Owners have filed 1,065 complaints
about the 1997 Ford Expedition with NHTSA between 1996 and 2024.
The largest single group is the suspension.
Across this model's run it ranks 4 of 30 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Ford Expedition. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
20.4% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 8
5% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 1997 compares with every other Ford Expedition
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
82.7%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
10.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
31.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
124.1%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
3010.3%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
4114.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
10937.5%
150,000+ miles
8729.9%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Dec 1996peak 43May 2024
NHTSA investigations into the 1997 Ford Expedition
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
DP05005Opened 22 Sep 2005Closed 4 Jan 2006ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD
ON SEPTEMBER 6, 2005, ODI RECEIVED A PETITION REQUESTING THAT THE AGENCY INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS OF ENGINE SPARK PLUG EJECTION IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1997 THROUGH 2004 FORD VEHICLES WITH TRITON V-8 AND V-10 ENGINES.ODI RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 474 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WHERE THE COMPLAINANT, OR THE DEALER REPAIRING THE VEHICLE, REPORTED THAT A SPARK PLUG DETACHED FROM THE CYLINDER AND/OR EJECTED FROM THE ENGINE.AS OF DECEMBER 8, 2005, ODI IS NOT AWARE OF ANY ALLEGATIONS WHERE THE ALLEGED DEFECT RESULTED IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, A CRASH, AN INJURY, OR A FATALITY IN A...
EA05005Opened 22 Mar 2005Closed 2 Aug 2006ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES
EA05-005 IS CLOSED WITH FORD?S ACTIONS IN RECALLS 05V-017, 05V-388, AND 06V-286, RECALLING APPROXIMATELY 6.7 MILLION VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCHES (SCDS).THE BRAKE SYSTEMS IN THESE RECALLED VEHICLES GENERATE A VACUUM THAT CAN POTENTIALLY CAUSE THE SCDS TO FAIL AND, IN CERTAIN SWITCH INSTALLATION ORIENTATIONS, CATCH FIRE.FORD IS ALSO INCLUDING THE ENTIRE POPULATION OF 1998 EXPLORERS.FORD HAS INFORMED ODI THAT TESTING TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF FAILURES IN THE 1998 EXPLORERS WILL CONTINUE AFTER THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.ODI BELIEVES THAT THE VEHIC...
EA02001Opened 6 Feb 2002Closed 29 May 2003STEERING
STEERING SHAFT SEPARATION
SEE ATTACHED SUMMARY FOR TECHNICAL DETAILS
PE01022Opened 2 Jul 2001Closed 9 Nov 2001SUSPENSION
FRONT STABILIZER LINK
PE99060Opened 27 Sep 1999Closed 8 Mar 2000EQUIPMENT
FACTORY INSTALLED TOWING HITCH SEPARATIO
THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED ON SEPTEMBER 27, 1999 BASED ON FIVE CONSUMER REPORTS ALLEGING THAT SOME OF THE EIGHT HITCH MOUNTING BOLTS EITHER BECAME LOOSE OR CAME COMPLETELY OUT OF ITS RETAINING PLATE.ONE OF THE COMPLAINTS INDICATED THAT WHILE TOWIG A TRAILER THE HITCH ACTUALLY SEPARATED FROM THE FRAME ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE WHEN THE FOUR MOUNTING BOLTS ON THAT SIDE CAME COMPLETELY OUT. THIS ALLOWED THE HITCH AND TRAILER TO CONTACT THE ROAD SURFACE.IN ITS RESPONSE TO THE AGENCY, FORD PROVIDED INFORMATION REGARDING NINE ADDITIONAL REPORTS OF LOOSE OR MISSING BOLTS, TWO OF THOSE...
