Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick. Before attempting any component diagnosis or replacement of the VCT solenoid, refer to Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) pinpoint test HK11 to cycle the affected VCT solenoid 10 times to attempt to clear the debris. For claiming, use causal part 6M280 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2017 Ford Expedition engine problems
moderate Owners of the 2017 Ford Expedition have filed 29 NHTSA complaints about the engine, typically surfacing around 100,000 miles at roughly $3,100 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
29
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
| Model year | engine complaints |
|---|---|
| 2013 Expedition | 6 |
| 2014 Expedition | 4 |
| 2015 Expedition | 16 |
| 2016 Expedition | 23 |
| 2017 Expedition (this page) | 29 |
| 2018 Expedition | 83 |
| 2019 Expedition | 96 |
| 2020 Expedition | 18 |
| 2021 Expedition | 25 |
When does it fail?
Of the 29 engine complaints filed for the 2017 Ford Expedition, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 100,000-125,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 29 engine complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Some 2009-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbochargers may exhibit an oil leak from the turbocharger oil supply or return tubes, O-rings or 6.7L pedestal gasket. Although oil may collect on the turbocharger, it is very rare for a turbocharger to leak oil. To isolate the source of the leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 General Information > Diagnosis and Testing > Engine > Engine Oil Leaks - Fluorescent Oil Additive Method procedure. When an oil leak is present at a turbocharger oil supply or drain tube, remove the affected oil tube and inspect for damage, and replace the O-ring seals, pedestal gasket or oil tube as required. Refer to WSM, Section 303-04. For c
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2017-2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine built at Kansas City Assembly Plant on or before 23-Feb-2018 or Dearborn Truck Plant on or before 26-Feb-2018 and Expedition/Navigator vehicles built on or before 19-Mar-2018 may exhibit an oil leak from the oil pan RTV seal. This may be due to a lack of RTV adhesion. This article includes detailed steps to achieve proper RTV adhesion. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to replace the oil pan.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2017-2018 F-150 vehicles built on or before 10-Jul-2018 and 2018-2019 Expedition/Navigator vehicles built on or before 8-Apr-2019 equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a ticking, tapping, or rattle type noise from the top front cover area of the engine that last 2-5 seconds on initial start-up after a cold soak. This may be due to a worn variable cam timing (VCT) unit. A TSB is expected to be published 4th quarter of 2019. In the interim, replace all 4 VCT units and update the powertrain control module (PCM) calibration. Do not replace timing chains, tensioners, guides or other timing related components unless inspection clearly identifies a concern. Refer to the Workshop Man
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗SSM 47948 - 2010-2019 Various Vehicles - Turbocharged Engines - Oil Supply Filter Replacement When Replacing The Turbocharger Or The Turbocharger Oil Supply Tube For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing and/or replacing turbo related concerns, all steps within the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure must be followed including replacement of all mandatory discarded parts. When specified in the WSM, the turbocharger oil supply filter must be replaced whenever the turbocharger or the turbocharger oil supply tube are replaced. Turbocharger bearing failure may occur if oil starvation occurs due to a restricted filter.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2017 Ford Expedition engine complaints fall into clear patterns. Throttle body failures dominate: owners report sudden loss of power and limp mode (limited to 5–40 mph), often with a wrench light and check engine light (P2112 code for throttle actuator stuck closed). The throttle recovers after engine restart. This happens repeatedly for some owners and has occurred at 60,000 miles through 132,000 miles. Owners note this mirrors a known problem affecting other Ford Expeditions but no recall exists.
Catastrophic engine failures are the second major issue. Engines lose all power suddenly with a rattling noise, then either won't restart or overheat completely. These require $10,000–$16,000 replacement. Multiple owners report no warning signs, recent oil changes, and warranty expiration weeks or months before failure. One owner knows of three other area owners with identical engine failures.
Water pump failures cause coolant leaks with no prior warning. One coolant leak reached the starter and prevented starting. Blower motor seizures recur even after warranty repairs. Exhaust manifold bolts break, a known EcoBoost defect Ford acknowledges but will not repair out of warranty. Engine rattle at cold start, shuddering during acceleration, and rough idle round out the list. Several owners report the problems correlate to the EcoBoost engine specifically.
Same Ford Expedition engine reports on nearby years: 2015 · 2016 · 2018 · 2019 · 2020
Failure modes owners describe
Throttle Body / Throttle Actuator Control Failure
Electronic throttle body sticks closed or fails, causing sudden loss of engine power, limp mode, and inability to accelerate. Vehicle typically recovers after engine restart.
When: Various mileages between 60,000–132,000 miles; several complaints mention warranty expiration shortly before failure
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of acceleration / power; Engine slows to idle or stalls without warning; Wrench light and check engine light illumination; Vehicle enters limp mode (limited to 5–40 mph); Rough idle or heavy shaking at idle; Throttle unresponsive to pedal input; Power restored after turning engine off and restarting
Codes mentioned: P2112 (Throttle Actuator Control Stuck Closed)
Repairs/costs cited: Throttle body cleaning or replacement; owners report $800+ dealer repairs. One independent mechanic cleaned throttle body with temporary success.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls mentioned. Owner #2 states this is 'an ongoing issue for thousands of other Ford Expeditions' but no recall issued. No manufacturer assistance documented.
