2018 Ford Expedition engine problems
Updated from NHTSA data · How we count
116 owners have reported engine problems with the 2018 Ford Expedition, 34% of all complaints about this model year. The typical problem appeared around 81,354 mi.
- Engine complaints
- 116
- Crashes
- 1
- Fires
- 1
- Injuries
- 0
- Related recalls
- 0
- Median mileage
- 81,354 mi
Specific components reported
Engine covers: stalling, loss of power, oil consumption, overheating.
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| Engine | 96 |
| Engine and engine cooling | 22 |
| Engine and engine cooling:engine:crank/camshaft position sensor | 2 |
| Engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:emission control:catalytic convertor | 1 |
Engine complaints across Ford Expedition years
Mileage when the problem appeared
Related recalls
No recalls on file.
What owners say
- Filed Oct 2, 2026LAEngine
Vehicle was disabled multiple times after failures of the OEM coolant / heater hoses at plastic fittings. Hoses includes the primary radiator coolant hoses, bypass hoses and engine coolant hoses for the transmission cooler. First hose failure on 10/21/2022 (51,177) miles was repaired by Ford dealer in Davenport, FL. OEM replacement hoses have also failed.
NHTSA complaint #11768553 · source - Filed Sep 11, 2026SCEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
My 2018 Ford Expedition with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine has developed a pronounced rattling/knocking noise at startup. This appears consistent with the well documented cam phaser/VCT problem affecting this engine family. At approximately 118,212 miles, an independent Firestone Complete Auto Care inspected the vehicle and recommended major timing system repairs. Their estimate calls for replacement of the timing chain components and variable timing sprockets/cam phasers, with a…
NHTSA complaint #11763749 · source - Filed Jul 16, 2026KYEngineAcceleration & Cruise ControlTransmission & Drivetrain
I noticed a loud rattle when starting my 2018 Ford Expedition, at first occasionally and then on every cold start. The Ford Dealer's service department diagnosed a cam phaser issue. There were no warning lights or messages available to me, but the service department's diagnosis showed several timing faults. I was told the cam phaser repair is $4000 - $5000 and continued use puts the engine and transmission at risk. I contacted Ford customer service and was told that my…
NHTSA complaint #11750763 · source - Filed Jun 30, 2026MIElectrical SystemEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
Engine light stays on along with manual light and charging system service now. Battery, alternator changed out, 3 mechanic repair shops can not find what is wrong. Vehicle bogs down and does not run right when the Manuel light comes one which is about 2 times a week.
NHTSA complaint #11747439 · source - Filed May 17, 2026CAEngine
After Fords most recent recall for a PCM software update at the dealer the car immediately runs different and after full engine temperatures sounds like marbles or valve train issues including low rpm noise and transmission shutter between shifts. Dealer says there is no problem they can find and that I need new turbos. Very suspicious that after a PCM flash the car is now unable to drive. The car had NO issues prior to recall service and only has 70,000mi
NHTSA complaint #11738377 · source - Filed May 9, 2026TXEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
Transmission will randomly over shift or down shift when driving. When turning left I have had the transmission over shift from 2nd to 8th causing the car to bog down and could not accelerate in the intersection. I was almost hit from behind on one occasion and had hit on the side another time. I do not feel comfortable making turns without having a protected right away. Ford have changed the transmission, reset the programming for the transmission and ford technician said…
NHTSA complaint #11736798 · source - Filed May 8, 2026MAElectrical SystemEngine
my car is a 2018 we bought it used in 2020 we had to had the transmission flushed and coils replaced . that didn't work . we had drum issues and gear slippage . now i. have to put a new transmission in the car
NHTSA complaint #11736669 · source - Filed Apr 17, 202635,540 miOHEngine
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with camshaft phaser and timing chain failures. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 35,540.
NHTSA complaint #11731887 · source - Filed Apr 6, 2026OHEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
Vehicle experienced catastrophic timing system failure causing engine to jump time and stall at idle, creating a safety hazard due to risk of sudden loss of power. This is a repeat issue originally documented under warranty (2020) and again during recall/service program 21N03 (2021), where repair was declined as “not severe enough.” Recall 24E13 (software update intended to prevent timing chain failure) was completed in 2025, but failed to prevent this exact condition.…
NHTSA complaint #11729374 · source - Filed Mar 21, 2026TXEngine
I am writing to express concern regarding a significant engine issue with my 2018 Ford Expedition. At approximately 122,000 miles, the vehicle developed a cylinder 4 misfire accompanied by low compression, indicating an internal engine failure. This type of issue seems premature for a well-maintained vehicle and has resulted in major repair considerations, including potential engine replacement. Given Ford’s reputation for durability and reliability, I find this failure both…
NHTSA complaint #11726007 · source - Filed Feb 5, 2026VAEngine
My cam phasers failed. I had a 6 year, 72k mile warranty. All maintenance was done at the dealership at the correct time. The parts failed at 7 years, 75,600 miles. Had to replace the engine. Dealer wanted to charge me $19000. Found a local shop to do it with new Ford engine for $14000. The cam phasers are a known issue. There are hundreds of vehicles out there that have had the same problem.
NHTSA complaint #11715730 · source - Filed Dec 16, 202593,000 miNCEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving over 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled on two occasions. The contact stated that while driving a roundabout, the vehicle lost motive power. The accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle jerked and was sluggish, and there was no area to pull over to. Upon parking the vehicle, the power train warning light was illuminated. The contact called an independent mechanic who was unable to service the…
NHTSA complaint #11705393 · source
Other 2018 Ford Expedition problem areas
- Transmission & Drivetrain (142)
- Other / Unknown (34)
- Electrical System (27)
- Suspension (19)
- Lighting (16)
- Body & Structure (14)
- Acceleration & Cruise Control (12)
- Seats & Seat Belts (10)
- Fuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion (9)
- Wheels & Tires (8)
- Brakes (8)
- Visibility & Wipers (6)
- Airbags (4)
- Steering (1)
- Driver Assistance & Safety Tech (1)
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology