 Ford Expedition?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 5.4.

What transmission does the 2013 Ford Expedition use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Ford Expedition, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2013 Expedition require Gasoline or E85 gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Ford Expedition?▾

EPA combined estimate is 15 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Ford Expedition?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2013 Ford Expedition?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Ford Expedition, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Ford Expedition use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Ford Expedition, drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Ford Expedition?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2013 Ford Expedition good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. This guide details modifications for the 2013 Ford Expedition (US market), emphasizing enhancements that improve handling, braking, and over...

What are the most common power train problems on the 2013 Ford Expedition?▾

Top complaint category: power train (37 reports, 33% of complaints).

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.