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Did Ford put a 4.6 in the Expedition?

The Expedition did indeed use a 4.6-liter V8, but only during the early first-generation years. It was offered alongside a larger 5.4-liter V8 and was not carried into later generations.


The question touches on how Ford’s powertrain options evolved as the Expedition grew—from its debut in the late 1990s through the introduction of newer engines in the following decades. Here is a concise look at when and where the 4.6-liter V8 appeared in the Expedition lineup.


Engine options by generation


In Ford’s early Expedition years, buyers could choose between two V8s. The following summarizes those options for the first generation.



  • 1997–2002: 4.6L V8 available as an engine option (alongside the 5.4L V8) for the Expedition’s first generation.

  • 1997–2002: 5.4L V8 also offered and widely used during the same period.


After the first generation, Ford did not continue offering the 4.6L in Expeditions. Later generations relied on the larger 5.4L and, eventually, EcoBoost-powered options, with the lineup shifting away from the 4.6L.


Later powertrain trends


As the Expedition evolved, Ford emphasized higher-torque, larger-displacement engines and, in more recent years, turbocharged EcoBoost technology. The 4.6L V8 was not part of the Expedition’s lineup after the early-2000s window, making it a footnote in the model’s long history.


Additional context


For enthusiasts, collectors, or buyers researching a specific model, engine identification can be confirmed by checking the vehicle’s VIN, window sticker, or build records for the exact year and trim. Engine options can vary by region and production date.


Summary


Ford did place a 4.6-liter V8 in the Expedition, but only during the first-generation years (approximately 1997–2002). It was not a lasting option, as later Expeditions shifted to the 5.4L and, ultimately, EcoBoost powertrains. If you’re reviewing a specific Expedition, verify the exact year and trim to confirm its engine configuration.

What engines come in the Ford Expedition?


Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Motivating the Expedition is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 and responsive 10-speed automatic transmission that pairs with rear- or four-wheel drive. The standard engine makes 400 hp. An even-higher-output version is available that bumps power to 440 horsepower.



How much horsepower does a 2003 Ford Expedition 4.6 have?


232
The standard 4.6-liter V8 does gain 17 horsepower for a total of 232, with 291 pound-feet of torque. Top dog in our Eddie Bauer is the 5.4-liter Triton V8 with 260 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Enough for respectable 0 to 60 runs of 9.7 seconds.



When did Ford stop putting V8 in Expedition?


Ford stopped putting a V8 engine in the Expedition for the 2015 model year. The 2014 Expedition was the last model year to feature a standard V8 engine, which was replaced by a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 for the 2015 model year refresh. 

  • Last V8 model: The 2014 Expedition was the final model year with a V8 engine. 
  • Replacement engine: Ford replaced the V8 with a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 for the 2015 model year onwards. 
  • Reason for change: The V6 engine was introduced to provide more power and better fuel efficiency. 



What vehicles did Ford put the 4.6 in?


The Ford 4.6L engine was used in a wide range of vehicles, including the Ford Mustang, Crown Victoria, F-150, Expedition, and Thunderbird, as well as the Mercury Grand Marquis, Marauder, and Cougar, and the Lincoln Town Car and Mark VIII. It was available in different versions, such as two-valve, three-valve, and four-valve designs, across various model years and trim levels.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the Ford 4.6L engine's application in different cars: 50sCar WizardYouTube · Jul 31, 2019
Ford

  • Mustang: GT (1996-2004), SVT Cobra (2003-2004)
  • Crown Victoria: (1992-2012), including police interceptor models
  • F-150: (1997-2010)
  • Expedition: (1997-2004)
  • Explorer: (2002-2005)
  • Thunderbird: (1994-1997)
  • E-Series vans: (1997-2014) 

Lincoln
  • Town Car: (1991-2011)
  • Mark VIII: (1993-1998)
  • Aviator: (2003-2005) 

Mercury
  • Grand Marquis: (1992-2012)
  • Mountaineer: (2002-2005)
  • Marauder: (2003-2004)
  • Cougar: (1994-1997) 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.