Skip to content

Free public service · Official NHTSA & EPA data

2018 Ford Expedition Complaints

Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA

360

Total

8

Crashes

2

Fires

21

Injuries

0

Deaths

Most Reported Components

ENGINE
227
OTHER
25
SUSPENSION
23
LIGHTING
22
ELECTRICAL
14

Recent Complaints

ODI #11750757Crash

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 06/05/2026

The infotainment screen that includes the rear backup camera stopped working intermittently and then completely. The dealer's service department identified that the APIM, a module involved in operating the screen had failed. The backup camera is a significant and necessary safety feature for such a large vehicle. The dealer ordered the new part and replaced it at significant expense. There was no warning of this issue, and the only symptom was the intermittent delay of the infotainment system turning on upon startup of the vehicle.

ODI #11750763

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE — Filed 06/15/2026

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 vehicle was not eligible for assistance with these repairs and that my level of loyalty also did not make me eligible for assistance. I have maintained this vehicle with oil changes, fluid changes, tire and brake maintenance for the life of the vehicle. I would like the NHTSA to investigate Ford for a recall of the cam phasers and effected parts since this is a known and prominent issue that also impacts road safey.

ODI #11749566

POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE — Filed 07/10/2026

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V197000 (Seat Belts), 26V344000 (Seat Belts), 26V368000 (Structure), and 26V402000 (Power Train); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

ODI #11748093

VISIBILITY/WIPER — Filed 03/01/2026

Suspected Safety Defect – Windshield Wiper System Effected Vehicle Information Vehicle 1 - 2018 Ford Expedition MAX Vehicle 2 - 2017 Ford F-350 SuperCrew 4x4 Description of Defect Both vehicles experienced the same windshield wiper failure. The wipers gradually slowed, became sluggish, and eventually stopped working during normal use. Available repair information and owner reports indicate the likely cause is corrosion and seizure of the wiper pivot shafts and linkage, which overloads the motor and leads to failure. Safety Hazard Loss of wiper function in rain or poor weather severely reduces visibility and creates a serious crash risk, leaving drivers unable to operate safely. Evidence of a Broader Pattern This issue appears widespread. Many Ford owners report similar symptoms, including slowing wipers, increased resistance, seized pivots, and complete failure requiring linkage replacement. Technicians commonly identify seized pivot shafts as the cause. Ford has issued recalls on other models for wiper-related defects, recognizing the safety risk of sudden failure. Request for Investigation Because two separate vehicles experienced the same failure, I request that NHTSA investigate whether corrosion-related seizure of wiper components in 2017–2018 Ford Expedition and Super Duty vehicles is a broader safety defect. If confirmed, I request an appropriate remedy, such as a recall or extended warranty. I can provide supporting documentation if needed.

ODI #11748084

POWER TRAIN — Filed 07/02/2026

While driving on the interstate and merging to the next lane, my transmission shifted from 9th gear to 1st gear multiple times. My safety and others safety was put at risk due to the car suddenly slowing with no brake lights to indicate I would be slowing. During the incident, I lost approximately 5-10 miles per hour forward speed. The problem has not been looked at or replicated by a dealer at this time. This happened today, 7/2/2026. There have been no warning lamps or other symptoms to indicate a 9th gear to 1st gear change at highway speeds.

ODI #11747649

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 05/15/2026

Transmission stalled out in heavy traffic. We had our repair person check the vehicle and they confirmed there has been damage to the transmission due to this. It has not been inspected by police, manufacturer or insurance representatives. There were no warning lamps or messages.

ODI #11747439

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE — Filed 05/01/2025

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.

ODI #11744538

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 05/25/2026

Ford performed Emission Recall 24E13 on my vehicle. The corporate software update bricked the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), rendering the vehicle completely inoperable 30 miles later. Ford corporate is refusing to repair the damage caused by their mandatory safety campaign, leaving me stranded. The vehicle was towed back to the dealership the recall was performed. They ran a full diagnostics and confirmed the PCM is bricked.

ODI #11743419

POWER TRAIN — Filed 06/01/2026

We have and continue to experience severe transmission slipping in our 2018 expedition limited. It can create a dangerous loss of control situation when it slips severely or upshifts or downshifts rough.

ODI #11743289

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 06/17/2025

The trim moulding and roof rack.

About This Data

Complaints are filed by vehicle owners with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). They represent individual consumer experiences and do not necessarily indicate a widespread defect.

View on NHTSA.gov