When did Ford stop using the 5.4 in the Expedition?
Ford phased out the 5.4-liter V8 in the Expedition after the 2017 model year, shifting to the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 for 2018 and later models.
The question asks about the point at which Ford ended the use of the 5.4-liter V8 in its full‑size SUV, a change that reflects the automaker’s broader move toward turbocharged EcoBoost engines for improved efficiency and performance in large trucks and SUVs.
Engine history in the Expedition
Below is a concise timeline of how powertrains evolved in the Expedition, highlighting when the 5.4-liter V8 was used and when the EcoBoost alternative arrived.
- 1997–2003: Expedition powered by the 5.4-liter Triton V8 (2-valve design) across early generations, establishing the model’s towing capability and power for that era.
- 2004–2017: The 5.4-liter Triton V8 continued, with updates that included the 3-valve variant in some configurations to improve power output and efficiency over time.
- 2018 onward: Ford shifted to the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 as the sole engine for Expedition models, signaling the end of the 5.4-liter V8 in this lineup.
The move to EcoBoost represented a broader Ford strategy across its large SUVs and trucks, aiming to deliver similar or better performance with improved fuel economy and tunable power characteristics through turbocharging and advanced fuel management.
Why the change mattered
The 5.4-liter V8 had been a staple for nearly two decades, offering robust torque and towing capacity. The EcoBoost replacement provided competitive power with the advantage of enhanced highway efficiency, smoother low‑end torque delivery, and better emissions performance. For buyers, the shift also aligned with a growing market preference for turbocharged, smaller-displacement engines in large vehicles.
What this means for owners and buyers
If you’re shopping for a used Expedition or maintaining an older model, you’ll likely encounter the 5.4-era engines in 2017 and earlier vehicles. For new purchases, expect the EcoBoost powertrain to be standard or widely available, with maintenance considerations differing between naturally aspirated V8 and turbocharged V6 setups.
Summary
Ford’s Expedition stopped offering the 5.4-liter V8 after the 2017 model year, transitioning to the EcoBoost 3.5-liter V6 for 2018 and later. This shift aligns with Ford’s broader move toward turbocharged engines in its full-size SUVs, balancing performance with improved fuel economy and modern emissions standards.
