The Good
The 2001 Ford Excursion offers formidable performance, especially in towing, appealing to practical buyers. Its spacious interior and imposing presence provide a sense of security and command, attracting emotional buyers. While not fuel-efficient, its rugged design and potential longevity can be advantages. Reliability can be good with proper maintenance.
The Bad
The 2001 Ford Excursion's significant weaknesses include poor fuel economy. It is a large vehicle making it difficult to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Rust, especially in areas with road salt, can be a problem. Suspension components and ball joints may require attention due to the vehicle's weight.
2001 Ford Excursion: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 5.4L Triton V8: Around 255 horsepower
- 6.8L Triton V10: Around 310 horsepower
- 7.3L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8: Around 275 horsepower (Early 2001), 275-hp (Late 2001)
- Horsepower: Varies by engine, as noted above.
- Fuel Economy: Poor; Expect 10-14 MPG depending on engine and driving conditions. Diesel engines may offer slightly better mileage.
- 0–60 Times: Not a primary focus for this vehicle. Expect around 10-12 seconds depending on engine and load.
- Towing Capacity: A major selling point. Can tow upwards of 10,000 lbs depending on configuration and engine.
- Trim-Level Features:
- XLT: Standard features include cloth upholstery, air conditioning, AM/FM radio, and basic power features.
- Eddie Bauer: Adds two-tone exterior paint, upgraded cloth or leather upholstery, upgraded audio system, and various convenience features.
- Limited: Top-of-the-line trim with leather upholstery, premium audio system, power-adjustable seats, and other luxury features like automatic climate control.
- Additional Notes: All trims featured a solid front axle, body on frame construction, and offered 4x4 capability. Options such as rear entertainment systems, upgraded wheels, and various towing packages were also available.
2001 Ford Excursion Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2001 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Excursion |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | JEFFERSON COUNTY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 9000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 6.8L V10 |
| Engine Size | 6.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2001 Ford Excursion Have?
The automatic transmissions (4R100) can experience issues with high mileage, particularly when frequently towing heavy loads. Check engine lights are common, often related to emissions control systems or sensor failures.
Recalls for the 2001 model year were issued related to potential fuel leakage and brake issues. Long-term reliability concerns center around the longevity of the engine, transmission, and suspension.
Specifically, watch for oil leaks from the engine and transmission. It's also important to inspect the undercarriage for signs of rust and corrosion. The vacuum pump for the four-wheel-drive system is also a common failure point. It's crucial to address these issues promptly to prevent more significant problems down the road. Thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended before purchasing a used 2001 Excursion.
How long will the 2001 Ford Excursion last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were minimal compared to modern vehicles. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. Optional features included power-adjustable pedals and rear parking sensors (on higher trims).
Safety features included front airbags. Side airbags were not available. The Excursion, due to its size and weight, was generally considered a safe vehicle in a collision. However, official NHTSA crash-test ratings are limited. Due to its height, rollover risk was a consideration.
Optional features included a rear-seat entertainment system with a VCR player (a novelty at the time), and a trip computer.
Overall, the 2001 Excursion prioritized functionality and size over advanced technology. Focus was on providing a capable and spacious vehicle rather than incorporating cutting-edge features found in later models.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2001 Ford Excursion Prices and Market Value
2001 Ford Excursion Cost of Ownership
2001 Ford Excursion Fuel Efficiency
2001 Ford Excursion Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2001 Ford Excursion Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
Reliability is comparable across the board, with all three requiring regular maintenance. The Excursion's 7.3L diesel can be very reliable if maintained, but can be costly to repair when issues arise. Price-wise, the Excursion tended to command a slight premium on the used market, especially for diesel models.
Alternatives might include newer, more fuel-efficient SUVs like the Ford Expedition or Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, but they won't offer the same immense towing capacity or interior space. For similar towing capabilities, a modern heavy-duty pickup truck might be a better option, providing better fuel economy and updated features at a potentially higher price point.
Ranks #709 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 709 | 2001 Ford Excursion | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Ford Excursion a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
John S. on March 18, 2025
Reliable but ThirstyThis Excursion has been a workhorse for our family. It's incredibly spacious and comfortable for long road trips. The gas mileage is definitely its biggest drawback, but for hauling and passenger capacity, it's hard to beat.
Sarah M. on March 18, 2025
Great for Large FamiliesWe bought this Excursion used and it has been a lifesaver. Fits all the kids, their friends, and all our gear. Maintenance can be a bit pricey, but overall a solid vehicle.
Mike L. on March 18, 2025
Powerful Towing MachineI use my Excursion for towing my boat. It handles it with ease. The engine is strong and reliable. I've had to replace some parts over the years, but nothing major.
Karen B. on March 18, 2025
Comfortable but DatedThe Excursion is very comfortable and spacious, but it's definitely showing its age. The technology is outdated and the interior is a bit worn. However, it's still a reliable vehicle for hauling.
David P. on March 18, 2025
King of the RoadThis vehicle is a beast! It's huge and powerful. It's not the most fuel-efficient, but it gets the job done. I feel safe and secure driving it.
Lisa R. on March 18, 2025
Maintenance Can Be ExpensiveWe've owned our Excursion for several years and it's been a good vehicle overall. However, maintenance can be expensive due to its size and age. Be prepared for higher repair bills.
Tom H. on March 18, 2025
Still Going StrongMy 2001 Excursion is still running strong after all these years. I've kept up with the maintenance and it's been a reliable vehicle. It's not the prettiest, but it's dependable.
Emily K. on March 18, 2025
Not the Best Fuel EconomyThe Excursion is great for hauling cargo and passengers, but the fuel economy is terrible. Be prepared to spend a lot on gas. Otherwise, it's a comfortable and capable vehicle.
Brian G. on March 18, 2025
Excellent for TowingI use my Excursion to tow a travel trailer. It handles the weight with ease. The engine has plenty of power and the transmission is strong. I highly recommend it for towing.
Susan A. on March 18, 2025
Lots of Space, but DatedThe Excursion has tons of space for passengers and cargo. However, it's an older vehicle, so don't expect modern features. It's still a reliable option if you need a large SUV.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.