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2018 Ford Expedition Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·5 Critical Recalls
2018 Ford Expedition Report

Overall Score

5.8/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • The powertrain is the most significant area of concern, with numerous complaints about transmission performance and potential failures.
  • Engine issues, particularly cam phaser problems, are frequently reported and can lead to reduced performance and costly repairs.
  • While safety ratings are high, a substantial number of recalls (61) and complaints (418) indicate potential for underlying issues.
  • Thorough inspection of the transmission and engine is non-negotiable for any used 2018 Expedition.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Ford Expedition

The 2018 Ford Expedition offers substantial capability and passenger space, but used shoppers should be aware of its significant reliability concerns. With 61 recalls and 418 complaints logged with NHTSA, this model year exhibits a pattern of issues, particularly within its core mechanical systems. The powertrain and engine are the most frequent sources of trouble, with owners reporting issues like transmission slipping and engine cam phaser problems. While it boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, the sheer volume of complaints and recalls, especially those related to critical systems, warrants careful consideration and thorough pre-purchase inspection. High fuel costs are also a factor given its combined 18 MPG rating.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent complaints and recalls related to the automatic transmission, including slipping, harsh shifting, and loss of power. This is the most significant complaint category.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls61
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

418
Power Train123
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
18
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
21
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.6/ 10

Practicality

4.8/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing space and capability above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Risk-averse buyers.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Ford Expedition Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Ford Expedition.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
8
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
EPA Combined MPG
18

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

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 123 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 88 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

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

Est. shop cost: $40 - $70

10,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
61 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Ford Expedition reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Ford Expedition is 6.6/10. Reliability score is 6.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 61. Owner complaints: 418.

How practical is the 2018 Ford Expedition for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 8. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Ford Expedition?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Ford Expedition is 5.8/10. Overall score is 5.8/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 3.9/10. Tuning 5.0/10. Practicality 4.8/10.

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Ford Expedition?▾

Base MSRP is $51,790.

What engine is in the 2018 Ford Expedition?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2018 Ford Expedition use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Expedition, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Ford Expedition?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Ford Expedition?▾

7 standard and 6 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Ford Expedition?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Expedition, seating capacity is 8.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Ford Expedition use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Expedition, drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Ford Expedition?▾

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

Is the 2018 Ford Expedition good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 5/10. This guide details tuning and modifying the 2018 Ford Expedition. While the 3.5L EcoBoost engine can be tuned, the Expedition's nature as a... Popular platforms: Ford Expedition 3.5L EcoBoost.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2018 Ford Expedition?▾

Top complaint category: power train (123 reports, 29.4% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Ford Expedition?▾

This model year has 61 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Ford Expedition?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe and 2018 GMC Yukon.

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

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