Loading

Is the Ford Expedition built on a truck frame?

Yes, the Ford Expedition is built on a truck frame. The Expedition is a full-size SUV that shares its platform and many components with the Ford F-150 pickup truck. This truck-based construction gives the Expedition its rugged capabilities and towing capacity.


Truck-Based Construction of the Ford Expedition


The Ford Expedition is classified as a full-size SUV, but it is built on a truck-based platform rather than a unibody car-based design. Specifically, the Expedition shares its body-on-frame construction with the Ford F-150 pickup truck. This means the Expedition has a separate frame that the body is mounted on, rather than the body and frame being integrated into a single unit.


The truck-based design provides the Expedition with several key benefits:



  • Towing Capacity: The Expedition's truck-based frame and suspension allow it to tow up to 9,300 pounds when properly equipped, making it a capable choice for those who need to tow trailers, boats, or other heavy loads.

  • Off-Road Capability: The body-on-frame construction and available four-wheel drive system give the Expedition enhanced off-road capabilities compared to unibody SUVs.

  • Durability: The separate frame design is generally more durable and robust than unibody construction, making the Expedition well-suited for heavy-duty use.


However, the truck-based design also results in a less refined ride and handling compared to car-based SUVs, as well as reduced fuel efficiency due to the Expedition's greater weight and less aerodynamic shape.


Comparison to Car-Based SUVs


In contrast to the Expedition, many modern SUVs are built on car-based unibody platforms that integrate the body and frame into a single unit. These unibody SUVs, such as the Ford Explorer, tend to offer a smoother, more carlike driving experience, but generally sacrifice some towing capacity and off-road capability compared to truck-based SUVs like the Expedition.


The choice between a truck-based SUV like the Expedition or a car-based SUV often comes down to the buyer's priorities and needs. Those who require substantial towing and off-road abilities may find the Expedition's truck-based design to be the better fit, while those prioritizing on-road comfort and efficiency may prefer a unibody SUV.

Is the Ford Expedition on the same frame as the F150?


The last time the Expedition went through a redesign was in 2018, moving to a lighter aluminum frame based off the F-150 frame. Recently in 2022 the updates also modeled the Ford F-150, giving the Expedition a sportier grille while also making the interior roomier and adding dashboards similar to those of the F-150.



Is an Explorer built on a truck frame?


Unlike traditional SUVs that use body-on-frame construction, the Explorer is built on a unibody platform. This construction allows for a more streamlined, car-like driving experience, combining the advantages of an SUV with the comfort and handling of a passenger car.



Is Ford Explorer on a truck frame?


2011-2019 Explorer
In a major change, Ford moved the Explorer from a truck-based, rear-wheel-drive body-on-frame platform to a car-based, unitized front-wheel-drive platform. Though still marketed as an SUV, it was now more accurately a crossover. The largest engine was a V-6, while turbocharged four-cylinders.



What platform is the Ford Expedition built on?


The T1 platform debuted in 2006 with the 2007 model year Ford Expedition, and shares elements with the 2004–2008 Ford F-150's chassis.



Is the Expedition based on the F250?


For 1997, Ford released the Ford Expedition as its all-new SUV derived from the Ford F-150 (itself redesigned the same year).



What frame does the Expedition use?


Body-on-frame

Ford Expedition
Body style4-door SUV
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive Front-engine, four-wheel-drive
ChassisBody-on-frame
RelatedLincoln Navigator



Is the Ford Explorer body-on-frame?


While earlier versions of the Ford Explorer featured a body-on-frame design, the shift to a unibody structure in later models highlights the industry trend toward crossover design.



Is the Ford Expedition considered a truck?


The Ford Expedition is a full-size sport-utility vehicle based on Ford's popular full-size pickup truck platform.



Does the Ford Expedition have a full frame?


Yes, the Ford Expedition for sale is built of a truck frame.



Are expeditions built on truck frames?


Built with body-on-frame construction, the 2022 Ford Expedition has more in common with the Ford F-150 than it does with other Ford SUVs.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.