The Good
The 2018 Expedition MAX excels with its robust performance from the EcoBoost V6, delivering ample power for towing and daily driving. Its refined ride quality and quiet cabin ensure exceptional comfort for long journeys, appealing to families seeking a serene travel experience. Practical buyers appreciate its vast cargo space and high towing capacity, while its modern design and advanced tech features offer emotional appeal and convenience.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 2018 Ford Expedition MAX include its substantial size, which can make maneuvering in tight spaces challenging, and its relatively high fuel consumption despite the EcoBoost's efficiency claims. Some owners have reported concerns regarding the 10-speed automatic transmission's shifting behavior and potential infotainment system glitches. The large turning radius is also a practical consideration.
2018 Ford Expedition MAX: Quick Overview
Here's a summary of key specifications for the 2018 Ford Expedition MAX:
- Engine Options:
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (Standard across all trims)
- Horsepower:
- XLT and Limited: 375 hp @ 5,000 rpm
- Platinum: 400 hp @ 5,000 rpm (requires 93 octane fuel for full power)
- Torque:
- XLT and Limited: 470 lb-ft @ 2,250 rpm
- Platinum: 480 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2WD: 17 MPG City / 23 MPG Highway / 19 MPG Combined
- 4WD: 16 MPG City / 21 MPG Highway / 18 MPG Combined
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration:
- Around 6.0 - 6.2 seconds (impressive for its size)
- Maximum Towing Capacity:
- Up to 9,000 lbs when properly equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
- Key Trim-Level Features:
- XLT: Standard Ford SYNC 3 infotainment with an 8-inch touchscreen, power-folding third-row seats, push-button start, rearview camera, rear parking sensors.
- Limited: Adds leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, hands-free power liftgate, 20-inch wheels, B&O Play premium audio system, front parking sensors.
- Platinum: Includes unique exterior styling, adaptive dampers (Continuously Controlled Damping), active noise cancellation, panoramic sunroof, enhanced wood trim, power-deployable running boards, 360-degree camera.
- FX4 (available on XLT and Limited): Off-road package with skid plates, off-road shocks, limited-slip differential, unique 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires.
The Expedition MAX's extended wheelbase provides significantly more cargo space behind the third row compared to the standard Expedition.
2018 Ford Expedition MAX Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Expedition MAX |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.0L V8 |
| Engine Size | 5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Four-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
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 Ford Expedition MAX Have?
While generally reliable, the 2018 Ford Expedition MAX has had some frequently reported problems and recalls. A significant concern revolves around the 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners have reported issues ranging from harsh or erratic shifts, hesitation, and sometimes complete failure, especially at lower speeds or during downshifts. While Ford has issued software updates, some problems persist, leading to costly repairs if out of warranty.
Another area of concern involves the infotainment system (SYNC 3), with users reporting occasional freezing, unresponsiveness, or connectivity issues. While often resolved with software updates, it can be frustrating. Electrical glitches, such as power windows malfunctioning or accessory power issues, have also been noted by a smaller number of owners.
Recalls specific to the 2018 Expedition (which includes the MAX variant) include:
- NHTSA Recall 18V711000 (October 2018): Improperly torqued battery cable fasteners could result in an electrical arc and fire. This was a critical issue requiring inspection and proper torque.
- NHTSA Recall 18V758000 (November 2018): Seat belt pretensioner could deploy improperly during a crash due to incorrect programming, increasing injury risk.
- NHTSA Recall 19V044000 (January 2019): In some vehicles, the front seat track assembly could have improperly welded components, affecting seat strength in a crash.
- NHTSA Recall 19V840000 (November 2019): The body-side electrical harness may not have sufficient clearance, allowing contact with the front passenger seat frame. This could cause wire chafing, leading to electrical shorts and potentially a fire.
Long-term reliability often hinges on proper maintenance, but the transmission issues remain a significant watch point for this model year. Owners should ensure all recalls were addressed and be vigilant about transmission performance.
How long will the 2018 Ford Expedition MAX last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2018 Ford Expedition MAX came equipped with a comprehensive suite of built-in technology, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features.
