The 1998 Ford Expedition, a full-size SUV, debuted in 1997 as a 1997 model year, replacing the Bronco. It shared its platform with the F-150 pickup. Available body styles were 4-door. Key trims included the XLT and Eddie Bauer. Initial pricing ranged from approximately $27,000 to $35,000. Its popularity stemmed from its spacious interior, V8 power, and substantial towing capabilities, making it a family-friendly and capable hauler.
The Good
The 1998 Expedition offers robust V8 performance for towing and hauling, a comfortable ride for families, and ample interior space. Its rugged design appeals to adventurers, while its overall value proposition makes it a practical choice for those needing a versatile full-size SUV.
The Bad
Potential buyers should watch out for transmission issues, particularly with the 4R70W automatic. Brake wear, rust on the frame and body, and suspension component failures are also common concerns. Fuel economy is naturally a significant drawback.
1998 Ford Expedition: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.6L Triton V8
- 5.4L Triton V8
- Horsepower:
- 4.6L V8: 215 hp @ 4,500 rpm
- 5.4L V8: 230 hp @ 4,500 rpm
- Torque:
- 4.6L V8: 290 lb-ft @ 3,400 rpm
- 5.4L V8: 325 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 4.6L V8 2WD: 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
- 4.6L V8 4WD: 12 mpg city / 16 mpg highway
- 5.4L V8 2WD: 12 mpg city / 16 mpg highway
- 5.4L V8 4WD: 11 mpg city / 15 mpg highway
- 0-60 mph Times (Estimated):
- Approximately 8.5 - 9.5 seconds, depending on engine and drivetrain
- Towing Capacity:
- Up to 7,700 lbs (properly equipped)
- Trim Level Features:
- XLT: Standard features included power windows and locks, air conditioning, cruise control, AM/FM stereo, and 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. Optional features often included captain's chairs in the second row, a power driver's seat, and running boards.
- Eddie Bauer: Built on the XLT trim, the Eddie Bauer added premium features such as leather seating, a premium audio system, a power moonroof, heated front seats, and distinctive two-tone paint schemes.
1998 Ford Expedition Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| 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 | 4.6-L V-8 |
| 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 | - |
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What Problems Does the 1998 Ford Expedition Have?
The 1998 Ford Expedition, while generally well-regarded for its capability, is not without its common issues. One of the most frequently reported problems centers on the 4R70W automatic transmission. Owners have experienced symptoms ranging from harsh shifting and slipping to complete transmission failure. This can be a costly repair, especially on a vehicle of this age. Another significant concern is brake wear; due to the vehicle's weight, brake pads and rotors can wear out more rapidly than in lighter vehicles. Owners often report needing to replace brakes every 20,000-30,000 miles. Rust is also a notable issue, particularly on the frame, rocker panels, and wheel wells, especially in regions with harsh winters and road salt. Thorough inspection of the undercarriage is crucial. Suspension components, such as ball joints, tie rod ends, and shocks/struts, can also wear out prematurely and require replacement, leading to steering and ride quality issues. Some owners have also reported problems with the air suspension system (if equipped), though this was more common on later model years. Minor electrical gremlins, such as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, and gauge cluster issues, can also surface. While there aren't widespread catastrophic engine failures reported for the Triton V8s, routine maintenance is key. There were a few recalls issued for the 1998 model year, including a recall for the rear axle, which could potentially crack. Another recall involved the driver's side airbag. It's important for potential buyers to check for any outstanding recalls or completed repairs. Long-term reliability can be decent if the vehicle has been meticulously maintained, but the potential for significant repair costs, especially for the transmission and rust remediation, should be carefully considered.
How long will the 1998 Ford Expedition last?
With regular and diligent maintenance, a 1998 Ford Expedition can realistically achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and in some cases, even more. The Triton V8 engines are known for their robustness and longevity. However, reaching higher mileage figures often requires proactive attention to potential weaknesses. Transmission issues can shorten its service life significantly if not addressed promptly. Rust is another major factor that can limit its lifespan, especially in corrosive environments. Owners who prioritize fluid changes, timely brake replacements, and address any suspension noises quickly are likely to enjoy more years of service from their Expedition. Without such care, its service life can be considerably reduced, with major component failures becoming more probable past 100,000 miles.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Ford Expedition's technology suite was relatively basic by today's standards, reflecting its era. Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. An optional CD player was also available for improved audio quality. In higher trims like the Eddie Bauer, a premium sound system might have been included. Built-in navigation systems were not yet commonplace in this segment.