PE98009Opened 13 Feb 1998Closed 30 Jun 1998SUSPENSION
INDEPENDENT FRONT SUSPENSION TORSION BAR
THREE CONSUMERS HAVE REPORTED FAILURE OF ONE OF THE TWO FRONT SUSPENSION TORSION BARS IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.IN ONE CASE THE FAILURE OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN OPERATION, AND THE VEHICLES WERE PARKED WHEN THE OTHER TWO FAILURES OCCURRED.NO CRASHES HAVE BEEN REPORTED.TORSION BAR FAILURES ARE CONSIDERED TO BE FAIRLY UNCOMMON AND IN EACH OF THE REPORTED CASES, THE FAILURES OCCURRED AT RELATIVELY LOW MILEAGES.THE FAILURES ARE ALSO REPORTED TO HAVE OCCURRED IN A COMMON LOCATION, APPROXIMATELY SIX INCHES FROM THE CONTROL ARM.A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION HAS BEEN OPENED TO EVALUATE THE SCOPE AND...
Recalls on the 1997 Ford Expedition
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
06E067000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
CERTAIN MAXZONE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 331-1129L-ASN AND 331-1129R-ASN, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
06E060000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Risk: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
05V388000
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
Risk: A FIRE AT THE SWITCH COULD OCCUR.
03V196000
STEERING:GEAR BOX:SHAFT SECTOR
ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, IF THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT YOKE SEPARATES FROM THE STEERING GEAR INPUT SHAFT, THE STEERING SYSTEM BECOMES DISCONNECTED.
Risk: THIS COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
00V168000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS, LIGHT PICKUP TRUCKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. OFF LEASE CANADIAN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS WHICH MEET CANADIAN REQUIREMENTS AND NOT THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." ACCORDING TO FORD, THE VEHICLES WERE IMPORTED INTO THE U.S. ERRONEOUSLY.
Risk: THE LIGHT GIVEN OFF FROM THE DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS IS BRIGHTER THAN ALLOWED BY U.S. STANDARDS.
00V073000
TRAILER HITCHES
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES. THE TRAILER HITCH ASSEMBLY TO THE FRAME ATTACHING BOLTS COULD LOSE THE CLAMP LOAD.
Risk: THE TRAILER HITCH COULD THEN SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
98V095000
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES AND LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. THE LUG NUTS ON THESE VEHICLES MAY NOT CREATE SUFFICIENT CLAMP LOAD ALLOWING WHEEL MOVEMENT IN RELATION TO THE HUB/ROTOR MOUNTING SURFACE.
Risk: THIS CAN RESULT IN THE LOOSENING OF LUG NUTS, STUD FATIGUE FAILURE, AND THE POTENTIAL FOR A WHEEL SEPARATION FROM THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
97V171000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS AND MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE ASSEMBLY WAS NOT FULLY ATTACHED TO THE STEERING COLUMN BRACKET, THE SHIFT CABLE ASSEMBLY CAN COME OUT OF THE BRACKET. THE VEHICLE OPERATOR WOULD THEN NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION FROM ONE OF THE DRIVE GEAR POSITIONS INTO THE PARK POSITION EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT SELECTOR WOULD INDICATE "PARK."
Risk: THE CONDITION WOULD NOT ALLOW A DISENGAGEMENT OF THE TRANSMISSION FROM THE PARK POSITION OR AFFECT PROPER NEUTRAL START SWITCH OPERATION. UNINTENDED VEHICLE MOVEMENT COULD OCCUR IF THE PARKING BRAKE WAS NOT SET.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2005028304,417 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, the speed control deactivation switch may overheat, smoke, or burn, potentially resulting in an underhood fire. The condition may occur either when the vehicle is parked or when it is in operation. Correction: Initially as an interim repair, owners will be instructed to return their vehicles to their dealers to have the speed control deactivation switch disconnected. As soon as replacement parts are available, owners will be instructed to return to the dealers for installation of a new switch or fused wiring harness.
