Anyone Had Issues With a 23 Expedition XLT Max?

Took it for a test drive over the weekend, and I’m probably going to sign the papers on Monday. Just curious—what questions should I be asking? I’ve been hearing about cam phaser and transmission problems. It was a rental before and has around 34k miles on it.

I wouldn’t mess with a rental, especially a big SUV like an Expedition, unless the price is incredible and you have detailed maintenance records. The Ecoboost engines need oil changes religiously every 5k miles. I had a rental once that was overdue for an oil change, and the rental company didn’t care at all. Make sure you check those records before buying.

How much are you paying for it, and where are you located? If it’s not a fantastic deal, I’d be cautious about a former rental. Need more info to give better advice.

Rental companies usually keep up with regular maintenance, but remember, ‘fleet’ could also mean it was a leased vehicle, not necessarily a rental. Some new car leases are categorized as fleet vehicles.

Kyrie said:
Rental companies usually keep up with regular maintenance, but remember, ‘fleet’ could also mean it was a leased vehicle, not necessarily a rental. Some new car leases are categorized as fleet vehicles.

Or it might have been a dealership’s loaner vehicle too.

Definitely get an extended warranty that covers major repairs like rebuilding the transmission. The transmission issues are real. My 2019 had a transmission failure at 35k miles, thankfully covered under warranty. Would’ve cost $10,000 otherwise.

Other than that, it’s a fantastic SUV. I love mine except for the built-in Navigation, which is useless—use Apple CarPlay instead. It’s great in snow, and the eight seats are super flexible. I can fold them down to fit my bike or set them up for passengers.

PixelPioneer said:
Definitely get an extended warranty that covers major repairs like rebuilding the transmission. The transmission issues are real. My 2019 had a transmission failure at 35k miles, thankfully covered under warranty. Would’ve cost $10,000 otherwise.

Other than that, it’s a fantastic SUV. I love mine except for the built-in Navigation, which is useless—use Apple CarPlay instead. It’s great in snow, and the eight seats are super flexible. I can fold them down to fit my bike or set them up for passengers.

Totally agree! We have a 2018 and had issues even while it was under warranty. One time it broke down on the interstate, went into limp mode while I was driving 80 mph. Had to struggle to pull over safely with my kids in the car. Ford couldn’t figure out the issue until the warranty expired, and by then, the transmission was shot. Ford offered no help, and we’ve spent $20,000 on repairs, plus cam phaser and turbo issues.

If you decide to get it, consider PremiumCARE coverage up to 175k miles. It’ll be worth it if the engine or transmission fails. Also, use high-quality synthetic oil and change it every 3k miles. It’s about the cost of a tank of gas.

Wilson said:
Took it for a test drive over the weekend, and I’m probably going to sign the papers on Monday. Just curious—what questions should I be asking? I’ve been hearing about cam phaser and transmission problems. It was a rental before and has around 34k miles on it.

How much are they asking for it?

Wilson said:
Took it for a test drive over the weekend, and I’m probably going to sign the papers on Monday. Just curious—what questions should I be asking? I’ve been hearing about cam phaser and transmission problems. It was a rental before and has around 34k miles on it.

Honestly, I’d advise against it. Buying my Expedition was the biggest and most costly mistake I’ve ever made.