2018 Ford Expedition Problems

My 2018 Ford Expedition with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine has developed a pronounced rattling/knocking noise at startup. This appears consistent with the well documented cam phaser/VCT problem affecting this engine family. At approximately 118,212 miles, an independent Firestone Complete Auto Care inspected the vehicle and recommended major timing system repairs. Their estimate calls for replacement of the timing chain components and variable timing sprockets/cam phasers, with a total recommended repair cost of $5,232.13. 220782OrderRevisions.Pdf The concern is not simply the noise. The cam phasers and timing system control critical valve timing. If these components continue to deteriorate, there is a risk of improper engine timing, severe drivability problems, loss of power, stalling, or significant internal engine damage. A failure while traveling at highway speeds or in traffic could create a serious safety hazard for the occupants and surrounding motorists. There have not yet been warning lights or dashboard messages associated with the condition. The primary symptom has been the recurring startup rattle/knock, which has now been confirmed by an independent repair facility as requiring substantial timing system repair. The vehicle remains available for inspection. This has been an ongoing issue for the last few months but was first diagnosed on September 12, 2026 during a repair for another unrelated issue. I am especially concerned because this is not an isolated or unusual type of failure on the 3.5L EcoBoost. Ford has previously recognized cam phaser/VCT startup noise on these engines through service guidance. A known timing-related defect requiring more than $5,000 in repairs, with the potential to progress into engine damage or loss of engine performance, represents a significant reliability and potential safety concern.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. While the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission independently shifted into park. The check engine warning light illuminated, and the transmission brake error message was displayed. The vehicle was turned off. The vehicle was restarted; however, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the failure reoccurred. The failure was a persistent failure. The dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V402000 (Power Train); and the VIN was associated with the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

My 2018 Ford Expedition with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine has developed a pronounced rattling/knocking noise at startup. This appears consistent with the well documented cam phaser/VCT problem affecting this engine family. At approximately 118,212 miles, an independent Firestone Complete Auto Care inspected the vehicle and recommended major timing system repairs. Their estimate calls for replacement of the timing chain components and variable timing sprockets/cam phasers, with a total recommended repair cost of $5,232.13. 220782OrderRevisions.Pdf The concern is not simply the noise. The cam phasers and timing system control critical valve timing. If these components continue to deteriorate, there is a risk of improper engine timing, severe drivability problems, loss of power, stalling, or significant internal engine damage. A failure while traveling at highway speeds or in traffic could create a serious safety hazard for the occupants and surrounding motorists. There have not yet been warning lights or dashboard messages associated with the condition. The primary symptom has been the recurring startup rattle/knock, which has now been confirmed by an independent repair facility as requiring substantial timing system repair. The vehicle remains available for inspection. This has been an ongoing issue for the last few months but was first diagnosed on September 12, 2026 during a repair for another unrelated issue. I am especially concerned because this is not an isolated or unusual type of failure on the 3.5L EcoBoost. Ford has previously recognized cam phaser/VCT startup noise on these engines through service guidance. A known timing-related defect requiring more than $5,000 in repairs, with the potential to progress into engine damage or loss of engine performance, represents a significant reliability and potential safety concern.

I noticed a loud rattle when starting my 2018 Ford Expedition, at first occasionally and then on every cold start. The Ford Dealer's service department diagnosed a cam phaser issue. There were no warning lights or messages available to me, but the service department's diagnosis showed several timing faults. I was told the cam phaser repair is $4000 - $5000 and continued use puts the engine and transmission at risk. I contacted Ford customer service and was told that my vehicle was not eligible for assistance with these repairs and that my level of loyalty also did not make me eligible for assistance. I have maintained this vehicle with oil changes, fluid changes, tire and brake maintenance for the life of the vehicle. I would like the NHTSA to investigate Ford for a recall of the cam phasers and effected parts since this is a known and prominent issue that also impacts road safey.

The infotainment screen that includes the rear backup camera stopped working intermittently and then completely. The dealer's service department identified that the APIM, a module involved in operating the screen had failed. The backup camera is a significant and necessary safety feature for such a large vehicle. The dealer ordered the new part and replaced it at significant expense. There was no warning of this issue, and the only symptom was the intermittent delay of the infotainment system turning on upon startup of the vehicle.

Engine light stays on along with manual light and charging system service now. Battery, alternator changed out, 3 mechanic repair shops can not find what is wrong. Vehicle bogs down and does not run right when the Manuel light comes one which is about 2 times a week.