Recall 2004164305,024 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, Ford has issued a scheduled maintenance guide update which specifies that every 20 000 kms, the steering linkage, which includes tie-rod ends, should be inspected. The vehicle owner is asked to place the tie-rod end inspection procedure supplied with this maintenance guide update in the vehicle's glove box for reference and safekeeping. The vehicle owner is to provide the inspection procedure to their repair facility to help properly identify worn tie-rod ends. Performing the vehicle scheduled maintenance, including maintenance inspections, is the responsibility of the vehicle owner. Failure to replace worn tie-rod ends may eventually result in a tie-rod end separation that could adversely affect steering control. If the inspection reveals that a tie-rod end is worn and must be replaced, the repair will be at the owner's expense unless the vehicle is still covered by the basic vehicle warranty, or has an extended service plan coverage that includes these components.
Recall 200314110,942 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, the intermediate steering shaft yoke may not have been properly seated onto the steering gear input shaft during installation. In this condition, the yoke may not be properly clamped to the input shaft. This may result in separation of the yoke from the steering gear input shaft and a loss of steering control, potentially resulting in a vehicle crash. Correction: Dealer will inspect the steering intermediate shaft yoke. If the yoke is not fully seated and the bolt groove and spline is visible, the intermediate shaft and bolt will be replaced as well as the bolt at the steering column connection.
Recall 200007923,801 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles, the trailer hitch assembly attachment bolts may lose clamp load. If the operator does not notice the condition due to rattle or other looseness of the trailer hitch assembly, there is a potential for the trailer hitch to separate from the vehicle. Correction: Trailer hitch mounting bolts and nut plates will be replaced with higher strength mounting bolts and nut plates installed at a higher torque and including an adhesive patch.
Recall 1998095141,580 units in Canada
Suspension
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE LUG NUTS ON THESE VEHICLES MAY NOT CREATE SUFFICIENT CLAMP LOAD ALLOWING WHEEL MOVEMENT IN RELATION TO THE HUB/ROTOR MOUNTING SURFACE. THIS COULD RESULT IN LOOSENING OF THE LUG NUTS, STUD FATIGUE FAILURE, AND THE POTENTIAL FOR A WHEEL TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE. CORRECTION: WHEEL STUDS WILL BE INSPECTED AND WHEEL LUG NUTS WILL BE REPLACED WITH REVISED VERSIONS.
Recall 199718072,763 units in Canada
Structure
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE AUTOMATIC SHIFT CABLE ASSEMBLY MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SEATED AND COULD SEPARATE FROM THE STEERING COLUMN BRACKET. SHOULD THIS OCCUR, THE OPERATOR WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION FROM ONE OF THE DRIVE GEAR POSITION INTO THE PARK POSITION EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SELECTOR WOULD INDICATE "PARK". THIS COULD RESULT IN UNINTENDED VEHICLE MOVEMENT IF THE PARKING BRAKE IS NOT SET. CORRECTION: SHIFT CONTROL CABLE WILL BE PROPERLY ATTACHED TO THE STEERING COLUMN BRACKET AND A TIE STRAP WILL BE ADDED TO THAT CONNECTION AS A REDUNDANT MEASURE TO SECURE THE ATTACHMENT.
Recall 19970989 units in Canada
Other
THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH C.M.V.S.S 115 - VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER. THE FOURTH CHARACTERS OF THE V.I.N. PLATE WHICH IS AFFIXED TO THE INSTRUMENT PANEL ARE CODED "F" RATHER THAN "E". "E" IS THE APPROPRIATE CODE FOR THESE 7000 POUND GVWR VEHICLES. AS A CONSEQUENCE, THE NINTH CHARACTER (CHECK DIGIT) OF THE V.I.N. IS ALSO INCORRECT. ONLY THE V.I.N. PLATE IS IN ERROR. THE SAFETY CERTIFICATION LABELS AND OTHER DOCUMENTS ON WHICH THE VEHICLE'S V.I.N. IS LISTED DISPLAY THE CORRECT V.I.N. CORRECTION: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE INCORRECT V.I.N. PLATES.