Infotainment & Connectivity:
Standard on most trims is the SYNC 3 infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with pinch-to-zoom capability. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration, along with voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, and multiple USB ports. Navigation was optional, often bundled with higher trims. A highlight was the available B&O Play premium audio system by Harman, offering exceptional sound quality. Rear-seat entertainment systems, often with dual screens mounted on the back of the front seats, were also optional.
Driver-Assistance Features:
Available driver-assistance technologies significantly enhanced safety and convenience. These included:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go: Automatically adjusts speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Lane-Keeping System: Alerts and assists the driver in staying within their lane.
- Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection: Uses radar and camera technology to detect potential collisions and can automatically apply brakes.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns of vehicles in blind spots and approaching traffic when backing up.
- Active Park Assist: Helps with parallel and perpendicular parking maneuvers.
- 360-Degree Camera with Split-View Display: Provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, very useful for parking a large SUV.
- Enhanced Active Park Assist: Adds reverse perpendicular parking and park out assist.
Safety Features & Crash Ratings:
Standard safety features included a full complement of airbags (front, side-impact, side curtain for all three rows), anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, stability control, and a rearview camera. Ford's MyKey system allowed owners to set restrictions for secondary drivers. For crash-test ratings, the 2018 Ford Expedition (including MAX variant) earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It received 5 stars in frontal crash and side crash tests, and 3 stars in the rollover test. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) did not conduct full evaluations on the 2018 Expedition, but its forward collision warning system received a "Superior" rating, and its headlights varied from "Poor" to "Good" depending on trim and options.
What Colors Options are Available?
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2018 Ford Expedition MAX Prices and Market Value
2018 Ford Expedition MAX Cost of Ownership
2018 Ford Expedition MAX Fuel Efficiency
2018 Ford Expedition MAX Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Ford Expedition MAX Compare to Other Wagon?
The 2018 Ford Expedition MAX competes in the fiercely contested full-size SUV segment, primarily against its traditional rivals:
- Chevrolet Suburban / GMC Yukon XL: These GM twins are the Expedition MAX's most direct competitors.
- Toyota Sequoia: Offers legendary reliability but an older design and less efficient powertrain.
- Nissan Armada: A strong V8, but also an older platform with less cargo flexibility.
Performance: The Expedition MAX's 3.5L EcoBoost V6 often outperforms its V8-powered rivals in terms of acceleration and fuel economy, especially the naturally aspirated ones like the Sequoia and Armada. Its 0-60 mph time of around 6 seconds is exceptional for its class. The GM twins' V8s offer strong, traditional power delivery, but might feel less refined in urban driving compared to the Expedition's torque-rich turbo V6.
Features: The 2018 Expedition MAX debuted a new generation, bringing a thoroughly modern interior, advanced SYNC 3 infotainment, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features that were very competitive at the time. Its power-folding second and third rows, and vast cargo space (especially with the MAX length) often surpass rivals. The GM SUVs offer similar levels of luxury and tech, while the Sequoia and Armada typically lag in infotainment and advanced safety features for this model year.
Reliability: While the Expedition MAX offers a strong foundation, its 10-speed transmission has been a noted point of concern, potentially affecting long-term reliability. The Toyota Sequoia is arguably the benchmark for reliability in this segment. The GM SUVs generally have a good reputation, though some years may have specific issues. Nissan Armada is considered reliable but less refined.
Price: New, the Expedition MAX was competitively priced with the Suburban/Yukon XL. Used, their prices tend to be quite similar, with factors like mileage and condition being paramount. The Sequoia often commands a premium due to its strong reliability reputation, while the Armada can sometimes be found for slightly less.
Recommendations:
- For overall balance of power, efficiency, and modern features: The 2018 Expedition MAX is a strong contender.
- For ultimate reliability and proven longevity (but older tech): The Toyota Sequoia is a safer bet.
- For a very similar alternative with V8 power: The Chevrolet Suburban / GMC Yukon XL are excellent choices, offering comparable space and utility.
- If budget is a primary concern and a V8 is preferred: The Nissan Armada could be a value option, but expect less refinement and fuel economy.
The Expedition MAX stands out for its blend of performance, technology, and sheer interior volume. However, potential transmission issues should be a consideration when cross-shopping.
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Ford Expedition MAX a Good Wagon?
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.