ConsumReport = 2003 Exped has problems???
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New User
Joined: Sep 2004
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ConsumReport = 2003 Exped has problems???
I am looking at purchasing a used 2003 Expedition XLT. The offer from the dealer is pretty good.
But a recent read of ConsumerReportsl.com says that realibility of the 2003 has been poor. Unfortunately, they do not provide specifics.
Web surfing has found some people complaining about a design problem with the Ring&pinion, some rattles in the doors, and stuff. Teething problem-type stuff with the introduction of a major model change.
But then, it only takes a few posts to really slam a product. I am not finding anyone saying bad stuff about the 2004.
Are there inherent issues in the 2003? Or, more importantly, are there people out there that have had great sucess with the 2003?
Thanks - Bradley
But a recent read of ConsumerReportsl.com says that realibility of the 2003 has been poor. Unfortunately, they do not provide specifics.
Web surfing has found some people complaining about a design problem with the Ring&pinion, some rattles in the doors, and stuff. Teething problem-type stuff with the introduction of a major model change.
But then, it only takes a few posts to really slam a product. I am not finding anyone saying bad stuff about the 2004.
Are there inherent issues in the 2003? Or, more importantly, are there people out there that have had great sucess with the 2003?
Thanks - Bradley
New User
Joined: Sep 2004
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happy with my expy
I have an 03 EB Expy and I have really enjoyed owning it so far - build date is 08/02. Before i bought I read the same things you did on forums, edmunds.com consumer reviews, etc. I read about cars that idle rough, squeak & rattle, ride poorly at freeway speeds, etc. However when I talked to a couple clients/friends who own expys they had favorable reviews and are happy with their vehicles, so i bought one (used). My expy has none of the aforementioned issues - I really like it and I'm glad i bought it.
Tuned
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 447
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From: SoCal
There were some problems with the new model type. I had the dirty brakes, fading bodyside cladding and limited slip rumble. The dealer replaced the brakes and cladding, and I changed the rear diff fluid with what was specified in the owner's manual. There were a bunch of other problems that I have read about, but I have not had any other problems than those that I mentioned. There were three revisions during the model year 2003, A, B, and C. Mine is a C revision with a build date of 6/4/2003. As the model year wore on, Ford incorporated some fixes of the problems that were evident into production. I would try to stay away from an early revison with a build date prior to 6/2003.
New User
Joined: Oct 2003
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From: Redford, MI
I have a 03 EB 4x2. Build date was 12/02. Have not experienced significant issues...have had to deal with minor stuff like the outside mirrors not working properly in reverse (had fixed under warranty; no problems since) and a muffler that 'pops' on warm up and cool down (will just 'pop' once...metal expansion/contraction issue I believe). Have not had this one fixed. My dealer thought I was kinda nuts and suggested that I live with it, although they verified it. Had some vibration at 70+mph, but a wheel balance fixed that. Over all, I'd say I'm happy and that it's been a good vehicle. 
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 26,007
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From: Brentwood,CA
[QUOTE=bsmith6]I have a 03 EB 4x2. Build date was 12/02. Have not experienced significant issues...have had to deal with minor stuff like the outside mirrors not working properly in reverse (had fixed under warranty; no problems since) and a muffler that 'pops' on warm up and cool down (will just 'pop' once...metal expansion/contraction issue I believe). Have not had this one fixed. My dealer thought I was kinda nuts and suggested that I live with it, although they verified it. Had some vibration at 70+mph, but a wheel balance fixed that. Over all, I'd say I'm happy and that it's been a good vehicle. [/QU
the dealer thought i was nuts too about the muffler poping i have the same problem
[/QUthe dealer thought i was nuts too about the muffler poping i have the same problem
Freshman User
Joined: Sep 2004
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I have a 03 XLT 4x4 ( can't buy a 4x2 in Canada ) I have had to change the rear clutch packs on my Expy under warranty, and I have had the radio replaced because of a high pitched whine from the deck itself. I am also experiencing problems with the A/C freezing up. Next time I'm in for an oil change I will have to get that fixed under warranty. I am seriously considering getting an extended warranty. I am really happy with the vehicle. It's great in the snow, great for towing and lots of room for my three kids and all their sports equipment.
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Senior User
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 270
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From: N Richland Hills, TX
My 2003 Expy was built 02/2003. I also have had mine in for the rear clutch-packs, A/C freezing up, faded body-side cladding, and excessive front brake dust issues. The only thing my dealer did not take care of immediatly was the front brakes.
The greatness of this truck far outweighs all the problems I have had with it. My Expy is AWESOME and I hope to keep it for many years.
James
The greatness of this truck far outweighs all the problems I have had with it. My Expy is AWESOME and I hope to keep it for many years.
James
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Freshman User
Joined: Nov 2003
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Originally Posted by tkd
My 03 4x4 was an early 03 build. It's a piece of crap. If I could unload it, I would. I'll never buy another Ford because of it.
Honesty over popularity any day.
Honesty over popularity any day.
Freshman User
Joined: Sep 2004
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The question is what else can you buy for the same money and with the same features. The Japanese trucks are more to purchase and a lot more to repair. Mopar doesn't make anything bigger than the Durango and GM has the Suburban which is a lot bigger and not as comfortable. I like the Expy for the IRS suspension and the split folding third row. I don't mind getting problems fixed under warranty as long as they stay fixed. Any model vehicle that is introduced new or remodeled has growing pains. If you are buying used make sure the known problems are fixed or that there is some warranty left. To say it's a piece of crap is a bit harsh. Overpriced yes, but not crap. The 97 - 02 models had few problems. The 03's seem to have common problems that Ford is willing to fix.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 26,007
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From: Brentwood,CA
Originally Posted by tkd
2 ford dealerships couldn't fix mine. Now I'm out of warranty and they won't touch it.
Thanks ford
Thanks ford
Elder User
Joined: Mar 2003
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The problem was with the shake & nibble in the front end.
They have put new tires on and a new steering rack. The problem disappeared for 5k and now they say it is a separate, new problem, not a continuation.
Ford left me hanging. If I want it looked at, I have to pay. Screw that, I'll just purchase a different make next time.
No more Ford Crapeditions for me.
They have put new tires on and a new steering rack. The problem disappeared for 5k and now they say it is a separate, new problem, not a continuation.
Ford left me hanging. If I want it looked at, I have to pay. Screw that, I'll just purchase a different make next time.
No more Ford Crapeditions for me.