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The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV assembled by the American automaker Ford Motor Company.

Introduced as the four-door successor of the two-door Ford Bronco, the Expedition has remained in production since the 1997 model year; it is currently in its third model generation. Sold in regular and extended lengths, the F-150-based Expedition is largest SUV currently sold by the company; the extended length (Expedition EL/Max) sold since 2007 is largely the replacement for the Super Duty-based Ford Excursion. For its entire production life, the Lincoln Navigator luxury SUV has shared its chassis and body with the Ford Expedition (the Expedition was never marketed by Mercury prior to its 2010 closure).

The Ford Expedition SUV is the third Ford vehicle to use the nameplate within Ford. First used on a 1992 F-150 Eddie Bauer concept vehicle, the name reappeared on the two-door Ford Explorer Sport as a trim level for 1995 before its shift to the subsequent full-size SUV.

The Ford Expedition was originally assembled in Wayne, Michigan. In 2009, Ford shifted production to Louisville, Kentucky, as the Wayne assembly plant was retooled to build the Ford Focus.

Ford Expedition

Overview
Manufacturer	Ford
Production	1996–present
Body and chassis
Class	Full-size SUV
Body style	5-door SUV
Layout	Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Dimensions
Curb weight	5,801 lb (2,631 kg) (standard) 6,071 lb (2,754 kg) (EL)
Chronology
Predecessor	Ford Bronco (standard)

Vehicle background

The Expedition offered up to nine-passenger seating in model years before 2009 (with a front bench seat option in the first row); 2009–present has bucket seats in the first row and seats eight passengers. It is equipped with a V8 engine. It is similar to the Lincoln Navigator, especially in Limited or King Ranch or Platinum high end trims; both of which were introduced for the 2005 model year except for Platinum which was introduced for 2015. With the 2011 model year, the base model was designated XL, an upgraded XLT, and new for 2011 XLT Premium that replaced the Eddie Bauer trim which was phased out from the entire Ford vehicle lineup. As of 2010, over 1,545,241 Expeditions (both standard and EL/Max) have been sold. A modified Special Service Vehicle version is available for law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and emergency medical services.

The Ford Expedition is also known for being one of the longest-lasting vehicles on the road. With 5% of vehicles over 200K miles, it landed the #4 spot in a 2016 study by iSeeCars.com listing the top 10 longest-lasting vehicles.

First generation (1997–2002)

First generation (UN93)

Overview
Production	1996–2002
Model years	1997–2002
Assembly	Wayne, Michigan, U.S. (Michigan Assembly Plant)
Body and chassis
Platform	Ford U platform
Related	Ford F-150 Lincoln Blackwood Lincoln Navigator
Powertrain
Engine	4.6 L Triton V-8 5.4 L Triton V-8
Transmission	4-speed E4OD automatic 4-speed 4R100 automatic 4-speed 4R70W automatic Transfer case (4x4 models) 2-speed BorgWarner 4406 High range ratio: 1.00:1 Low range ratio: 2.64:1
Dimensions
Wheelbase	1996–98: 119.0 in (3,023 mm) 1998–2002: 119.1 in (3,025 mm)
Length	204.6 in (5,197 mm)
Width	78.6 in (1,996 mm)
Height	1996–98 4WD: 76.4 in (1,941 mm) 1996–98 2WD: 74.9 in (1,902 mm) 1998–2000 4WD: 78.4 in (1,991 mm) 1998–2000 2WD: 76.5 in (1,943 mm) 2000–02 4WD: 76.6 in (1,946 mm) 2000–02 2WD: 74.3 in (1,887 mm)

Known internally at Ford as the UN93, the first generation Expedition was developed under the UN93 program from 1991 to 1996. The all-new full-size SUV was introduced in late 1996 as a 1997 model. It replaced the aging two-door Ford Bronco. The XLT was the base model. The Expedition featured optional three row seating, first row captains chair seating, available second row captains chair seating, leather seating surfaces, illuminated running boards, heated side view mirrors, power moon roof, dual zone climate control and Ford's Mach audio sound system with rear subwoofer. Many of these features were standard on the Eddie Bauer version.