Recall 19970111,630 units in Canada
Suspension
THE REAR AXLE TRACK BRACKET MAY SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME DUE TO MISSING WELDS OR A WELD PATTERN THAT IS NOT COMPATIBLE WITH THE DESIGN OF THE BRACKET. ALSO, THE REAR AXLE LOWER CONTROL ARM BRACKET MAY SEPARATE DUE TO INADEQUATE WELD PENETRATION. IF EITHER OF THESE CONDITIONS OCCURS THE VEHICLE CAN BE EASILY CONTROLLED AND BROUGHT TO A STOP. HOWEVER, IF BOTH BRACKETS WERE TO SEPARATE, THE REAR AXLE WOULD BE FREE TO MOVE LATERALLY UNTIL THE TIRES CONTACT EITHER THE FRAME OR WHEELHOUSE. THIS COULD RESULT IN EITHER TIRE DAMAGE OR A SIGNIFICANT REDUCTION IN VEHICLE HANDLING PERFORMANCE. CORRECTION: A TRACK BAR BRACKET REINFORCEMENT KIT WILL BE INSTALLED AND THE AXLE TUBES WILL BE INSPECTED AND REPLACED IF NECESSARY.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 3 milesHawkinsville, GACrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
WHILE COMING TO A STOP AND THE INTERSECTION OF LONGSTREET AND HIGHWAY 82. I PRESSED ON THE BRAKE PEDDLE AND THE BRAKES LOCKED UP AND I SLED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION INTO A DITCH. I WAS TRAVELING THE SPEED LIMIT OF 50 MPH. THE PASSENGER AIR BAG DEPLOYED BUT THE DRIVERS DID NOT DEPLOY. I HAVE A BROKEN NOSE FROM HITTING STEERING WHEEL. SEAT BELTS WERE ON FRONT SEAT DRIVER AND PASSENGER.
NHTSA complaint #11383877 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 3 milesHawkinsville, GACrash2 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
WHILE COMING TO A STOP AND THE INTERSECTION OF LONGSTREET AND HIGHWAY 82. I PRESSED ON THE BRAKE PEDDLE AND THE BRAKES LOCKED UP AND I SLED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION INTO A DITCH. I WAS TRAVELING THE SPEED LIMIT OF 50 MPH. THE PASSENGER AIR BAG DEPLOYED BUT THE DRIVERS DID NOT DEPLOY. I HAVE A BROKEN NOSE FROM HITTING STEERING WHEEL. SEAT BELTS WERE ON FRONT SEAT DRIVER AND PASSENGER.
NHTSA complaint #11383877 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 261,900 milesSmithfield, UTCrash
STEERING
STEERING IS EXTREMELY OVERACTIVE AND SEEMS TWITCHING, MEANING AT LOW SPEED OR AT HIGH RATE OF TRAVEL VERY SLIGHT MOVEMENTS OF THE STEERING WHEEL CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO MOVE SUDDENLY, AND UNCONTROLLABLY, PREVIOUS OWNER WENT OFF HIGHWAY AND FELT UNSAFE IN VEHICLE BECAUSE OF THIS ISSUE. I IMAGINE THIS HAS TO DO WITH THE VARIABLE ASSIST POWER STEERING BUT CANNOT FIND ANY DIAGNOSTIC AIDE IN RESOLUTION OF ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #11343190 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesRenton, WACrash
POWER TRAIN
THE VEHICLE WOULD THEN NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION FROM ONE OF THE DRIVE GEAR POSITIONS INTO THE PARK POSITION EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT SELECTOR WOULD INDICATE "PARK. HAVE ACCIDENT, THE CAR ROLL OVER TO ANOTHER CAR, I CAN"T PARK DOWN HILL IS TO DANGERS, IS TOT SAFETY .
NHTSA complaint #10703148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesRenton, WACrash
POWER TRAIN
THE VEHICLE WOULD THEN NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION FROM ONE OF THE DRIVE GEAR POSITIONS INTO THE PARK POSITION EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT SELECTOR WOULD INDICATE "PARK. HAVE ACCIDENT, THE CAR ROLL OVER TO ANOTHER CAR, I CAN"T PARK DOWN HILL IS TO DANGERS, IS NOT SAFETY .
