How long do struts last on a Ford Expedition?
Most Ford Expeditions with standard front struts will typically need replacement somewhere between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, though severe driving or heavy loads can shorten that range.
Struts are a core part of the Expedition’s suspension, combining shock absorption with a structural role in the front end. They cushion impacts from rough roads, help keep tires in contact with the pavement, and influence steering feel and braking stability. Over time, seals can leak, the gas charge can dissipate, and mounting hardware can wear, all of which degrade ride quality and handling. The exact life of a set of struts depends on how you use the vehicle, how well you maintain it, and the quality of the parts you install.
What struts do and how they wear
Signs of wear
Observing performance signs can help determine if struts need replacement. Look for the following indicators:
- Excessive body roll or nose-diving during braking
- Leaking fluid around the shock/strut housing
- Uneven or accelerated tire wear, or poor tire contact
- Rough ride, persistent bouncing after bumps, or clunking noises
- Front-end sagging or alignment issues when parked
If you notice several of these, have a suspension inspection performed by a professional to confirm whether struts are failing.
Typical lifespan for a Ford Expedition
Estimated mileage bands
The following ranges reflect common experiences among Expedition owners with standard front struts:
- About 50,000–70,000 miles for average driving with moderate maintenance
- Approximately 70,000–100,000 miles for typical highway use with decent maintenance
- Beyond 100,000 miles in cases of light use or very careful maintenance; some owners report 120,000 miles or more
These are broad estimates. Actual longevity varies with vehicle year, drivetrain, driving style, and exposure to road conditions and salt.
Factors that affect longevity
Several variables influence how long Ford Expedition struts last. Among the most impactful are:
- Driving conditions: smooth highway vs. rough roads or off-road use
- Payload and towing: frequent heavy loads stresses the suspension
- Climate and road salt exposure: corrosion and seal wear in harsh winters
- Maintenance practices: timely inspections, addressing leaks, aligning wheels
- Quality and type of strut: OEM vs. reputable aftermarket parts; design (gas-pressurized, monotube, etc.)
- Driving style: aggressive braking and fast impacts accelerate wear
Understanding these factors helps set expectations for replacement timing and ride quality.
Maintenance and replacement guidance
Proactive maintenance can extend strut life and ensure safer handling. The following guidelines are commonly recommended by dealers and independent shops:
- Have the suspension inspected at least every 30,000–50,000 miles, or if you notice ride issues
- Replace struts in pairs (both sides) to maintain balanced handling and even wear
- Consider OEM or high-quality aftermarket replacements; avoid very low-cost parts that may wear quickly
- Plan for a wheel alignment after replacement to prevent abnormal tire wear
- Replace worn related components (mounts, bushings, sway bar links) to restore full performance
Costs and availability vary by region and model year; consult a local shop for a precise quote and recommended parts for your Expedition.
Costs and replacement options
Cost considerations depend on parts choice, labor rates, and whether both front struts are replaced at once. Typical ballpark ranges seen in the market are:
- Parts: OEM or reputable aftermarket front struts priced roughly from $50 to $350 each
- Labor: Installation commonly runs from about $150 to $350 per strut
- Total for a front pair: Roughly $600 to $1,500 or more, including alignment and related hardware
Always request a written quote, confirm whether alignment is included, and verify if additional components (mounts, boots, or mounting hardware) are required.
Summary
In practice, Ford Expedition struts typically last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles for most drivers, with life affected by payload, road conditions, and maintenance habits. Regular inspections, replacing worn struts in pairs, and ensuring proper alignment are key steps to preserve ride comfort and safety. For a precise timeline tailored to your model year and driving, consult a qualified technician or ASE-certified shop.
How much does it cost to replace struts on a Ford Expedition?
between $1,092 and $1,248
The average cost for a Ford Expedition Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $1,092 and $1,248. Labor costs are estimated between $270 and $396 while parts are priced between $822 and $852.
Can a Ford Expedition last 300,000 miles?
Typical Lifespan of a Ford Expedition
On average, a Ford Expedition can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. For many drivers, this translates to 15–20 years of use if you drive approximately 15,000 miles per year.
At what mileage should struts be replaced?
Struts should be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, though this can vary based on driving habits and road conditions. It is also important to watch for signs of wear, such as a bumpy ride, uneven tire wear, fluid leaks, and poor handling, which may indicate they need to be replaced sooner.
General mileage guidelines
- 50,000 to 100,000 miles: This is the most common recommendation for replacing shocks and struts.
- Faster wear: If you frequently drive on rough roads, carry heavy loads, or have aggressive driving habits, your struts may need replacement sooner.
Signs your struts need replacement
- Bumpy or bouncy ride: The vehicle bounces excessively when going over bumps or uneven surfaces.
- Uneven tire wear: You may see signs of "cupping" or other uneven wear patterns on your tires.
- Fluid leaks: There are visible signs of fluid leaking around the struts.
- Poor handling: The vehicle sways, leans, or tips more than usual when turning or changing lanes.
- Braking issues: The front end dives down during braking, or stopping distances feel longer.
- Steering problems: The steering feels stiff, or the response is poor.
- Visible damage: There are obvious signs of physical damage, such as dents or broken parts.
How long do shocks last on a Ford Expedition?
Shock absorbers, which dampen spring oscillators and give you a smoother ride in the process, typically last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles.
