OK guys, getting ready to turn 175K on the odometer on my '03 Expedition - 5.4L XLT 4x4.

I've taken great care of this rig, and it has performed wonderfully once I had a few bugs (ie. clutch packs) worked out years ago under warranty. In fact, it seems to get better with age. I've never had a vehicle with this kind of mileage on it, but having just checked prices on new Expeditions and F150s, I'm wondering what needs to be done to keep it on the road for a few more years, while not leaving me stranded in the process.

Other than keeping up with fluid changes, what should I look for here? Should I have the serpentine belt (last changed at 90K) or starter replaced? What about the fuel pump? I believe that would require dropping the fuel tank. Just looking for some input from you guys with experience with high-mileage Fords on what issues you experienced that I can address now. Any input you have on what you tend to do at this point in a vehicle's life to keep it on the road would be appreciated.

This SUV runs and drives too well to give away to a dealership, and I think it has a lot of life left. However, some (relatively) cheap insurance would be nice regarding preventative maintenance.

Thanks in advance!

 

Inspect your serpentine belt and check for cracks, if it looks cracked and worn, replace it. If not, just buy one and throw it in the back with the jack just in case. Doesn't hurt to have one if you get unlucky and it snaps one day. Also inspect idler pulleys and belt tensioner, as well as power steering pump, alternator, water pump and AC compressor when you have the belt off. Check for slack or loose pulleys, or noise when spinning that would indicate bad bearings.

If the starter and fuel pumps perform their duties as they should and don't have any symptoms, just leave them alone. I wouldn't spend money on expensive parts unless they are showing symptoms of going bad.

Other than that, change fluids, replace plugs, inspect coil rubber boots and springs, replace as necessary. Inspect brakes and rubber boots on steering rack and CV joints front and rear, inspect ball joints, tie rods, brake and fuel lines and that's about it. Consider replacing fluids in differentials and transfer case as well. If you don't have any specific problems with the truck, there's no need to replace any parts other than the normal consumable ones and then inspect everything, specially rubber parts and bushings as rubber do deteriorate over time.

 

Thanks for the sound and sage advice Skauber.

I think I'll go ahead and replace the serpentine belt for peace of mind, keep up the routine maintenance and fluid flushes, have my mechanic give her the once over as well, and just keep driving.

From what I've read, these modular V8s should go 250K without too much concern.

 

Yeah, if you take care of them, they last a really long time. Proper maintenance and repairing issues as they arise will ensure the longevity of the engine, but it goes quickly downhill if the maintenance is lacking and minor issues is left long enough to cause larger issues.