I have been driving sedans most of my life, but as I look out my window I keep noticing other vehicle bumpers about even with my window. It wouldn't be much of a contest in an accident. So within a year I hope to get a little more off the ground.

We live in Lubbock TX, about 5 hours away from any other city. My driving is 95% on-road, and 5% off-road. I would be taking several long trips a year so reliability is the biggest factor in my decision.

I would be looking for a vehicle from around 2006-2008. In general, would you say trucks are more reliable than SUVs, or would they be comparable? If I got a truck, it would probably be an F150.

Thanks for any input.
Rob

 

Welcome to FTE.

I think your basis for the truck vs. SUV debate being reliability is a moot point. The main factor for your soon to be purchase is what you're going to need from a vehicle.

Truck:
- 5 maybe 6 available seats max
- little interior storage space - all large cargo exposed to the elements without some sort of bed cover.
- a truck is generally longer than the comparable SUV built on the same platform

SUV:
- anywhere from 5 to 9 available seats depending on configuration
- all cargo inside vehicle and climate controlled
- generally shorter in length, slightly easier to park, etc

How large is your family?
Do you have dogs, etc that would be traveling with you?
What are your NEEDS from the new vehicle and what are your WANTS as well?

Reliability is a non-factor really, as any vehicle can have a mechanical breakdown...but with proper maintenance, most problems can be avoided.
The 2004-2008 F150 and the 2003-2006 Expedition share a platform. The 2009+ F150 and the 2007+ Expedition are kissing cousins as well. Size and fuel mileage are a major concern. It's unlikely that you'll ever see 20+ MPG from the F150 or Expy, if that is a concern then you may want to consider the Explorer or the Flex (both SUVs) for your needs.

Enjoy!

 

The only thing that I would add in overall reliability is that an Expedition, being Ford's large truck based SUV has some additional goodies that F-150's don't have.

For instance, optional load leveling suspension (air driven) and those damned rear vent motors that control the air vents in the ducting. These things are a POS.

The F-150 Scab and Screw are longer wheel base vehicles than a standard length Expy and thus has a different feel. The Expy has a four wheel independent suspension and handles great on the road, it's a real cruiser.

Overall, I like the feel, handling and ride of my F-150 better than my Expy. My Expy however has been right on point, reliable, easy to maintain and she looks great.

 

I went from a '00 expedition to an '05 F150 Screw as my family vehicle, and it's all about how you use it.

The Expy was about a foot shorter, and had that problematic air suspension. The F150, even with the 5.5' bed, has quite a bit more cargo room. We got a camper shell topper to keep all the kids stuff dry, and we're really happy with it.

Another thing to note, is that the Expedition usually commands a higher price on the used market, since it's a favourite of the soccer mom group. For some reason, Pickups are cheaper, even well equipped ones. .

 

There is a third alternative to this discussion.
A van.
While it is a truck (See vehicle codes) it has all of the SUV traits.
Best of both worlds. Well maybe better than both.

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Mine is set up to seat 6 on a 141" WB.
That's 1 more than a SC, and 2 less than a Excursion.
I can swap out the rear 2 Captains chairs for a fold down bench adding 1 more seating position.
One thing a truck can do that my van can not is tow a fifth-wheel.
But I prefer a receiver pull to fifth-wheels anyway.