What year did Ford Expedition go to aluminum body?
As of 2024, the Ford Expedition has not been produced with an all-aluminum body; Ford’s aluminum-body program has primarily affected the F-Series pickups, while the Expedition has remained steel-bodied with some aluminum components rather than a full aluminum body.
Context: Ford’s aluminum-body strategy
Ford began using an aluminum alloy body on the F-150 with its 2015 redesign, aiming to reduce weight and improve efficiency. The move was a major shift for Ford’s lineup and influenced expectations across other models. Over the following years, Ford expanded aluminum usage to various trim pieces and panels on several vehicles, but not all of them adopted a fully aluminum body.
Expedition aluminum status and timeline
The question of when the Expedition might switch to an aluminum body hinges on whether Ford ever adopted a full aluminum construction for this model. Here are the key points that summarize the status and timeline.
- 2015: Ford F-150 debuts an aluminum-alloy body on most sheet-metal panels, marking the start of Ford’s broader aluminum strategy.
- 2010s–2020s: Ford gradually expands use of aluminum panels and mixed-material approaches across some models, but the Expedition remains steel-bodied as built in its generations up to 2024.
- As of 2024: There has been no official announcement or model-year change indicating the Expedition would adopt an all-aluminum body.
Conclusion: While Ford’s aluminum strategy reshaped several vehicles, the Expedition did not switch to an aluminum body in any model year up to the present. It continues to use a steel body, with possible aluminum components in limited areas rather than a full-aluminum exterior.
Historical context and implications
The shift to aluminum in trucks and SUVs was motivated by weight reduction, efficiency, and performance gains. The F-150’s success with an aluminum body influenced perceptions about what material choices mean for durability, repair costs, and overall vehicle dynamics. The Expedition’s different design philosophy—a body-on-frame SUV with a heavy-duty construction—poses different engineering and cost considerations that have contributed to its continued steel construction in the years since the aluminum transition began.
Why aluminum bodies matter
Aluminum bodies can reduce curb weight, improve fuel economy, and enhance payload-to-weight ratios. However, aluminum also changes repair economics, corrosion considerations, and manufacturing processes. For full-size SUVs built on a body-on-frame platform, these trade-offs can complicate a switch.
What about future plans?
Ford has not publicly announced a specific timeline for giving the Expedition an all-aluminum body. Any future transition would likely weigh benefits in efficiency against costs in tooling, repairability, and supply chain considerations. Until Ford confirms a plan, the Expedition remains steel-bodied in current and recent generations.
Summary
The Ford Expedition has not undergone an all-aluminum body change, and no model year marks such a transition as of 2024. Ford’s aluminum-focused redesigns have largely affected the F-150 and certain other models, but the Expedition has continued with a steel body layout. If you’re researching a specific model year, verify the body construction details with a Ford dealer or the vehicle’s build sheet for that year.
Which 2018 Ford Expedition has an aluminum body and steel frame?
All-new Ford Expedition is the smartest, most capable, most adaptable Expedition ever. It features a lightweight, high-strength all-aluminum-alloy body that rides atop a high-strength steel frame.
Are 2017 expeditions aluminum?
The Expedition is based on Ford's F-Series pickup, which has already switched to an aluminum body. Related: Which 2017 Three-Row SUVs Offer Captain's Chairs? The major change for 2017 is that electronically controlled suspension damping and 22-inch wheels are now standard on the Platinum models.
When did Ford Expedition get 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).
What year of Ford Expedition to stay away from?
Years to avoid for the Ford Expedition include 2003-2006 and 2011, which are known for engine, electrical, and transmission issues. Some newer models, particularly around 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, are also cited for various problems like transmission trouble, issues with running boards, and other mechanical failures. It is best to choose a model year with better reliability ratings, such as 2015 or 2020, or focus on the fourth generation (2018-2024) or newer, which generally have better ratings.
Older generations (second and third)
- 2003–2006: These models are particularly notorious for having multiple complaints, including engine and drivetrain problems, brake failure, and electrical issues.
- 2011: This year is frequently mentioned for being problematic, though the specific issues are not as detailed as for the earlier years.
Newer generations (fourth)
- 2017–2019: Issues include rough shifting transmissions, problems with automatic running boards, and other powertrain concerns.
- 2018–2020: Some models are noted for poor fuel economy, especially when towing, in addition to transmission issues.
- 2020–2021: At least one owner reported needing major repairs, including a new transmission and catalytic converters, on a 2021 model.
- 2022–2024: These model years have recalls related to brake lines potentially becoming damaged by other components, which can lead to a brake fluid leak and reduced braking function.
What to look for
- 2015: This model year is often recommended as a more reliable option within the third generation.
- 2020: This year is highlighted as one of the more dependable models.
- 2018–2024: Fourth-generation models generally have higher reliability ratings, though some specific years within this range still had reported issues.
