The Good
The 1997 Ford Expedition offers immense practical advantages with its significant passenger and cargo space, strong V8 towing capacity, and durable body-on-frame construction. Emotionally, it provides a commanding road presence and a remarkably comfortable ride for long journeys, appealing to families seeking a secure, robust, and capable vehicle for adventures or daily utility, all at an accessible used market price.
The Bad
Potential buyers should be aware of the 1997 Ford Expedition's known weaknesses including poor fuel economy, susceptibility to rust on the frame and body, common transmission issues (especially the E4OD/4R100), spark plug ejection problems with the 5.4L Triton engine, and wear in front suspension components. Interior plastic durability can also be a concern over time.
1997 Ford Expedition: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1997 Ford Expedition offered two Triton V8 engine choices: the 4.6-liter V8 and the more powerful 5.4-liter V8.
- Horsepower: The 4.6L V8 produced approximately 215 horsepower, while the 5.4L V8 delivered around 230 horsepower, providing ample power for its size.
- Fuel Economy: Given its full-size nature, fuel economy was not a strong suit. Estimates were roughly 13-14 MPG in the city and 16-18 MPG on the highway for the 4.6L 2WD model, dropping slightly for the 5.4L 4WD versions.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph typically ranged from 9 to 10 seconds, depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration.
- Towing Capacity: One of the Expedition's standout features was its robust towing capability. When properly equipped, it could tow up to 8,000 pounds, making it a favorite for hauling boats, campers, and utility trailers.
- Trim-Level Features:
- XLT: This was the standard trim, offering a comprehensive set of features including air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, and an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. Cloth seating was standard, with an optional third-row seat to expand passenger capacity. Both 2WD and 4x4 configurations were available.
- Eddie Bauer: The more upscale Eddie Bauer trim built upon the XLT's features with luxurious additions. These included leather seating surfaces, upgraded alloy wheels, distinctive exterior two-tone paint schemes, a premium audio system, automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and typically included the 5.4L V8 engine and standard third-row seating for maximum comfort and utility.
1997 Ford Expedition Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1997 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Expedition |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WAYNE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | L-10 |
| Engine Size | 4.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | Automatic 4-Speed |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| 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
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Listings
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 1997 Ford Expedition Have?
Transmission problems are another significant concern, especially with the E4OD and later 4R100 automatic transmissions. Owners often report hard shifts, slippage, or complete transmission failure, particularly in vehicles that have been used for heavy towing or lack consistent fluid maintenance. These transmissions can be expensive to rebuild or replace.
Suspension and steering components are prone to wear over time. Ball joints, tie rods, and other front-end parts may require replacement as mileage accumulates, impacting steering precision and ride quality. Rear leaf springs can also sag or rust, affecting ride height and load-carrying ability. Rust is a pervasive long-term concern, affecting the frame, body panels, and critical components like brake lines, particularly in regions with harsh winters.
Electrical gremlins are not uncommon, with issues ranging from dashboard lights to more problematic HVAC blend door actuator failures, which prevent proper temperature control. Brake issues, such as premature wear of pads and rotors, or even ABS sensor failures, are also reported.
Regarding recalls, the 1997 Expedition, like many vehicles of its era, was subject to several. A notable recall involved the cruise control deactivation switch, which posed a fire risk due to potential short circuits. Owners should verify that all applicable recalls were addressed.
How long will the 1997 Ford Expedition last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
For entertainment, the standard offering was an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. Higher trims or optional packages might have included an in-dash CD player. Steering wheel-mounted audio controls were an available premium feature, typically found on the Eddie Bauer trim, allowing drivers to manage volume and stations without removing their hands from the wheel.
Driver-assistance features were minimal, primarily limited to cruise control for highway driving. No advanced systems like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, or automatic emergency braking were available, as these technologies were still decades away from mainstream adoption.
Safety features included dual front airbags for the driver and front passenger, providing crucial protection in frontal collisions. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were a standard feature, assisting in maintaining steering control during hard braking maneuvers. Side airbags were not an option for this model year.
Optional comfort and utility features included rear air conditioning to keep back-seat passengers comfortable, privacy glass for added security and sun protection, and a power moonroof for an open-air experience. The most significant optional feature was the third-row seating, which expanded passenger capacity to eight or nine, making the Expedition a true family-sized vehicle.
In terms of crash-test ratings, the 1997 Expedition underwent NHTSA evaluations. It received 4 stars for frontal impact protection for the driver and 3 stars for the front passenger. For side-impact protection (without side airbags), it received 5 stars for the driver and 5 stars for the rear passenger. Its rollover resistance rating was 3 stars for both 2WD and 4WD models, indicating a moderate risk of rollover in single-vehicle crashes.
What Colors Options are Available?
1997 Ford Expedition Prices and Market Value
The Expedition has experienced massive depreciation over its 27-year lifespan, losing most of its value within its first decade. Factors severely affecting its current resale value include significant mileage, visible rust, major mechanical issues (especially transmissions), and general wear and tear. A comprehensive service history and rust-free body are key to commanding higher prices in the collector or utility market for these older SUVs.
1997 Ford Expedition Cost of Ownership
1997 Ford Expedition Fuel Efficiency
1997 Ford Expedition Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1997 Ford Expedition Recalls & Defects
Trailer Hitches
Exterior Lighting
Wheels:lugs/Nuts/Bolts/studs
Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (Prndl)
Suspension:rear
Steering:gear Box:shaft Sector
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Exterior Lighting
Vehicle Speed Control
1997 Ford Expedition Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1997 Ford Expedition Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Regarding features, the Expedition, Tahoe, and Yukon were remarkably similar, offering comparable levels of passenger comfort, cargo space, and available amenities like leather seating, power accessories, and advanced audio systems. The Expedition's styling was generally seen as more aerodynamic and modern than the boxier GM offerings.
Reliability is a mixed bag for all these older full-size SUVs. While the Expedition faced issues like spark plug ejection and transmission woes (E4OD/4R100), the GM rivals also had their share of transmission (4L60E) and engine-related problems, though perhaps fewer high-profile engine design flaws than the early Tritons. Rust is a significant long-term concern for all three. Parts availability and repair costs are generally comparable and reasonable due to their popularity.
In terms of price, new models were competitively positioned, and today, used market prices for well-maintained examples of all these vehicles track similarly, offering excellent value for their utility.
Similar Alternatives:
- Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon (1995-1999 GMT400): These are direct competitors, offering comparable V8 power, interior space, and towing. They are excellent alternatives for those seeking similar capability and robust build quality.
- Older Chevrolet Suburban: If even greater cargo and passenger capacity is required, the Suburban of the same era provides an extended wheelbase and more utility.
While slightly smaller, the Toyota Land Cruiser (80 series) from the mid-90s could be a premium alternative, offering legendary off-road capability and arguably superior long-term reliability, albeit at a higher purchase price and potentially worse fuel economy.
Final Verdict: Is the 1997 Ford Expedition a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Prospective buyers should exclusively consider well-maintained examples with comprehensive service records. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is absolutely essential to identify potential issues like rust, transmission wear, or engine problems. Opting for models with the 5.4L V8 is generally preferred for its added power, but be vigilant about spark plug integrity. While any trim provides utility, the Eddie Bauer offers a more comfortable and feature-rich experience. Be prepared for high fuel costs and budget for potential repairs, as even well-kept vehicles of this age will eventually require attention. For its low acquisition cost, it delivers immense utility, making it a valuable workhorse if you manage its quirks.