Every vehicle has its typical issues owners can expect to run into. Here are the 5 most common Ford Expedition problems of the 3rd generation, years 2007 to 2017.
Top 5 Issues on the 3rd Gen Ford Expedition (2007 to 2017)
1. MAF Sensor Failure
Symptoms of MAF Sensor Failure
- Poor fuel economy
- Rough engine idle
- Hesitation after pressing the accelerator pedal
Causes of MAF Sensor Failure
The MAF sensor measures how much air the engine is drawing so the computer knows how much fuel to mix with it for combustion. If the MAF sensor is dirty or has internal damage, it can cause the symptoms above. Sometimes the MAF sensor fails from use, and other times it fails from moisture sneaking in and damaging the internal components or from a problem with the electrical connection.
A dirty engine air filter may also cause these symptoms.
A loose or unlatched air filter housing cover or air intake hose clamp can also cause these symptoms.
How to Fix MAF Sensor Failure
Check the wires for damage like tearing. Disconnect the electrical connector and check it for corrosion or discoloration on the terminals.
Check the sensor unit on the MAF sensor for dark markings or accumulation. This is a sign the MAF sensor is dirty. You can try cleaning the MAF sensor with MAF sensor cleaner, and if that doesn’t clear the symptoms, replace the MAF sensor.
Check the air filter in the air filter housing for debris and dirt. If the engine air filter is dirty, replace it.
Make sure the air filter housing is secure and that all of the hoses and hose clamps are securely connected.
2. EGR Valve and Sensor Failure
Note: Not all 3rd gen Expeditions will have an EGR, also known as exhaust gas recirculation.
Symptoms of EGR Valve and Sensor Problems on the 2007 to 2017 Ford Expedition
- Slower acceleration
- Rough idling
- Engine ticking
- Engine knocking
Causes of a Bad EGR Valve and Sensor
If the EGR sensor isn’t working, it can’t control the EGR valve. If the EGR valve can’t open and close on time, the engine won’t perform as well. Carbon build-up can also keep the EGR valve from opening and closing as it needs to.
A closed EGR valve will cause build-up of nitrous oxide gas in the engine cylinder, which can cause engine ticking and knocking.
A stuck open EGR valve can cause rough idling and slower acceleration.
How to Fix a Bad EGR Valve and Sensor
General steps for testing an EGR valve
- Read any Engine Codes
Connect a scanner to the OBD-II port and pull the codes for the check engine light
- Remove the EGR Valve
Disconnect and remove the EGR valve
- Clean the EGR Valve
Clean the EGR valve and its hoses of any carbon build-up
- Replace the EGR Sensor
If there is still an issue, replace the sensor
3. Spark Plugs Sticking
Symptoms of Spark Plug Problems
- Spark plugs difficult to remove from the engine
Causes of Spark Plug Problems on the 3rd Gen Ford Expedition
The spark plugs on the 2-valve engines had an issue remaining fastened inside. On the 5.4L 3-valve engines the spark plugs fall a little further down into the engine head because of a sleeve to fix the fastening issue, but the spark plugs’ sleeve is prone to sticking inside of the engine from rust and carbon build-up when it’s time to replace them.
How to Fix Spark Plug Problems
Run an internal engine cleaner that can break down the carbon in the spark plug area.
While it’s not good practice to work on a warm engine, we recommend changing the spark plugs with the engine warm to help loosen them from the build-up.
After the ignition coils have been removed, spray compressed air into the engine cylinder to loosen the spark plug sleeves. Then spray a little rust penetrant to loosen the spark plugs further. Remove the spark plugs with a specialized spark plug socket, which can help remove the spark plugs from the 3rd gen Expedition easier.
If one of the spark plugs breaks, the tool set below from 1aauto.com can help remove it.
4. Aluminum Body Panel Corrosion
Symptoms of Body Panel Corrosion
- Gray corrosion underneath the paint can bubble and flake it
Causes of Aluminum Body Panel Corrosion
The corrosion stems from iron contamination during manufacture that occurred before the vehicle was coated and painted. The 3rd gen Expedition can also corrode from the body being exposed to the elements.
How to Fix Body Panel Corrosion
The corrosion is not a safety issue or a structural problem but an aesthetic issue. Sanding the area down, cleaning it, and resurfacing the area with new paint should fix this problem. A body shop can also fix this problem.
5. Blower Motor Resistor
Symptoms of Blower Motor Resistor
- Heat and fan settings only work at certain speeds
Causes of Blower Motor Resistor
The blower motor resistor tends to fail on the lower settings, which means it should be replaced. Sometimes a failed blower motor can melt down the wiring. Corrosion on the wires can also cause failure.
How to Fix a Blower Motor Resistor
Replace the blower motor resistor. We recommend replacing the blower motor at the same time in case it is causing the failure. If the resistor has corrosion, check the electrical connector, which may need to be cleaned and also replaced.
Fix Your 3rd Gen Ford Expedition Yourself
Check out 1A Auto’s how-to videos that cover tons of repairs for the 2007 to 2017 Ford Expedition and more models.
3rd Generation Ford Expedition Model Years
- 2007 Ford Expedition
- 2008 Ford Expedition
- 2009 Ford Expedition
- 2010 Ford Expedition
- 2011 Ford Expedition
- 2012 Ford Expedition
- 2013 Ford Expedition
- 2014 Ford Expedition
- 2015 Ford Expedition
- 2016 Ford Expedition
- 2017 Ford Expedition
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- Blower Motor Making Noise? [Expert advice: diagnose & fix]
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