How do you turn on the DVD player in a Ford Expedition?

Turn on the rear-seat DVD player by powering the rear-seat entertainment system from the screen or remote, then insert a disc and select DVD as the source. If your Expedition is equipped with rear-seat entertainment, playback is typically controlled from the rear screens or a dedicated remote.

The Ford Expedition's rear-seat entertainment system (RSE) has evolved across model years. Depending on your trim and year, you may have headrest-mounted displays or a ceiling/center-console setup, with a built-in DVD player, USB inputs, and sometimes streaming options. If your vehicle doesn’t have a built-in DVD option, media may be accessed via USB or streaming through the vehicle’s infotainment system. The steps below cover the common DVD-enabled configurations you’re likely to encounter today.

Identify your system and power it on

Before you start, locate the rear-seat entertainment controls. In most Expeditions with RSE, you will use either the screen itself or a handheld remote to power the unit and select the media source. If you only see USB ports or streaming options, your vehicle may not have a built-in DVD player.

What you need

To operate a DVD, ensure you have a compatible disc and that the RSE is active. The following steps assume a standard Ford Expedition Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) with a built-in DVD player.

1. Turn the vehicle ignition to the On/Run position to supply power to the RSE (in most models, the system powers down when the vehicle is off).


2. Power on the rear-seat display(s) by pressing the Power button on the screen or by using the included remote control.


3. If the display doesn’t automatically switch to DVD, press the Source or Disc button on the screen or remote and select DVD as the input source.


4. Insert the DVD into the player. If there is a disc slot, insert the disc with the label facing up and a smooth, even push until it seats.


5. Use the on-screen controls or the remote to Play, Pause, Stop, and Navigate tracks or scenes as needed.


6. Adjust volume and screen brightness as desired using the on-screen menus or the vehicle’s control knobs.


7. When finished, eject the disc if required and turn off the display or the entire system by pressing the Power button or turning the ignition off.

In most configurations, the rear-seat entertainment system will retain power as long as the vehicle is on, and it will enter a standby mode when you shut the vehicle off. If you don’t see a DVD option, your Expedition may rely on alternative media sources or may not include a built-in DVD player depending on trim and year.

Troubleshooting common issues

If the DVD player isn’t turning on or won’t play a disc, try these steps before seeking service. This list covers typical, user-accessible fixes for common RSE DVD setups in Ford Expeditions.

1. Ensure the ignition is in On/Run and that the rear-seat entertainment system has power. Some vehicles require the ignition to be in a ready state for the RSE to power up.


2. Check that the display is on the correct input (DVD). Use the Source/Disc button or on-screen menu to select DVD.


3. Verify the disc is Clean, Scratch-free, and Region-compatible with standard DVD playback. If you suspect damage, try a different disc.


4. Confirm the remote (if used) has working batteries and is paired or recognized by the system. If needed, use on-screen controls as an alternative.


5. Inspect the disc loading area for obstructions or a stuck disc. If the disc is not seating properly, power cycle the system by turning the display off and on, or by restarting the vehicle.


6. Check for parental controls, audio mute, or volume limits that might mute playback. Adjust volume and sound settings accordingly.


7. If the system remains blank or unresponsive, consult the owner’s manual for model-specific reset procedures or contact a Ford dealer for diagnostics, as some issues may require software updates or component service.

Most issues are resolved by ensuring the system is powered, selecting the correct input, and using a clean disc. If problems persist, the RSE module may require professional service or an update from a dealership.

Does your Expedition have a DVD player?

Some newer Expeditions offer rear-seat entertainment with streaming or USB playback and may omit a physical DVD player altogether. If your model lacks a dedicated DVD drive, you can still play media from USB drives or via available streaming apps on the rear displays, depending on the trim and package. In that case, consult the owner’s manual for the exact media options and supported formats, or check the Ford official support site for your specific model year.

Summary

In Expeditions equipped with Rear Seat Entertainment, turning on the DVD player typically involves powering the rear display, selecting DVD as the source, inserting the disc, and using the on-screen controls or a remote to play. If the system doesn’t respond, verify ignition state, input selection, disc condition, and remote function. Be aware that some model years and trims rely on USB or streaming media instead of a physical DVD player, so consult your owner’s manual for the exact setup in your vehicle.

How to start a DVD player?

To get a DVD player to work, first check and secure the cable connections to the TV and make sure the TV is on the correct input. If the picture still doesn't appear, check the DVD for scratches, clean it, and try a different disc. If the player still won't read any discs, you may need to clean the laser lens, check for firmware updates, or ensure the disc region code is compatible with the player. 
This video demonstrates how to connect a DVD player to a TV and troubleshoot common connection issues: 53sSpencertifiedYouTube · Aug 13, 2024
Basic troubleshooting

• Check cables: Ensure the video and audio cables (like HDMI or RCA) are securely plugged into both the DVD player and the TV. 
• Select the correct TV input: Use your TV remote to switch the input to match the connection port the DVD player is using (e.g., HDMI 1, AV, etc.). 
• Try a different disc: The problem might be with the disc itself. Check for scratches or smudges and try a different one to see if it plays. 

Advanced troubleshooting 
This video shows how to clean a DVD player's internal components, including the laser lens: 39sSpencertifiedYouTube · May 4, 2022

• Clean the disc: Gently wipe a dirty disc with a soft, lint-free cloth, moving from the center to the outer edge. 
• Clean the laser lens: Dust on the laser lens can prevent the player from reading discs. Use a special lens cleaning disc, or gently use a cotton swab with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to clean the lens inside the player. 
• Check disc and player compatibility: Make sure the disc format (e.g., DVD-R, DVD+R) and region code are compatible with your player. 
• Update firmware: If your player is connected to the internet or you can download updates, check for and install any available firmware updates. 
• Reset the player: Look for an option in the settings menu to reset the player to its factory defaults. 
• Inspect the disc tray: If the disc tray is stuck, the rubber belt inside may have stretched or broken. Some users have had success with lubricating the tray guides with a small amount of WD-40, but be cautious when opening the player. 

Does the Ford Expedition have a rear entertainment system?

Yes, older models of the Ford Expedition (such as the 2021 and 2024) have an available dual-headrest rear entertainment system with screens, but newer models, like the 2025, have changed their approach. Newer Expeditions come with built-in mounts for passengers to use their own tablets and phones, along with USB-C ports to keep them powered. 
Available rear entertainment (older models)

• Dual-headrest system: Models from previous years often featured two screens built into the front headrests. 
• Content options: Rear seat passengers could watch DVDs, play games, or stream content from their mobile devices. 
• Connectivity: The systems included features like "Screen Mirroring" and "SmartStream" to allow for wireless streaming from a mobile device. 
• Headphones: Wireless headphones and audio jacks were available for private listening. 

New approach (2025 models) 

• Tablet/phone mounts: The 2025 model ditches built-in screens for universal clamp-style mounts on the back of the front seats. 
• Power: Each mount has a USB-C port located beneath it to charge the devices. 
• Connectivity: The 2025 model continues to offer features like the FordPass Connect with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot to connect devices. 

Can you watch movies on a Ford Expedition screen?

Can I stream videos or movies with Ford Premium Connectivity? Yes, you can stream videos or movies while parked in your Ford vehicle with a Ford Premium Connectivity data plan, available based on your Ford vehicle model and year. Data plan prices are subject to change.

How do I play a DVD on my Ford Explorer?

You can also connect using a gaming console like Xbox PlayStation or Nintendo Switch. If you're using an iOS device and are watching protected.