Expedition was available with automatic full-time ControlTrac four-wheel drive with two-speed dual range BorgWarner 4406 transfer case and a center multi-disc differential. ControlTrac was introduced in 1995 and included four selectable modes: Two High, Auto, Four High (lock) and Four Low (lock). Two High mode and Auto mode with auto-lock was not available.

A short- & long-arm (SLA) independent front suspension with speed-sensitive power-assisted steering was combined with a multi-link rear live axle. Optional equipment included off-road under-body skid-plate protection, Traction-Lok rear limited-slip differential, and a heavy-duty trailer towing package.

Optional was an electronically controlled pneumatic air suspension system that would raise and lower the vehicle depending on road and load conditions. The system also included a kneel-down mode for easier ingress and egress, as well as loading cargo,

Standard was the 4.6 liter Triton V8 with the 5.4 liter version optional. The first generation Expedition was rated as a Low Emission Vehicle (LEV). The latter engine combined with the heavy-duty trailer towing package and appropriate axle ratio can achieve a towing capacity of 8,100 lbs (3,674 kg).

Engine(s)

Model Year	Type/model	Power	Torque
1997–1998	4.6 Liter (281 cu in) 16-valve SOHC Triton V-8 gasoline	215 hp (160 kW)	290 lb·ft (393 N·m)
1997–1998	5.4 Liter (330 cu in) 16-valve SOHC Triton V-8 gasoline	230 hp (172 kW)	325 lb·ft (441 N·m)
1999–2002	4.6 Liter (281 cu in) 16-valve SOHC Triton V-8 gasoline	230 hp (172 kW)	291 lb·ft (395 N·m)
1999–2002	5.4 Liter (330 cu in) 16-valve SOHC Triton V-8 gasoline	260 hp (194 kW)	355 lb·ft (481 N·m)

Transmission(s)

Model Year	Type/model
1997–1998	4-speed E4OD automatic
1998–2002	4-speed 4R100 automatic
1996–2002	4-speed 4R70W automatic

Safety and security

A two air bag supplementary restraint system (SRS) with 2-way occupant protection was standard. The air bags would adjust deployment force depending on crash severity. Features included SecuriLock with smart key and engine immobilizer, security approach lamps, four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS), side-intrusion door beams, post-crash fuel pump shut-off and three-point safety belts for all rows of seating with tension and locking retractors.

An optional four air bag SRS with 4-way occupant protection was available for the 2000–2002 model years. This included seat-mounted side torso side air bags.

The 2001 model introduced a BeltMinder system to detect when the driver did not have their safety belt secured.

NHTSA NCAP crash scores:
1997–2000		2001–2002
Frontal Driver:		Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:		Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:	Not tested	Side Driver:	Not tested
Side Rear Passenger:	Not tested	Side Rear Passenger:	Not tested
Rollover Resistance (RWD):	Not tested	Rollover Resistance (RWD):
Rollover Resistance (4WD):	Not tested	Rollover Resistance (4WD):

Model year changes

1998

No major cosmetic or mechanical changes. A new exterior color was added: Wedgewood Blue.1998

1999

The 1999 model year received a facelift similar to that of the 1999 model year Ford F-150. Included in the update was a new front grille which now dropped lower in the center, grille work, as well as a new front bumper that incorporated the fog lamps into the lower valance and larger center air intake. Both the 4.6 liter and 5.4 liter V8 engines received updates including more power and torque. The Two High mode for automatic full-time ControlTrac four-wheel drive equipped models was dropped leaving only Auto, Four High (lock) and Four Low (lock) modes. The dashboard also received an updated radio and air conditioning controls and revised Gauge Cluster and a Digital Odometer for the first time.