This is a widespread problem across the Ford expedition. I've read forum after forum, facebook group after facebook group and have seen that many expeditions are affected by this. The front end of the Expedition; primarily the steering and suspension components, cause a strong vibration when approaching 70-75 miles per hour. I have replaced the tires on my Expedition and had them mounted and balanced by Ford, only for the problem to still exist. I mentioned this to Ford directly and they told me that there is no way for them to replicate the problem because they won't take the vehicle over the local speed limit. However where I drive all across the country for work, the speed limit is approximately 70 -75 miles per hour. This is a severe issue as Vibrations could easily cause an accident.

While driving on to a rough area such as a bridge crossing the vehicle exhibited excessive bouncing and caused the direction of travel toward the next lane. Repairs to the front struts were made at the dealership where the vehicle was originally purchased. The repair part was described as JL1Z 18124 E Shock Absorber Asy. The service advisor said struts are described this way due to the way it is listed in the parts catalog. Since this repair the vehicle has increasingly repeated the same bouncing and driveability to the extent that another service call is required.

Daytime running LED lights in headlights have stopped working. Unable to replace bulb/fix due to having to replace the entire head lamp assembly.

Front passenger DRL fail in lower 2/3 of LED strip. Im afraid other cars won't see me as well. No warnings on the inside dash display. A car flagged me down to tell me.

I noticed a loud rattle when starting my 2018 Ford Expedition, at first occasionally and then on every cold start. The Ford Dealer's service department diagnosed a cam phaser issue. There were no warning lights or messages available to me, but the service department's diagnosis showed several timing faults. I was told the cam phaser repair is $4000 - $5000 and continued use puts the engine and transmission at risk. I contacted Ford customer service and was told that my vehicle was not eligible for assistance with these repairs and that my level of loyalty also did not make me eligible for assistance. I have maintained this vehicle with oil changes, fluid changes, tire and brake maintenance for the life of the vehicle. I would like the NHTSA to investigate Ford for a recall of the cam phasers and effected parts since this is a known and prominent issue that also impacts road safey.

"Verified internal hydraulic cross leak due to CDF drum bushing movement. Transmission has delayed engagement in 4th, 5th, and 6th gears. This is a known manufacturing defect in the 10R80 transmission."

Subject: Safety Complaint – 2018 Ford Expedition Brake Master Cylinder Recall 25S37 / NHTSA 25V236 I am filing this complaint regarding my 2018 Ford Expedition, which is subject to an open Ford brake master-cylinder recall, Recall 25S37 / NHTSA Recall 25V236. I am currently experiencing brake fluid loss around the brake master cylinder/brake booster area. Because this is directly related to the braking system and the vehicle is subject to an open brake master-cylinder recall, I believe this vehicle presents a potential safety concern and needs to be properly inspected. I contacted Ford regarding the recall and explained that I am losing brake fluid in the area of the master cylinder and brake booster. I requested that the vehicle be inspected to determine whether the recall condition is present and that the brake booster be checked for brake-fluid contamination or leakage. I was told that my vehicle is approximately six months too late to receive the recall repair/replacement and that they would not allow me to bring the vehicle in for inspection under the recall. I have not yet confirmed the part number of the master cylinder currently installed on my vehicle, and I intend to do so to determine whether it is the same component addressed by the recall. My concern is that I am experiencing a symptom that appears directly related to the component identified in the recall, yet I am being denied an inspection simply because of the timing/eligibility issue. I am requesting that NHTSA review this matter and determine: 1. Whether my vehicle should be inspected for the condition identified in Recall 25S37 / NHTSA 25V236 despite the expiration or timing issue stated by Ford. 2. Whether brake-fluid leakage around the master cylinder/brake booster area is a known symptom or consequence of the recalled component. 3. Whether Ford should inspect the vehicle and determine whether the installed master cylinder is the recalled part.