NHTSA complaint #10703149 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesRenton, WACrash
STRUCTURE:BODY
THE VEHICLE WOULD THEN NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION FROM ONE OF THE DRIVE GEAR POSITIONS INTO THE PARK POSITION EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT SELECTOR WOULD INDICATE "PARK. HAVE ACCIDENT, THE CAR ROLL OVER TO ANOTHER CAR, I CAN"T PARK DOWN HILL IS TO DANGERS, IS TOT SAFETY .
NHTSA complaint #10703148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 171,000 milesToledo, OH
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
The contact owns a 1997 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the steering wheel became loosened while making a left turn. The contact stated that the "Check Suspension" and "Check ABS" messages were displayed on the instrument panel along with the oil, brake, and battery warning lights being illuminated. The contact called a local dealer and was informed that the part needed to repair the steering wheel was no longer in stock. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and the contact was provided the same information as from the dealer. The contact also stated that moisture had begun to leak from the sunroof. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 171,000.
NHTSA complaint #11591275 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 171,000 milesToledo, OH
STEERING
The contact owns a 1997 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the steering wheel became loosened while making a left turn. The contact stated that the "Check Suspension" and "Check ABS" messages were displayed on the instrument panel along with the oil, brake, and battery warning lights being illuminated. The contact called a local dealer and was informed that the part needed to repair the steering wheel was no longer in stock. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and the contact was provided the same information as from the dealer. The contact also stated that moisture had begun to leak from the sunroof. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 171,000.
NHTSA complaint #11591275 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Grand Prarie, TX
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
Vehicle will speed up or slow down in certain times for certain speeds without notice smell of smok and looked hurt wiring
NHTSA complaint #11458221 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Grand Prarie, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Vehicle will speed up or slow down in certain times for certain speeds without notice smell of smok and looked hurt wiring
NHTSA complaint #11458221 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 3 milesHawkinsville, GACrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
WHILE COMING TO A STOP AND THE INTERSECTION OF LONGSTREET AND HIGHWAY 82. I PRESSED ON THE BRAKE PEDDLE AND THE BRAKES LOCKED UP AND I SLED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION INTO A DITCH. I WAS TRAVELING THE SPEED LIMIT OF 50 MPH. THE PASSENGER AIR BAG DEPLOYED BUT THE DRIVERS DID NOT DEPLOY. I HAVE A BROKEN NOSE FROM HITTING STEERING WHEEL. SEAT BELTS WERE ON FRONT SEAT DRIVER AND PASSENGER.
NHTSA complaint #11383877 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 3 milesHawkinsville, GACrash2 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
WHILE COMING TO A STOP AND THE INTERSECTION OF LONGSTREET AND HIGHWAY 82. I PRESSED ON THE BRAKE PEDDLE AND THE BRAKES LOCKED UP AND I SLED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION INTO A DITCH. I WAS TRAVELING THE SPEED LIMIT OF 50 MPH. THE PASSENGER AIR BAG DEPLOYED BUT THE DRIVERS DID NOT DEPLOY. I HAVE A BROKEN NOSE FROM HITTING STEERING WHEEL. SEAT BELTS WERE ON FRONT SEAT DRIVER AND PASSENGER.
