Problems · by component

2017 Ford Expedition engine problems

38 owner complaints to NHTSA about the 2017 Ford Expedition cite engine, 11% of all 358 complaints for this model year.

Complaints
38
11% of all complaints
Crashes
0
Reported by owners
Fires
0
Reported by owners
Injuries
0
Reported by owners
01 —Owner reports

What owners say about the engine

Verbatim from NHTSA complaints, newest first
“I am reporting a severe, systemic manufacturing defect in the 3.5L EcoBoost engine timing system (cam phasers and timing chain) of my 2017 Ford Expedition that poses an immediate highway safety hazard. Approximately February 2026 Upon start up heard odd rattle type noise, a week later heard noise again thought maybe due to recent Ford Dealership changing engine belts. Searched websites discovered notable issues regarding serious known manufacturing defect, cam phasers, timing chain, water pump. Followed Ford recommendation to change oil well before normal schedule to address. At approximately 54,550 miles, the vehicle began exhibiting continuous mechanical rattling and timing instability upon startup, a condition heavily documented across Ford’s truck/SUV platform and acknowledged internally via Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB 23-2143. The 3.5L EcoBoost is a high-compression interference engine. A failure or skipped tooth of the timing chain or cam phaser system while operating at high speeds causes instantaneous, catastrophic engine failure. This results in an immediate stall and a complete loss of vacuum-assisted power braking and power steering. This…”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jun 23, 2026Power train, EngineODI 11745999
“Vehicle suddenly shifts to 1st gear while travelling at 45MPH or more causing immediate jerking and slowing of vehicle, placing driver, occupants and other drivers at risk of crash. In this condition, the speedometer reads 0MPH while still travelling and other warnings on dash are: Airbag Failure, Blindspot system fault, Cross traffic system fault, and See manual. Vehicle then appears stuck in 3rd gear until pulling over, stopping the engine and restarting. All warnings clear after restarting. This has occurred many times without proper diagnosis from Ford service. Now vehicle is doing this two to three times weekly and is currently in Ford service. Now diagnosed as Lead Frame Failure. Estimated cost is $1,523.38 and Ford refuses to pay for repair due to no active recalls on this specific vehicle, however the same transmission issue is in recall on same year model F-150's with the same transmission.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jun 4, 2026Power train, Vehicle speed control, EngineODI 11741968
“The contact owns a 2017 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the occupancy sensors and the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the occupancy sensors and the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The failure reoccurred again on two other occasions, and the vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact research and was made aware of an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Dec 22, 2025Engine, Air bagsODI 11706554
“Water pump failure, coolant leaking everywhere now on garage floor, loud sound coming from engine when driving home previously presumably from water pump. No warning lamps or indicators prior. Just a different loud sound from engine (water pump).”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Oct 14, 2025EngineODI 11693423
“Coolant leaked into the starter causing the vehicle to not start. The EcoBoost seems to be a major issue for Ford, and this most recent issue should be covered under a recall.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Aug 14, 2025EngineODI 11680585
“The contact owns a 2017 Ford Expedition. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V236000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal felt loose. A message regard the brake fluid level was displayed on the instrument panel. In addition, upon further notice, an abnormal oil consumption was noticed, and white smoke was coming from the exhaust when the vehicle was started. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 91,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jul 29, 2025Service brakes, hydraulic, EngineODI 11676882

Showing 6 of 38 reports. Read every report on NHTSA.gov.

Data from NHTSA Complaints API (owner reports, unverified) · synced Oct 28, 2026NHTSA vehicle page

Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.