Why is my Ford Expedition blowing hot air?

If your Ford Expedition is blowing hot air instead of cool air, it could be due to a few common issues with the vehicle's air conditioning (AC) system. In this article, we'll explore the potential causes and provide steps you can take to diagnose and fix the problem.

Potential Causes of Hot Air Blowing in a Ford Expedition

There are several reasons why your Ford Expedition may be blowing hot air instead of cool air. Some of the most common causes include:

• Low refrigerant levels: The AC system in your Expedition relies on refrigerant to absorb heat from the air and cool it down. If the refrigerant level is low, the system won't be able to effectively cool the air.


• Compressor issues: The compressor is the heart of the AC system, and if it's not functioning properly, the system won't be able to cool the air. This could be due to a mechanical failure or a problem with the compressor's electrical components.


• Blocked or damaged condenser: The condenser is responsible for releasing the heat absorbed by the refrigerant. If the condenser is blocked or damaged, it can't effectively dissipate the heat, leading to hot air being blown into the cabin.


• Faulty thermostat: The thermostat in your Expedition's AC system helps regulate the temperature of the air being blown into the cabin. If the thermostat is malfunctioning, it can cause the system to blow hot air.li>
  

These are some of the most common reasons why your Ford Expedition may be blowing hot air. If you're experiencing this issue, it's best to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the problem to ensure your AC system is working correctly.

Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue

To diagnose the issue with your Ford Expedition's AC system, a mechanic will likely start by checking the refrigerant levels and inspecting the compressor, condenser, and thermostat for any signs of damage or malfunction. They may also perform a pressure test to check the system's overall performance.

Once the root cause of the problem has been identified, the mechanic can then take the appropriate steps to fix the issue. This may involve recharging the refrigerant, replacing the compressor, cleaning or replacing the condenser, or replacing the thermostat. Depending on the severity of the problem, the repair cost can vary significantly.

If you're experiencing hot air blowing from your Ford Expedition's AC system, it's important to have the issue addressed as soon as possible to ensure your vehicle's comfort and safety during hot weather. By understanding the potential causes and working with a qualified mechanic, you can get your Expedition's AC system back to blowing cool, refreshing air.

How to fix a car that is blowing hot air?

To fix hot air in a car, first check the simple things: ensure the AC is on and not in "eco" mode, and try to quickly cool the cabin by opening windows and driving with them down for a short time to expel hot air. Then, inspect and clean the cabin air filter and the condenser for blockages. If the issue persists, you may have low refrigerant, which can be addressed with a DIY recharge kit, or a more serious problem like a faulty compressor that requires professional help. 
This video explains how to check for refrigerant levels using a DIY kit: 59sFixITYouTube · Jul 20, 2025
Simple checks and quick fixes

• Check settings: Make sure the AC is set to the "cool" setting and not in "eco" mode, which can limit cooling. 
• Ventilate the cabin: Before turning on the AC, open all the doors to let the hot air escape, then quickly open and close one door to fan the air out. You can also drive with windows down for a minute to circulate air. 

This video shows how to quickly cool down a hot car by using the doors to vent the hot air: 54sLJs GarageYouTube · May 28, 2023
Basic maintenance

• Replace the cabin air filter: A clogged filter can restrict airflow. Locate it behind the glove box or under the dashboard, remove the old one, and replace it. 
• Clean the condenser: The condenser is usually in front of the radiator. Clean any debris like leaves, bugs, or dirt from it to ensure proper airflow for cooling. 

Potential AC system issues

• Check refrigerant level: Low refrigerant is a common cause of hot air. You can use a DIY recharge kit with a gauge to check the level. Add refrigerant if it's low, following the instructions carefully and avoiding overcharging. 
• Inspect the compressor: The compressor is essential for circulating refrigerant. Check to see if the clutch on the compressor is spinning. If it's not, there could be an electrical issue or the compressor may be faulty. 
• Look for leaks: If you've added refrigerant and the system is low again, there is likely a leak. Professional diagnosis is best, but you can sometimes find leaks by adding a UV dye to the system and looking for glowing spots with a UV light. 

When to see a professional

• Faulty compressor: This is a complex and expensive repair that is best left to a professional. 
• Persistent problems: If the simple fixes don't work, there may be a more complex issue, like a clogged expansion valve or a major leak, that requires professional tools and expertise to diagnose and fix. 

Why is my Ford Expedition AC not blowing cold air?

Expedition AC often faces blower motor failure and faulty climate control module issues causing intermittent airflow. When the AC stops blowing air intermittently, check the blower motor resistor first, as it regulates fan speeds and can fail. Inspect the blower motor for worn brushes or electrical faults.

Why is my Ford blowing hot air?

Often, low refrigerant levels are the primary cause of AC issues, but factors like leaky hoses or a malfunctioning compressor can contribute to this problem.

What is the recall on the Ford Expedition blower motor?

A recall exists for certain 2015-2017 Ford Expeditions due to a fire risk from the front blower motor overheating, which can cause a burning smell or smoke. The recall, #22S56, involves replacing the blower motor assembly to fix the issue. Owners can check their vehicle's recall status using their VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
 
Recall details

• Vehicle identification: The recall is for certain 2015-2017 model year Ford Expeditions. 
• Recall number: 22S56. 
• Problem: The front blower motor can overheat, potentially causing a fire. 
• Symptoms: You may notice a burning smell or smoke coming from the instrument panel vents, or the blower motor may stop working. 
• Solution: The recall service includes replacing the front blower motor assembly. 

What to do

1. Check for recalls: Use your vehicle's 17-digit VIN to check for any open recalls on the NHTSA website. 
2. Schedule an appointment: If your vehicle is affected, schedule an appointment with a Ford dealership to have the recall service performed for free. 
3. Contact Ford: If you have already paid for a related repair, you may be eligible for reimbursement. Contact Ford's recall hotline or customer service for more information. 
4. Monitor your vehicle: Even if you haven't experienced the problem, it's best to get the recall addressed to prevent potential fire hazards. 

This video explains the common symptoms of a bad blower motor: 37sEasyAutoFixYouTube · Jul 9, 2022