Is the Ford Expedition body aluminum?
The Ford Expedition has undergone significant changes over the years, particularly with its construction materials. As a popular full-size SUV, understanding whether its body is made of aluminum is crucial for potential buyers and current owners alike. In this article, we will explore the materials used in the Ford Expedition's body and the implications of these choices.
Material Composition of the Ford Expedition
Starting with the 2015 model year, Ford made a notable shift in the construction of the Expedition. The body of the Ford Expedition is primarily made of high-strength aluminum alloy. This change aligns with Ford's broader strategy to reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel efficiency without compromising safety and durability.
Benefits of Aluminum Construction
Using aluminum in the body of the Ford Expedition offers several advantages:
- Weight Reduction: Aluminum is significantly lighter than traditional steel, which helps improve fuel efficiency and handling.
- Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum is naturally resistant to rust, which can enhance the vehicle's longevity and reduce maintenance costs.
- Improved Performance: The lighter weight contributes to better acceleration and braking performance, making the Expedition more responsive on the road.
Considerations for Owners
While aluminum offers many benefits, there are also considerations for owners:
- Repair Costs: Repairing aluminum can be more expensive than steel due to the specialized techniques and tools required.
- Insurance Implications: Some insurance policies may have different rates for vehicles with aluminum bodies, so it's worth checking with your provider.
Conclusion
In summary, the Ford Expedition's body is indeed made of aluminum starting from the 2015 model year. This shift to aluminum construction provides numerous benefits, including weight reduction and improved performance, while also presenting some unique challenges for maintenance and repair. As always, staying informed about your vehicle's materials can help you make better decisions regarding care and maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Ford use aluminum body?
The aluminum body F-150 has proved that you can have a lighter truck without compromising on capability and durability. Durability and Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum does not rust like traditional steel, which gives the Ford F-250 aluminum body a considerable advantage in terms of longevity and maintenance costs.
What year did Ford switch to aluminum body?
2015
Ford has already put into practice the advantages of aluminum for their fleet. In 2015, Ford introduced the aluminum-bodied F-150 and spent the last six years refining mass market aluminum manufacturing best practices.
What Ford models have aluminum bodies?
Since 2015, Ford has made their popular F-150 truck out of aluminum. Then, in 2017, they also started creating their F-Series Super-Duty trucks out of aluminum as well. This trend continues until today, with these two models using aluminum bodies, and all other Ford trucks having the typical steel bodies.
What is the life expectancy of an Expedition?
According to vehiclehistory.com, the Ford Expedition can last 150,000-300,000 miles, depending on the engine and the care put into the vehicle. The more careful you are when you drive, and the better the maintenance performed, the longer it's likely to survive.
What year did Ford go to all aluminum body?
2015
In 2015, Ford introduced the aluminum-bodied F-150 and spent the last six years refining mass market aluminum manufacturing best practices.
Which SUV is made of aluminum?
Range Rover: World's first SUV to feature all-aluminium construction is celebrating Golden Jubilee year with limited edition launch.
What year Expedition has an aluminum body?
2018
The aluminum body on the 2018 Expedition follows in the footsteps of Ford's 2015 F-150 pickup platform, which saved up to 700 lbs over the previous steel body. The F-150 platform was retooled in 2016 for the Super Duty truck (saving up to 350 pounds from previous Super Duty models).
Do expeditions have aluminum bodies?
The 2023 Ford Expedition's construction is built tough. The frame is made with a high-strength steel frame with aluminum body panels, making it lighter but stronger in structure.
Do aluminum body Fords rust?
Durability and Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum does not rust like traditional steel, which gives the Ford F-250 aluminum body a considerable advantage in terms of longevity and maintenance costs. This corrosion resistance is particularly valuable for drivers in harsh climates.
Is the 2019 Expedition aluminum?
These two models feature aluminum-intensive construction that enables them to be both larger and lighter than the previous-generation Expedition. Ford's twin-turbo V-6 pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear- or all-wheel drive.