I am submitting this complaint regarding potential safety issues with my 2018 Ford Expedition Max Platinum. I purchased the vehicle from Sandy Sansing Chevrolet in Pensacola, Florida, and discovered several problems shortly after purchase that I believe may affect the vehicle's safe operation. Within days of purchasing the vehicle, it began displaying an intermittent **low oil pressure warning** while driving. Because a low oil pressure condition can lead to engine damage, loss of power, or engine failure, I believe this presents a potential safety concern. The dealership's inspection report completed before the sale states: **"Has multiple minor oil leaks, wet but not dripping yet."** I had the vehicle independently inspected by Firestone, which determined the oil leak was coming from the timing cover/timing case area and estimated approximately $3,000 in repairs. I am concerned that the documented oil leak and intermittent low oil pressure warning could increase the risk of engine failure while the vehicle is in operation. I have also experienced what I believe is a brake safety concern. Although the dealership's inspection report indicates the brakes and rotors had been serviced, the brake pedal feels unusually soft or spongy and requires more pedal travel and pressure than expected before the brakes engage. While the vehicle currently stops, I am concerned this condition could reduce braking performance or increase stopping distance. Additional issues include intermittent operation of the power running boards, a non-functioning rear window washer, and a detached rear window defroster electrical connection. I am submitting this complaint so NHTSA can determine whether these issues are isolated to my vehicle or may indicate a broader safety-related defect affecting other 2018 Ford Expedition vehicles. I can provide the dealership inspection report, Firestone inspection and repair estimate, photographs, and other supporting documentation upon request.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V099000 (Seat Belts), 26V344000 (Seat Belts), 26V368000 (Structure), and 26V402000 (Power Train); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V197000 (Seat Belts), 26V344000 (Seat Belts), 26V368000 (Structure), and 26V402000 (Power Train); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

THERE IS A SEAT BELT RECALL AND 3 OTHER RECALLS THAT FORD CORP OFFICE AND THE DEALERSHIP IN HENDERSON NC TOLD ME THE PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE UNTIL 2027 AND I AM EXPECTED TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE PLEASE HELP ME

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V099000 (Seat Belts), 26V344000 (Seat Belts), 26V368000 (Structure), and 26V402000 (Power Train); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. While contact's son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the low tire pressure warning light illuminated. The contact's son drove the vehicle to the intended destination. The contact's son inspected the tires and determined that the front passenger’s side tire was cracked and needed to be replaced. The contact arrived at the location. The contact and son attempted to remove the lug nuts and bolts; however, the OEM provided lug removal tool did not fit the nuts and bolts. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where the contact was informed that in hotter states the nuts and bolts occasionally would become swollen, and the provided lug tool would not work as intended. The contact requested that all the nuts and bolts be replaced, to prevent the failure from reoccurring. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

The wheel nuts on my vehicle are defective. The Ford Dealership had to replace all twenty-four of them for "swelling". Evidently, the design of these wheel nuts (Ford part number ACPZ 1012 M) makes it impossible to remove without destroying them because of their defective design. According to Ford Customer Care, these parts are considered wear items and are not covered under warranty. In my opinion, wheel nuts may be considered a safety item, should they fail or if they are not removeable with customary tools during roadside emergencies. I purchased this vehicle new in October 2018 and since then several Ford Dealerships have said they have issues installing and removing with these particular wheel nuts, and most are destroyed in the removal process. They have voiced their concerns to Ford with no remedy thus far. I am told these parts are also on various models of F-150 trucks. While I do not expect NHTSA to issue a recall for this issue, I would hope that a voluntary recall program could be enacted by Ford wherein these wheel nuts are replaced free of charge when service is performed requiring the wheels to be removed.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power inadvertently. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts; however, the vehicle sputtered while restarting. The contact was able to continue driving. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V392000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included. Additionally, the dealer informed the contact that oil was leaking from the timing valve cover and the front struts. The dealer also informed the contact that the transmission lines were leaking. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 64,500.

Our 2018 Ford Expedition Max caught fire while on a test drive after repairs at Canby Ford. It completely caught fire and is a total loss. We were supposed to pick up the car an hour later. If our kids were in the car strapped into car seats, there may not have been enough time to get them out. They could have died. The mechanic who was driving saw the engine smoking and jumped out (he was at risk). The whole car was gone within 2-3 minutes. In my opinion it exploded as all the windows were blown out. The motor block melted, and the front end of the car is gone. There is a report with Canby Oregon Fire Department. Most people would assume it was overheating, get out and open the hood with their family still in the car. If that had happened people could have died. There were no check engine lights on when we took it to Ford. It was just close to the end of a warranty and there was an engine rattle we wanted fixed. Please come look at the car to investigate. It is at an independent insurance valuation company. I asked the manager of Canby Ford if he would report it to Ford Motor Company, he said no it would just go through their insurance. Ford needs to recall all of the expeditions so someone doesn't die in a fire. Ford already settled on the 2021 Ford Expedition and there are fires on older models and similar F150 Trucks. There are many reported fires without a recall. Please recall all the expeditions and investigate all the other Ford Vehicle fires swept under the rug. We don't want someone else to die due to a lack of action. The previous Ford Expedition settlement is not enough as it only covers 2021. If nothing is done, we plan to go public on the news with the photos, hopefully we can say NHTSA did something (or we can say NHTSA did nothing). Other families are at risk, they need to know to get out fast cause it could catch fire or explode. They need to not assume the engine is overheating (as I would have done 2 months ago) it could be on fire .