NHTSA complaint #11383877 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 225,000 milesAugusta, KS
ENGINE
MY 1997 FORD EXPEDITION XLT BEIGE IN COLOR SINCE I HAVE OWN THIS VEHICLE I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE FIVE (5) SPARK PLUGS AND COIL FOR THEY HAVE BLOWN OUT OF THE CYLINDER AND I HAVE HAD TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED INTO A REPAIR FACILITY WHICH HAVE BEEN COSTLY TO ME. THE ENGINE ON THIS VEHICLE IS A 5.4. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AT THE TIME OF THE PROBLEM ON THE HIGHWAY
NHTSA complaint #11365980 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 261,900 milesSmithfield, UTCrash
STEERING
STEERING IS EXTREMELY OVERACTIVE AND SEEMS TWITCHING, MEANING AT LOW SPEED OR AT HIGH RATE OF TRAVEL VERY SLIGHT MOVEMENTS OF THE STEERING WHEEL CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO MOVE SUDDENLY, AND UNCONTROLLABLY, PREVIOUS OWNER WENT OFF HIGHWAY AND FELT UNSAFE IN VEHICLE BECAUSE OF THIS ISSUE. I IMAGINE THIS HAS TO DO WITH THE VARIABLE ASSIST POWER STEERING BUT CANNOT FIND ANY DIAGNOSTIC AIDE IN RESOLUTION OF ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #11343190 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 190,000 milesWashougal, WA
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
WHEN EXAMINING MY VEHICLE WHICH SUPPOSEDLY HAD A RECALL ON THE CRUISE CONTROL SENSOR ON BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER, FOUND THAT FORD ONLY ADDED A FUSABLE LINK TO PREVENT FIRE AS THE SENSOR MAY NOT HAVE BEEN LEAKING AT THE TIME. IT HAS SINCE LEAKED AND THE ADDED BIT OF WIRE WITH THE BLUE TAG HAS BLOWN IT'S FUSES BUT I BELIEVE THE CRUISE CONTROL HAS NOW DISABLED MY HORN DURRING OPERATION. I AM REQUESTING MY VEHICLE BE SERVICED PROPERLY AS THE RECALL WAS NOT DONE CORRECTLY TO MY UNDERSTANDING. I WAS LOOKING ONLINE AND JUST REALIZED THIS SO I LOOKED AT MY VEHICLE AND SAW IT IS THE OLD DESIGN.
NHTSA complaint #11325759 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 190,000 milesWashougal, WA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
WHEN EXAMINING MY VEHICLE WHICH SUPPOSEDLY HAD A RECALL ON THE CRUISE CONTROL SENSOR ON BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER, FOUND THAT FORD ONLY ADDED A FUSABLE LINK TO PREVENT FIRE AS THE SENSOR MAY NOT HAVE BEEN LEAKING AT THE TIME. IT HAS SINCE LEAKED AND THE ADDED BIT OF WIRE WITH THE BLUE TAG HAS BLOWN IT'S FUSES BUT I BELIEVE THE CRUISE CONTROL HAS NOW DISABLED MY HORN DURRING OPERATION. I AM REQUESTING MY VEHICLE BE SERVICED PROPERLY AS THE RECALL WAS NOT DONE CORRECTLY TO MY UNDERSTANDING. I WAS LOOKING ONLINE AND JUST REALIZED THIS SO I LOOKED AT MY VEHICLE AND SAW IT IS THE OLD DESIGN.
NHTSA complaint #11325759 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 190,000 milesDaly City, CA
STEERING
TAKATA RECALL, MY STEERING IS BAD LIKE IM FISHTAILING ON THE FREEWAY, WHEN I HIT A BUMP IT PULLS TO ONE SIDE. THERES ALOT OF PLAY IN THE STEERING WHEEL.
NHTSA complaint #11156712 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 190,000 milesDaly City, CA
SUSPENSION
TAKATA RECALL, MY STEERING IS BAD LIKE IM FISHTAILING ON THE FREEWAY, WHEN I HIT A BUMP IT PULLS TO ONE SIDE. THERES ALOT OF PLAY IN THE STEERING WHEEL.
NHTSA complaint #11156712 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 180,000 milesSpringfield, MO
STEERING
THE STEERING IS VERY LOOSE AND HARD TO KEEP ON ROAD, I CALLED FORD HEADQUARTERS TO SEE IF IT WAS UNDER RECALL AND THEY SAID NOT MY VIN WAS INCLUDED. I ALSO HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THE O/D LIGHT BLINKING. MY TRANSMISSION SHIFT GREAT UNTIL THE LIGHT STARTS BLINKING.I THINK IT IS A BAD CRUISE CONTROL SENSOR. I READ WHERE A LOT OF THOSE SHORTED OUT AND STARTED FIRES.
