Is the 2015 Ford Expedition reliable?

The 2015 Ford Expedition is broadly considered average to solid in reliability for a full-size SUV, especially when it has a documented maintenance history. This article weighs reputable reviews, owner feedback, and practical buying guidance to help you assess reliability for this model year.

A snapshot of reliability for the 2015 Expedition

Reliability surveys and owner reports generally place the 2015 Expedition in the middle of the pack among large SUVs. The powertrain is often praised for durability when properly maintained, while some owners note issues that tend to surface with higher mileage or heavy use. As with any aging vehicle, maintenance history and how the vehicle was treated matter more than the model year alone.

The following points summarize what reviewers and owners commonly highlight about long-term reliability:

• Powertrain durability: The Expedition offers robust engine options and a drivetrain that can endure high towing loads and extended highway use when maintenance is kept up.


• Transmission performance: The 6‑speed automatic is generally reliable, but some owners report shifting hiccups or issues as mileage increases.


• Electrical and infotainment: As with many late-2000s to mid-2010s vehicles, electrical glitches or sensor-related faults can occur, particularly on higher-mileage examples.


• Brakes, suspension, and towing components: With regular maintenance, these systems remain serviceable; heavy towing can accelerate wear on brakes and suspension parts.


• Recalls and service history: There have been recall campaigns across the Expedition’s production span; checking the specific VIN for open recalls and service updates is essential.

In short, a well-maintained 2015 Expedition can be a dependable large-capacity SUV, but reliability depends heavily on maintenance, previous ownership, and how hard the vehicle has been worked. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a complete service history are key to making a confident assessment.

What to look for before buying a used 2015 Expedition

To gauge reliability before purchase, use a structured checklist that covers the main risk areas and the vehicle’s service history.

1. Review the maintenance history and service invoices to confirm regular oil changes, transmission fluid changes, coolant service, and timing/drive belt work if applicable.


2. Test the transmission under a variety of conditions (gentle starts, light-to-heavy throttle) to ensure smooth shifting without shudder, slip, or harsh downshifts.


3. Inspect for oil, coolant, or transmission-fluid leaks, particularly around the engine and transmission pans, seals, and gaskets.


4. Run a full diagnostic check for electrical systems, including gauges, warning lights, infotainment, and especially any issues with power accessories or adaptive cruise control.


5. Check for any open recalls and service campaigns using the VIN and verify that corrective work has been completed.

Thoroughly inspecting these aspects helps separate well-maintained examples from ones that may cost more in the long run due to wear or failed components.

Maintenance strategies to maximize reliability

Proactive maintenance is the best path to reliability for the 2015 Expedition. Below are key practices that help keep this SUV dependable over time.

• Follow Ford’s recommended maintenance schedule for fluids, filters, and inspections, with particular attention to the cooling system and transmission fluid intervals.


• Use the correct grade of motor oil and keep up with oil changes; electronics and sensors can be sensitive to oil quality and level.


• Address warning lights promptly and perform any needed software updates or recalls as soon as they are available from Ford.


• Keep tires, brakes, and suspension components in good condition, especially if the vehicle sees heavy towing or frequent full-load driving.


• Document all repairs and replacements so future owners understand the vehicle’s maintenance history and any recurring issues.

Staying on top of routine maintenance and addressing issues early can significantly improve long-term reliability and ownership satisfaction for a 2015 Expedition.

Summary

Overall, the 2015 Ford Expedition offers solid reliability for its class when properly maintained and used within reasonable limits. Its strength lies in a durable powertrain and substantial towing and passenger capacity, while potential reliability issues tend to surface with high mileage or if maintenance has been neglected. A careful pre-purchase inspection, comprehensive maintenance history, and confirmation of recalls are essential steps for anyone considering a used 2015 Expedition. Regular, preventive maintenance remains the best predictor of long-term reliability for this model year.

How many miles will a 2015 expedition last?

200,000 to 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.

What years did the Ford Expedition have transmission problems?

Ford Expedition Years With the Least Reliable Transmissions
The 1999, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2006, and 2011 models also lag in this category. Within these six years, a few common transmission issues include erratic shifting, transmission slipping and jerking, transmission failure, and more.

Is the 2015 Expedition reliable?

The 2015 Ford Expedition is generally considered a reliable vehicle, with many consumers and professional reviewers giving it high marks for dependability, particularly for its comfortable and spacious ride, strong performance, and towing capacity. However, some owners have reported specific issues, including problems with the air conditioning system, transmission, and occasional failures with exhaust and other parts. While the 2015 model received a perfect 5 out of 5 reliability rating from J.D. Power, its average annual repair cost is higher than average, though major repairs are considered uncommon. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2015 Ford Expedition's reliability and potential issues: 59sEYVO AutoYouTube · Apr 13, 2025
Strengths

• High consumer ratings: Many reviewers and owners praise its comfort, roomy interior, and quiet ride. 
• Powerful performance: It is noted for its powerful engine and impressive towing capacity. 
• High longevity potential: With proper maintenance, a Ford Expedition can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles or more. 
• Positive owner sentiment: An overwhelming majority of owners recommend the vehicle, citing comfort and reliability as strong points. 

Potential weaknesses and issues

• Specific component problems: Some common issues reported by owners include problems with the A/C compressor, blower motor, and transmission (stuttering or shifting patterns). 
• Exhaust and catalytic converter issues: Some owners have experienced problems with the catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, and heat shields, with occasional total failure reported. 
• Higher-than-average repair costs: While major repairs are not frequent, the average annual repair cost is higher than average, which leads to higher-than-average ownership costs. 
• Recalls: The 2015 Expedition has had some recalls. 

What to look for when buying

• A pre-purchase inspection is recommended to identify potential issues with components like the A/C system or transmission. 
• Review the vehicle's maintenance history, especially if it has the EcoBoost engine, as thorough maintenance records are important for this engine type. 

Which year Expedition is most reliable?

The most reliable Ford Expedition years include 2010, 2017, and the 2018-2024 model years, which have received high reliability scores and positive owner satisfaction. Specifically, the 2010 model is noted for fewer recalls and consistent performance, while newer models from 2018 onwards benefit from updated safety technology. 
You can watch this video to learn about the most reliable Ford engines in 2025: 37sTCcustomsYouTube · Jun 17, 2025
Recommended models

• 2010: This year stands out for its consistent performance and fewer recalls, making it a reliable choice. 
• 2017: Considered a solid and dependable model with low repair costs. 
• 2018–2024: This range generally has high reliability scores and incorporates modern safety technology. 

Years to approach with caution

• 2003–2006: These years are frequently cited for issues and higher repair costs. 
• 2021–2025: Some owners in this range have reported transmission issues, such as rough shifting and delayed engagement. 

Other considerations

• Pre-2015: The CarBuzz article suggests pre-2015 models with the revised 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine are a safer bet than the fourth-generation's EcoBoost engine and SelectShift transmission. 
• Overall reliability: The Ford Expedition can last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, making it a long-lasting vehicle. 
• Professional inspection: It is recommended to have any used vehicle inspected by a mechanic, focusing on the engine, transmission, and suspension, regardless of the model year.