What year did the Ford Expedition go aluminum?
The Ford Expedition has not gone aluminum; Ford’s major shift to aluminum bodies has been centered on the F-Series pickups since 2015, while the Expedition has remained steel-bodied in its current generations.
In this report, we examine the question, place it in the context of Ford’s broader material strategy, and outline what this means for weight, durability, and ownership costs. We also trace the Expedition’s development across generations to show how its construction has evolved without a full transition to aluminum.
Timeline of aluminum adoption in Ford trucks
Before reviewing the Expedition specifically, it helps to understand how Ford rolled out aluminum across its truck lineup and where the Expedition fits in that timeline.
- The F-150 became the flagship model for Ford’s aluminum-intensive construction, moving to an aluminum body for the 2015 model year to reduce weight and improve efficiency.
- Other Ford trucks and SUVs, including the Expedition, did not adopt a full aluminum body in the immediate years that followed; they largely retained steel bodies with aluminum components on occasion, rather than a complete shift.
- As of the latest model years, Ford has continued to pursue weight savings through design and engineering rather than a wholesale switch to aluminum for the Expedition.
In short, Ford’s widespread aluminum transition has been tied to the F-Series, with the Expedition maintaining a steel body in its current generations.
Expedition status within Ford's aluminum strategy
Despite Ford’s overall push toward lighter materials, there has not been a model-year announcement indicating that the Expedition converted to an aluminum body. The model has remained steel-bodied across its recent redesigns, while weight reductions have come from other engineering choices and materials strategies.
Why material choices matter for the Expedition
Several factors influence whether a vehicle like the Expedition adopts aluminum broadly. The following points summarize what drives Ford’s decisions and what that means for buyers and owners.
- Weight reduction and potential fuel economy improvements are a primary motivator for aluminum adoption in trucks.
- Structural integrity and safety considerations must be balanced with weight savings, particularly for a large SUV used for towing and family transport.
- Manufacturing costs and supply chain considerations play a role; aluminum-intensive production requires different tooling and processes than steel.
- Repairability and resale dynamics can be affected by the mix of materials used in a vehicle’s body and frame.
As automotive technologies evolve, including electrification and new materials research, Ford’s approach to the Expedition’s construction could change. For now, there is no official move to an aluminum-bodied Expedition.
Summary
The short answer is that the Ford Expedition has not gone aluminum. Ford’s notable shift to aluminum occurred with the F-150 in the 2015 model year, and the Expedition has continued with a steel body in its current generations. While aluminum appears in various components across Ford’s lineup, a full aluminum Expedition has not been introduced, and weight-saving strategies have largely occurred through other engineering means. For buyers and enthusiasts, the key takeaway is that the Expedition’s construction remains distinct from the aluminum-focused transformation seen in the F-Series.
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.
What year is the best year for Ford Expedition?
The best years for the Ford Expedition are generally considered to be 2017-2024 for a modern, feature-rich option or 2012-2014 for a more traditional V8 engine and simpler electronics. Model years like 2010 and 2011 are also frequently cited for good reliability.
Top recommendations
- For a modern experience (2017-2024): This generation offers spacious interiors, powerful performance, and advanced technology.
- 2017-2019: These years feature the EcoBoost V6 engine and are considered reliable, with 2018-2019 having fewer reported problems than some earlier EcoBoost years.
- 2021: Praised for its comfortable seating and excellent ride quality, while still having strong towing capability.
- For traditional V8 power and fewer electronics (2012-2014): This is the sweet spot for those who prefer the 5.4L V8 engine.
- These years had most major issues with the V8 and its spark plugs ironed out.
- The 2012-2014 models are also noted for having fewer electronic complexities compared to later EcoBoost years.
Years to consider with caution
- Early EcoBoost years (2011-2014): While the 3.5L EcoBoost was introduced, it was the first generation, and some reliability issues like power loss and spark plug failure were reported.
- Pre-2007 models: Older models had more issues, particularly with ignition coils and sensors. Spark plug ejection was a known problem for this generation.
Other factors
- Avoid years with known issues: Be cautious of the 2018-2020 models due to high price and poor fuel economy, especially when towing.
- Consider your priorities: If you prioritize modern tech and fuel efficiency, focus on the 2017-2024 models. If you prefer a classic V8 and less complex systems, the 2012-2014 models are a great choice.
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).
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.