NHTSA complaint #11140296 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 180,000 milesSpringfield, MO
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
THE STEERING IS VERY LOOSE AND HARD TO KEEP ON ROAD, I CALLED FORD HEADQUARTERS TO SEE IF IT WAS UNDER RECALL AND THEY SAID NOT MY VIN WAS INCLUDED. I ALSO HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THE O/D LIGHT BLINKING. MY TRANSMISSION SHIFT GREAT UNTIL THE LIGHT STARTS BLINKING.I THINK IT IS A BAD CRUISE CONTROL SENSOR. I READ WHERE A LOT OF THOSE SHORTED OUT AND STARTED FIRES.
NHTSA complaint #11140296 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 189,000 milesTonica, IL
SUSPENSION
WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, AS SOON AS I GO FASTER THAN 55MPH THE VEHICLE DOWN BY THE WHEELS, STARTS SHAKING. I CAN FEEL IT IN THE STEERING WHEEL. I SUSPECT IT'S THE BALL JOINTS BUT NOT SURE. IT ALSO WOBBLES WHEN TURNING GOING AS SLOW AS 25 MPH.
NHTSA complaint #11090884 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 195,000 milesTonica, IL
ENGINE
COIL PACK, SPARK PLUG ISSUE. MY EXPEDITION SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS "MISSING". NOT SURE WHEN I 1ST HEARD IT. I TOOK IT IN FOR SOME MAINTENANCE- OIL CHANGE, CHANGE SPARK PLUGS, BASIC TUNE UP. BUT I WAS TOLD BY THE SHOP THAT THE COIL PACK/SPARK PLUGS WERE DEFECTIVE & IF I ATTENPTED TO CHANGE THE PLUGS & COULD THAT THERE IS A GOOD CHANCE IT WILL BLOW THE HEAD. THE SHOP REFUSED TO CHANGE THE PLUGS N COILS. STATING THAT THEY WILL NOT ATTEMPT IT, BEING AS THEY DO NOT WANT TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE HEAD. SO, I HAVE TO LIVE WITH A DEFECTIVE ENGINE. FORD NEEDS TO OWN UP TO THE PROBLEM. IF THIS BLOWS WHILE I DRIVE IT & ANYONE GETS INJURED AS A RESULT, I WILL SUE FORD. THE 97 EXPEDITION IS A GREAT SUV. BUT I CAN'T BELIEVE THE COIL PACK/SPARK PLUG ISSUE HAS NOT BEEN INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS! THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS & DANGEROUS & EXPENSIVE PROBLEM. SHAME ON YOU, FORD.
NHTSA complaint #11090882 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Crimora, VA
STEERING
THE STEERING ON THE VEHICLE IS LOOSE AND WONDERS ALL OVER THE ROAD CONTACTED A MECHANIC AND HE TOLD ME WHERE STEERING SHAFT SLIDES TOGETHER IS REALLY LOOS AND STEERING SHAFT NEEDS REPLACED
NHTSA complaint #11035550 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,000 milesPalm Harbor, FL
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I KNOW FOR A FACT THERE WAS A MASSIVE RECALL ON THE MODEL. THE CRUISE CONTROL MALFUNCTIONS AND CATCHES ON FIRE WHEN THE KEY IS NOT IN THE IGNITION. MOST OF THE F-150 ENGINE FIRES WERE TRACED BACK TO A FAULTY CRUISE CONTROL. THE VEHICLES USUALLY BURNED WHEN THE VEHICLE HAS 160-180,000 MILES ON THE SPEEDOMETER. MY 2000 FORD EXPEDITION BURNED CAUGHT MY HOME ON FIRE AND NEARLY KILLED THREE PEOPLE AND SEVERAL PETS. THE VEHICLE IN QUESTION BELONGS TO A GOOD FRIEND. THEY MENTIONED IN PASSING THAT THE CRUISE CONTROL IS MALFUNCTIONING. THIS VEHICLE IS EXHIBITING THE EXACT SAME SYMPTOMS THAT MY EXPEDITION DID JUST BEFORE IT CAUGHT FIRE. I UNPLUGGED MY FRIENDS EXPEDITION CRUISE CONTROL. I AM SHOCKED THIS VEHICLE IS NO LONGER ON THE RECALL LIST. IF THIS VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED DURING THE RECALL IT WOULD NOT BE MALFUNCTIONING NOW.