When it comes to driver-assistance features, the 1998 Expedition offered very little. Systems like lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, or automatic emergency braking were non-existent. The primary safety systems focused on passive restraints and foundational active safety. Standard safety features included four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), which were crucial for maintaining steering control during hard braking. Dual front airbags were also standard for occupant protection. For added security, an optional anti-theft alarm system was available.
Regarding crash-test ratings, definitive ratings for the 1998 model year from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS are difficult to pinpoint for this specific year and configuration. However, based on the structural integrity of full-size body-on-frame SUVs of that era, they generally offered a good degree of occupant protection in frontal and side impacts, especially compared to smaller, lighter vehicles. The sheer mass of the Expedition could also contribute to its performance in collisions with smaller vehicles. However, it's important to remember that safety standards and testing methodologies have evolved significantly since 1998, meaning modern vehicles offer superior safety performance. Features like rear-seat entertainment systems or advanced climate control were also more likely to be optional extras rather than standard across all trims.
What Colors Options are Available?
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1998 Ford Expedition Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Ford Expedition had an MSRP that typically ranged from approximately $27,000 for a base XLT model to over $35,000 for a well-equipped Eddie Bauer trim. As with most vehicles, the Expedition experienced significant depreciation in its early years. Currently, used market prices for a 1998 Ford Expedition vary widely based on condition, mileage, trim level, and maintenance history. Expect to find examples ranging from as low as $1,500 for project vehicles needing substantial work, up to $5,000 or more for exceptionally clean, low-mileage examples. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the presence of rust, transmission health, the condition of the interior, and whether it has been well-maintained. Higher mileage and documented maintenance records will command a better price.
1998 Ford Expedition Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1998 Ford Expedition is generally considered moderately costly. Insurance rates can be higher than for smaller vehicles due to its size and older safety features, though this varies by driver profile and location. Fuel costs are substantial, with its V8 engines consuming a significant amount of gasoline, often averaging around 13-17 mpg combined. Routine maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is standard, but parts for a full-size SUV can be pricier. Repair costs, particularly for the transmission or any rust remediation, can be quite high. Therefore, the 1998 Expedition is not an economical vehicle to own, but its utility can outweigh the costs for those who need its capabilities.
1998 Ford Expedition Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
30 gallons
City Mileage
12 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
16 miles/gallon
1998 Ford Expedition Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1998 Ford Expedition Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 Ford Expedition is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Ford Expedition Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 1998 Ford Expedition entered a competitive segment dominated by American giants. Its primary rivals included the Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon and the Dodge Durango.
In terms of performance, the Expedition's V8 engines offered comparable or slightly superior horsepower and torque to its competitors, making it a strong contender for towing and hauling. The Chevrolet Tahoe/Yukon often boasted similar V8 options, while the Durango, introduced later, offered a range of engines as well.
Features for the 1998 Expedition were fairly standard for the era, with higher trims offering luxuries like leather seating and upgraded audio. The Tahoe/Yukon also provided similar feature sets, often emphasizing ruggedness. The Durango, being a slightly smaller option, might have felt less spacious but offered a good balance of features for its size.
Reliability is where the Expedition could be a mixed bag. While the powertrains were generally robust, the 4R70W transmission was a known weak point, something that could also be a concern for GM vehicles of the same period. Rust was a common issue across all these body-on-frame SUVs, especially in rust-belt states. The Dodge Durango also faced its share of reliability complaints, particularly with its transmissions and various electrical components.
Price was a significant factor. The Expedition, Tahoe, and Durango were all competitively priced, offering substantial value for their size and capability.
Alternatives to consider that are similar in spirit but potentially offer better long-term reliability or more modern features might include later model years of the Expedition itself (post-2003 models often addressed early transmission issues) or its rivals. If a more car-like ride and potentially better fuel economy are desired, a large crossover SUV like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot from a slightly later period could be considered, though they sacrifice significant towing and ruggedness. However, for pure towing and traditional SUV capability at a potentially lower entry price point, the 1998 Expedition remains a viable option if thoroughly inspected.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Ford Expedition a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 1998 Ford Expedition is ideal for buyers who need substantial towing and hauling capacity, ample passenger space for a large family, or enjoy a traditional, rugged SUV experience. It's a worthwhile purchase if you prioritize capability over modern amenities and fuel efficiency. This vehicle is best bought used, with a thorough pre-purchase inspection being absolutely critical, especially focusing on the transmission and rust. The XLT trim offers good value, while the Eddie Bauer adds luxury. It is NOT recommended for those seeking economical daily driving or who are not prepared for potentially significant repair costs associated with older vehicles, particularly concerning its known transmission weaknesses. If you find a well-maintained example, it can still offer great utility for the price.
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.