Is the 2017 Ford Expedition aluminum?
The 2017 Ford Expedition is not aluminum; it uses a traditional steel body and frame.
The question about the Expedition’s material composition centers on Ford’s broader push toward lighter metals in some models. While Ford introduced extensive aluminum panels on the F-150 starting in 2015 to cut weight, the Expedition remained steel-bodied through the 2017 model year, reflecting its role as a large, body-on-frame SUV designed for durability and towing. This article breaks down what that means for the vehicle and its place in Ford’s material strategy.
Material profile of the 2017 Expedition
Below is a concise look at the construction materials used in the 2017 Expedition.
- Body panels and structure: predominantly steel
- Chassis/frame: steel
- Aluminum usage in this model year: not standard in the body; aluminum-heavy strategies were applied more to other Ford models like the F-150
In summary, the 2017 Expedition sticks with steel for its main body and frame, aligning with its heavy-duty SUV purpose and traditional repair ecosystem.
Historical context: Ford's use of aluminum
Shift to aluminum in F-150
Ford introduced extensive aluminum alloy panels on the 2015 F-150 to reduce weight and boost efficiency. This marked a significant shift for Ford’s mainstream pickup lineup. The Expedition, built on a different development path, did not adopt aluminum body construction for the 2017 model year.
Impact on consumers and resale
Material choices influence repair costs, maintenance, and perceived durability. Steel-bodied full-size SUVs like the Expedition typically benefit from a long-established parts supply chain and repair infrastructure, whereas aluminum-bodied trucks require different processes and tools. For buyers focused on proven durability and traditional repairability, the 2017 Expedition’s steel construction is a notable attribute.
Conclusion
The 2017 Ford Expedition is not aluminum; it uses a steel body and frame. This contrasts with Ford’s aluminum-heavy approach in certain other models during the same era, notably the F-150. The Expedition’s construction underlines its role as a rugged, durable full-size SUV with familiar materials and servicing pathways.
Summary
Across the 2017 model year, Ford did not apply aluminum construction to the Expedition. The vehicle remains steel-based for its body and frame, prioritizing strength and durability for heavy-duty use while Ford experimented with aluminum in other segments.