2000

Available features on 2000 models included a hidden radio antenna (integrated into the rear quarter panel window glass), Gentex auto dimming electrochromatic rear view mirrors, lane departure indicators on side view mirrors (before on the glass) and ultrasonic rear park assist /backup sensors. The lower front bumper valance and illuminated running boards were changed over to Arizona beige to complement the standard Arizona beige exterior body trim on Eddie Bauer models.

2001

New trim packages included the XLT model. XLT versions could be optioned with the XLT No Boundaries package that included monochromatic black paint work with chrome grille and special alloy wheels. Eddie Bauer versions could be optioned with the Eddie Bauer Premier package that included either monochromatic Arizona beige or solid black paint work with painted alloy wheels and upgraded leather seating.

2002

No major cosmetic or mechanical changes. Last year model for the UN93. This was also the last model year for XLT No Boundaries and Eddie Bauer Premier trims.

Second generation (2003–2006)

Second generation (U222)

Overview
Also called	Ford Expedition Special Service Vehicle
Production	2002–2006
Model years	2003–2006
Assembly	Wayne, Michigan, U.S. (Michigan Assembly Plant)
Designer	Tyler Blake (1999)
Body and chassis
Platform	Ford U platform
Related	Ford F-150 Lincoln Navigator
Powertrain
Engine	4.6 L Triton V-8 5.4 L Triton V-8
Transmission	4-speed 4R70W automatic 4-speed 4R75E automatic Transfer case (4x4 models) 2-speed BorgWarner 4416 High range ratio: 1.00:1 Low range ratio: 2.62:1
Dimensions
Wheelbase	119.0 in (3,023 mm)
Length	205.8 in (5,227 mm)
Width	78.7 in (1,999 mm)
Height	2005–06 4WD: 76.6 in (1,946 mm) 2005–06 2WD: 76.7 in (1,948 mm) 2002–04: 77.6 in (1,971 mm)

The redesigned second-generation Expedition was developed under the U222 program code name from 1996 to 2002, under Ford chief vehicle engineer Steve von Foerster and chief program engineer John Krafcik from 1998 to 2002. Design work began in 1997, with a proposal by Tyler Blake being chosen by management and frozen for production in 1999. UN93-body mules were spotted testing in 2000, with full prototypes running from late 2000. The new Expedition was unveiled at the 2002 North American International Auto Show, in January. It was launched in 2002 for the 2003 model yearand featured a new four-wheel independent long-travel suspension system, becoming the first full-size sport utility vehicle to use a fully independent suspension.

The new independent rear suspension (IRS) was perceived as being controversial by some at the time of its introduction. A misconception was that the Expedition's towing and off-road capabilities would be reduced, in comparison to the previous generation's rear live axle. Nevertheless, underbody obstacle clearance improved by half an inch, and up to two inches under the axle differentials. The new suspension reduces rear unsprung mass by 110 pounds, and allows for a full 9.4 inches of suspension travel (how much the wheels can travel up or down) improving its ability to traverse uneven terrain for improved control and ride quality. The four-wheel independent long-travel suspension itself is a purpose-built version of race suspensions found on off-road desert race vehicles.

Towing capacity increased by 800 lbs (363 kg) for a high towing capacity of 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg) when properly equipped with the appropriate axle ratio and heavy-duty trailer towing package. Payload capacity was increased up to 1,614 lbs (732 kg). Expedition also gained a hydroformed fully boxed frame providing a 70 percent improvement in torsional stiffness.

Along with the high towing capability came all-new steering, braking and electronic systems to help the Expedition better control and maneuver long heavy trailers. Adaptive variable assist power rack-and-pinion steering was introduced along with the largest brake rotors in the segment at that time (13.5 inches up front, 13 inches in back) with brake calipers 100 percent stiffer than the previous generation Expedition. The four-speed 4R70W automatic transmission received all-new control software to allow the transmission to automatically adjust to the demands of towing, using new computer logic that recognizes changes in load and road conditions.