NHTSA complaint #11006506 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 221,613 milesNEW Bern, NC
ENGINE
STARTED VEHICLE AND IMMEDIATELY HEARD LOUD NOISE UNDER HOOD. FOUND SPARK PLUG HAD BLOWN OUT OF HEAD. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AT TIME, BUT HAD BEEN DRIVEN WITHOUT PROBLEM JUST A COUPLE OF HOURS EARLIER.
NHTSA complaint #10966207 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Luttrell, TN
SUSPENSION
MY BRAKE WENT TO THE FLOOR WHEN I STARTED TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE LAST WEEK. I WAS GOING TO AVE MY BAKES REPLACED TODAY WHEN THE MECHANIC NOTICED THAT THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS WERE VERY RUSTED IT HAS PIECES BREAKING OFF AND THERE IS ACTUALLY A HOLE IN THE REAR DRIVER SIDE LOWER CONTROL ARM. THE METAL BRAKE LINES IS ALSO RUSTED IN TWO. HE LOOKED AT MY 1998 EXPIDITION AND THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS ON THE BACK OF IT ARE ALSO RUSTED OUT. HE SAIDIDN'T I SHOULD NOT DRIVE EITHER OF THEM UNTIL THEY ARE REPLACED. I'M WONDERING IF THERE IS A RECALL ON THESE.
NHTSA complaint #10925688 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Luttrell, TN
SERVICE BRAKES
MY BRAKE WENT TO THE FLOOR WHEN I STARTED TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE LAST WEEK. I WAS GOING TO AVE MY BAKES REPLACED TODAY WHEN THE MECHANIC NOTICED THAT THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS WERE VERY RUSTED IT HAS PIECES BREAKING OFF AND THERE IS ACTUALLY A HOLE IN THE REAR DRIVER SIDE LOWER CONTROL ARM. THE METAL BRAKE LINES IS ALSO RUSTED IN TWO. HE LOOKED AT MY 1998 EXPIDITION AND THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS ON THE BACK OF IT ARE ALSO RUSTED OUT. HE SAIDIDN'T I SHOULD NOT DRIVE EITHER OF THEM UNTIL THEY ARE REPLACED. I'M WONDERING IF THERE IS A RECALL ON THESE.
NHTSA complaint #10925688 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 220,000 milesLexington, SC
SUSPENSION
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE DRIVING AT 10 MPH, AN ABNORMAL SOUND WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE. THE FAILURE RECURRED CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 96V252000 (SUSPENSION). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 220,000.
NHTSA complaint #10853802 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 170,000 milesTaylorsville, KY
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO REMAIN IN POSITION. THE CONTACT HAD TO STEER THE VEHICLE IN EXCESS TO KEEP THE VEHICLE IN POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING SHAFT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS AWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V196000 (STEERING), BUT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
NHTSA complaint #10849692 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 190,000 milesOAK Harbor, WA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MISCELLANEOUS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS CAUSED BY WATER LEAKING FROM DRIVER'S SIDE WINDSHIELD INTO THE FUSE BOX CAUSING, WINDSHIELD WIPERS TO QUIT. DOOR LOCK WON'T WORK, RADIO QUIT. PROBLEM IS NEVER THE SAME, DEPENDS ON WHERE THE WATER LEAK OCCURS. VERY SCARY AND DANGEROUS WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT IN THE RAIN.
NHTSA complaint #10810074 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 134,000 milesToledl, OH
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY AT 35 MPH, THERE WAS A KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEEL AND NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL WAS BECOMING LOOSE. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT WAS LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V196000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 134,000.
NHTSA complaint #10778718 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.