2021 Ford Expedition Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Powertrain issues are the most significant concern, with frequent complaints of transmission slippage, hard shifting, and loss of power.
- A critical engine fire recall (22V346000) necessitates verification of repair completion.
- The airbag sensor recall (21V805000) also requires confirmation of service.
- Expect high fuel costs due to its combined 18 MPG rating.
2021 Ford Expedition
The 2021 Ford Expedition offers substantial capability and passenger space, but used-car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability. With 56 recalls and 240 complaints logged with NHTSA, potential buyers face a higher risk of encountering mechanical issues. The most pressing concerns revolve around the powertrain and engine, with numerous reports of transmission problems and a critical recall for engine fires. While it boasts a 5-star overall safety rating, the sheer volume of recalls and common complaints warrants a thorough pre-purchase inspection, particularly focusing on the engine and transmission systems. High fuel costs are also a consideration for this large SUV.
Critical Failure Risk
Owners frequently report the transmission slipping between gears, harsh shifts, and occasional loss of power. This often occurs without warning lights and can manifest at relatively low mileage.
Early detection can help you avoid a $2,500-$5,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing space and capability over long-term mechanical predictability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Risk-averse buyers.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Ford Expedition Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Ford Expedition.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 8
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 18
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 75 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 50 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $150 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Ford Expedition reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Ford Expedition is 6.5/10. Reliability score is 6.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 56. Owner complaints: 240.
How practical is the 2021 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 2021 Ford Expedition?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Ford Expedition is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.3/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.8/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Ford Expedition?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,500 • Max: $5,000).
What engine is in the 2021 Ford Expedition?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2021 Ford Expedition use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Expedition, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Ford Expedition?
EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Ford Expedition?
13 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Ford Expedition?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Expedition, seating capacity is 8.
What body style is the 2021 Ford Expedition?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Expedition, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Ford Expedition use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Expedition, drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Ford Expedition?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2021 Ford Expedition good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2021 Ford Expedition, while a capable full-size SUV, presents a challenging landscape for performance tuning.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2021 Ford Expedition?
Top complaint category: power train (75 reports, 31.2% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Ford Expedition?
This model year has 56 official safety campaigns listed.