Complete Engine Failure / Catastrophic Internal Damage
Engine loses all power suddenly while driving, followed by either no-start condition or severe overheating. Engines require complete replacement.
When: 69,000–125,000 miles; no prior warning signs or maintenance issues
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden power loss while accelerating or cruising; Rattling noise from engine; Engine overheating; Check engine light illumination immediately before stall; Engine completely inoperable after failure
Repairs/costs cited: Complete engine replacement: $10,500–$16,000 (dealership), $11,000 (independent Ford mechanic). Owner #1 had just completed oil change before failure.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner #1 reports dealership stated 'it was a fluke accident' with no real explanation. No warranty coverage due to powertrain warranty expiration. Owner #12 contacted Ford consumer affairs and opened feedback case; no assistance mentioned.
Check Engine Light – Intermittent, Undiagnosed (Occupancy Sensor / Catalytic Converter)
Check engine light illuminates intermittently while driving. Multiple diagnostic attempts and repairs do not resolve the recurring failure.
When: Approximately 120,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates intermittently; Vehicle runs otherwise normally when light is off
Repairs/costs cited: Independent mechanic recommended occupancy sensors and catalytic converter replacement; repairs completed but failure persisted on at least 4 occasions.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner researched an 'unknown recall' but VIN was not included. Manufacturer confirmed VIN not in recall database.
Rattling Noise / Engine Knock
Abnormal rattling or knocking sound emanates from engine, particularly during cold start, at idle, or when parked. Cause often undiagnosed.
When: 80,000–132,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loud rattling sound from engine on cold start; Rattling noise during acceleration; Abnormal engine noise while parked and running; Engine hesitation upon start
Repairs/costs cited: Owner #15 was advised cam phasers needed replacement but vehicle not repaired. Owner #10 advised to replace exhaust system by both dealer and independent mechanic; exhaust replaced but noise persisted. Owner #24 experienced water pump noise.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified in owner #15 and #10; no assistance provided.
Water Pump Failure / Coolant Leak
Water pump fails or develops coolant leaks, with no prior warning indicators. One case involved coolant leaking into starter.
When: Unspecified mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Coolant leaking pooling under vehicle; Loud sound from engine (water pump bearing failure); Engine overheating
Repairs/costs cited: Owner #6 reported increasing coolant leak but mechanic could not diagnose source; not repaired. Owner #24 reported loud water pump sound; no repair cost mentioned. Owner #27 reported coolant leaked into starter, preventing vehicle start.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner #27 states EcoBoost is 'a major issue' and 'should be covered under a recall' but no manufacturer action documented.
Blower Motor Seizure / Failure
Engine blower motor seizes intermittently or fails completely. One case involved blower replacement under an unidentified recall, with failure recurring.
When: Approximately 115,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine blower seizes intermittently; Flickering instrument panel and headlights (possibly secondary to electrical draw); Abnormal burning odor through air vents; Battery drains prematurely
Repairs/costs cited: Owner #5 had blower motor replaced under unknown recall; failure recurred. Repaired again under warranty 3 months later. Owner #8 had blower motor assembly diagnosed as failed; multiple dealers did not perform repairs due to parts unavailability.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner #5 stated manufacturer provided no assistance and was advised to contact NHTSA. Owner #8 stated manufacturer was made aware but parts unavailable.
Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage
Exhaust manifold mounting bolts break, causing exhaust leak and poor emissions performance. Known EcoBoost issue with manufacturer update available.
When: Unspecified mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Exhaust leak; Poor emissions; Likely exhaust noise
Repairs/costs cited: Owner #23 states Ford has an update acknowledging the problem; repair refused when vehicle slightly out of warranty.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford acknowledges the problem exists per owner #23 but will not repair out-of-warranty vehicles. No recall mentioned.
Engine Shudder / Rough Idle / Rough Start
Engine vibrates heavily during acceleration from stop, rough idle at startup, or shaky starts with excessive vibration. No check engine light in some cases.
When: 67,000–131,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration from 0–30 mph; Heavy vibration at idle on startup; Shaky starts with engine vibration
Repairs/costs cited: Owner #6 reported shudder during acceleration; independent mechanic could not diagnose. Owner #15 had cam phasers identified as faulty but vehicle not repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No repairs or manufacturer action documented.
Steering Jerk / Instability
Steering jerks left or right unprompted without driver input. Concurrent with other engine failures.
When: Approximately 100,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Steering jerks to left or right with no driver input
Repairs/costs cited: Owner #6 reported steering jerk along with coolant leak and engine shudder; independent mechanic could not diagnose or repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer not informed.
Exhaust Odor During Hard Acceleration
Strong exhaust smell enters cabin during hard acceleration; owner must open windows to ventilate.
When: Unspecified mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Exhaust odor in cabin during hard acceleration; Numerous occurrences
Repairs/costs cited: No repair action taken; complaint only.
Synthesized from 29 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 1 most recent
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…
Had engine trouble with your 2017 Ford Expedition?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the engine problem on the 2017 Ford Expedition?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 29 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 12 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 60,000 and 125,000 miles, with the median around 100,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 60,000; a quarter make it past 125,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2017/Ford/Expedition.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.