The automatic full-time ControlTrac four-wheel drive system remained available, with an uprated two-speed dual range BorgWarner 4416 transfer case. The new transfer case featured an updated intelligent locking center multi-disc differential with front-to-rear "torque biasing" capability in Auto mode. A new dedicated microprocessor with new control software was added allowing the system to detect different terrain and surface conditions to predict traction loss before it happens. Two High mode was also reintroduced. Four-wheel electronic traction control was now available as an option, and simulated front and rear differential locks.

The V8 engines offered on the previous generation were carried over, but not without major changes and improvements. Both the 4.6 and 5.4-liter Triton V8 engines received further refinements in design and overall efficiency. Expedition qualified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) and was certified under the Environmental Protection Agency Tier 2 regulations one year earlier than required. The 4.6-liter engine received an all-new redesigned cast aluminium engine block optimized for weight reduction and NVH improvements. The 5.4-liter engine received an all-new redesigned cast-iron engine block with computer designed ribbing and bracing, along with thicker side skirts and reinforcement at the oil pan flange. The new engine block helped reduce engine vibration and unwanted noise while providing refined performance.

Both engines featured piston skirts coated with a teflon-based friction-reducing material, and fitted with low-tension, low oil consumption rings. In addition, a new fail-safe cooling mode provided protection even in the case of a catastrophic coolant loss (such as a punctured radiator). In the event of coolant loss, the engine control unit shuts off fuel to alternate cylinders to reduce the risk of engine damage from overheating. The valves continue to operate, in order to pump cooling air through the cylinders. The cooling system was designed to maintain an ideal engine temperature even when subjected to a prolonged 15 percent gradient in 46 °C (115 °F) weather. A returnless fuel supply system helped to reduce evaporative emissions by providing consistent pressure to the fuel injectors through a high-pressure pump.

New active hydraulic engine mounts were introduced to prevent the powertrain from inducing vibrations into the chassis. By optimizing these engine mounts, the engine block can act as a mass damper, absorbing chassis resonance, improving ride comfort.

Expedition's passenger cabin was better sealed than before, in an effort to eliminate intrusive outside noise from reaching the occupants. Wind, powertrain, road and vehicle body noise was reduced by improving interior acoustics through new damping materials, a total of 10 shear-style isolating body mounts, heavier sealing of body and panels, redesigned rubber door seals, and extensive use of interior structural acoustic foam in the upper B-pillars, upper and lower D-pillars and floor pan. Road noise was reduced by 2 decibels, body air leakage reduced by 56 percent, chances for sealant noise disturbances reduced from 15 percent to less than 0.5 percent and wind noise measured at 80 mph (130 km/h) was reduced from 35 sones to a world class level of 29 sones.

The Expedition also received a thorough exterior and interior cosmetic redesign. Expedition featured an all-new front fascia, grille work, headlamps, body trim, rear fascia, tail lamps and liftgate. Interior fit and finish were improved with an all-new interior featuring new dash, door panels, genuine aluminium trim, and plush carpeting. Premium perforated leather seating surfaces were standard on Expedition Eddie Bauer (optional on Expedition XLT). Expedition FX4 models featured all of Expedition's optional off road equipment as standard equipment. Expedition's drag coefficient was 0.41 Cd.

Three-row seating was standard with all-new manual fold-flat stow away third row seats. No longer did owners have to remove the third rows seats for more storage. The third row could simply "disappear" into the floor. Power assisted PowerFold fold-flat third row seating was available as an optional extra. Available features included in-dash CD-ROM based navigation system, DVD based rear entertainment system, ultrasonic rear park assist/back up sensors, power moon roof, power adjustable accelerator and brake pedals (introduced on the first generation Expedition), Gentex auto dimming electrochromatic rear view mirror, lane departure indicators on side-view mirrors, second-row captain's chair luxury seating, premium audiophile sound system with in-dash six-disc CD changer and rear subwoofer and four-wheel independent pneumatic air-ride suspension system.