Suspected Safety Defect – Windshield Wiper System Effected Vehicle Information Vehicle 1 - 2018 Ford Expedition MAX Vehicle 2 - 2017 Ford F-350 SuperCrew 4x4 Description of Defect Both vehicles experienced the same windshield wiper failure. The wipers gradually slowed, became sluggish, and eventually stopped working during normal use. Available repair information and owner reports indicate the likely cause is corrosion and seizure of the wiper pivot shafts and linkage, which overloads the motor and leads to failure. Safety Hazard Loss of wiper function in rain or poor weather severely reduces visibility and creates a serious crash risk, leaving drivers unable to operate safely. Evidence of a Broader Pattern This issue appears widespread. Many Ford owners report similar symptoms, including slowing wipers, increased resistance, seized pivots, and complete failure requiring linkage replacement. Technicians commonly identify seized pivot shafts as the cause. Ford has issued recalls on other models for wiper-related defects, recognizing the safety risk of sudden failure. Request for Investigation Because two separate vehicles experienced the same failure, I request that NHTSA investigate whether corrosion-related seizure of wiper components in 2017–2018 Ford Expedition and Super Duty vehicles is a broader safety defect. If confirmed, I request an appropriate remedy, such as a recall or extended warranty. I can provide supporting documentation if needed.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that the sunroof made a grinding sound while retracting and failed to close properly. Additionally, the slide cover was unable to close as designed. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact believed that the failure was related to the sunroof motor or the gears, or both. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and opened a case. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

In below-freezing weather, the driver's side door latch of our 2018 Ford Expedition cannot be operated from the inside or outside of the vehicle, greatly limiting the occupant's ability to enter or exit the vehicle. A Ford technician advised today that the latch would need to be replaced. There were no indicators of a malfunction. Similar year Ford F-150s are covered for this issue by Ford's Customer Satisfaction Program 18N03. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2018/MC-10148744-9999.pdf

The rear doors don’t unlock frequently. They won’t open from inside or outside often and require repeated unlocking of locks. The manual lock pulls on top of panel are too recessed to grab and pull. The drivers door never comes up at all.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, another vehicle drove through a stop sign, causing the contact to T-bone the other vehicle, causing damage to the front end of the vehicle. The contact stated that no air bags did not deploy in his vehicle. The contact stated that he sustained whiplash to the neck and upper back. No medical attention was required. The contact mentioned the vehicle was towed to a collision center. The contact stated that a police report was filed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and they informed him to take the vehicle to the dealership. The approximate failure mileage was 88,000.

Driver side seat belt air bag popped while driving down the road and now the seat belt will not retract. shows that this is a known issue in my year model but this is not a recall for my specific vin.

This is a widespread problem across the Ford expedition. I've read forum after forum, facebook group after facebook group and have seen that many expeditions are affected by this. The front end of the Expedition; primarily the steering and suspension components, cause a strong vibration when approaching 70-75 miles per hour. I have replaced the tires on my Expedition and had them mounted and balanced by Ford, only for the problem to still exist. I mentioned this to Ford directly and they told me that there is no way for them to replicate the problem because they won't take the vehicle over the local speed limit. However where I drive all across the country for work, the speed limit is approximately 70 -75 miles per hour. This is a severe issue as Vibrations could easily cause an accident.

VEHICLE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE/RIM/CYLINDER HAS A POPPING SOUND. IT POPS AS IF THE CALIBER OR BRAKES HAVE SOMETHING BROKE OR DIRT IN IT. I CAN HEAR THIS WHEN DRIVING SLOW AND WHEN IN REVERSE BACKING UP. ONLY HEAR SOUND WHEN DRIVING. BROUGHT THIS TO THE ATTENTION OF THE DEALERSHIP WHEN I PURCHASE THE VEHICLE, TOOK BACK TO DEALERSHIP TWICE AND THEY COULD NOT FIND OR FIX THIS PROBLEM.

See attached document for complaint.

The contact owns 2018 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving uphill at 35 MPH, the transmission struggled to shift into gear, and upon depressing the accelerator pedal the RPM became elevated, until the transmission shifted into gear allowing to vehicle to continue driving. The contact stated that the message "See Owner’s Manual" was displayed. The contact drove the vehicle to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the transmission control module had failed and the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 122,000.

Air conditioning unit has failed and after further investigation there is metal found in compressor which forces a full replacement of the AC unit. After further investigation (online forums and discussion with dealerships) this is not uncommon. The compressors are faulty and for a 5 year old car to find metal and replace air conditioning issues multiple times in past few years.