2002 Ford Expedition

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 340 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 4 times.

Avoid One of the Ford Expedition years to avoid: an unusual share of fires, crashes and deaths for a car of its age. Which Ford Expedition years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
84,000 milesMedian miles at failure

262 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.

Most common 2002 Ford Expedition problems

110 of the 340 complaints (32%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine46
080
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration40
2170
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine · engine36
010
Electrical System30
0141
Engine21
060
Seat Belts14
102
Tires › Tread/Belt11
000
Air Bags › Frontal · airbags10
9115
Tires9
001
Vehicle Speed Control › Cruise Control · throttle and acceleration8
050

2002 Ford Expedition engine problems

32% of all complaints

110 of the 340 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:

  • loses power7% · 8
  • leaks oil or fluid5% · 6
  • smokes or smells of burning5% · 5

Share of the 110 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
105,000 mi
median of 101 reports
Peak year of filing
2010
20 engine complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
0 · 16 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the engine
None
“While driving my 2002 FORD expedition (5.4l) on the interstate, I heard a loud pop and the vehicle immediately lost power and decelerated in heavy traffic. The nearby FORD dealer determined that the no.7 spark plug had "blown out". The dealer indicated that they "see this all the time" with this engine.”
Owner complaint, filed Apr 28, 2011 at 162,000 miles
“While driving my youngest daughter to school there was a loud bang from under the hood and a noticeable loss of power. It sounded like the car had a severe exhaust leak. When taken to my local dealer I was informed that a spark plug had blown out of the engine and that this was a very common occurrence with the 2002 5.4 liter engine. I was told that repairs would run anywhere from $700 to $3500. *tr”
Owner complaint, filed Jun 13, 2010 at 120,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2002: 21 complaints, 2 about the engine'022003: 27 complaints, 1 about the engine2004: 21 complaints, 0 about the engine'042005: 36 complaints, 4 about the engine2006: 28 complaints, 8 about the engine'062007: 28 complaints, 9 about the engine2008: 32 complaints, 18 about the engine'082009: 25 complaints, 15 about the engine2010: 29 complaints, 20 about the engine'102011: 21 complaints, 7 about the engine2012: 24 complaints, 15 about the engine'122013: 6 complaints, 0 about the engine2014: 9 complaints, 2 about the engine'142015: 9 complaints, 0 about the engine2016: 9 complaints, 6 about the engine'162017: 6 complaints, 2 about the engine2018: 0 complaints, 0 about the engine'182019: 2 complaints, 0 about the engine2020: 0 complaints, 0 about the engine'202021: 1 complaints, 1 about the engine2022: 4 complaints, 0 about the engine'222023: 0 complaints, 0 about the engine2024: 2 complaints, 0 about the engine'24Recall 03V094000 (body and frame)Recall 05V388000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 06E056000 (fuel system)Recall 06E067000 (headlights)NHTSA investigation DP05005
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2002 Expedition peaked in 2005, with 36 filed that year. No recall on file covers the engine, the subject of 32% of the complaints. In 2024 owners filed 2 so far.

4 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E067000
Filed Aug 1, 200619,413 vehiclesMaxzone Auto Parts Corporation

Defect. CERTAIN MAXZONE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 331-1129L-ASN AND 331-1129R-ASN, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. MAXZONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAXZONE AT 909-822-3288.

Fuel System, Gasoline06E056000
Filed Jun 13, 200658,640 vehiclesUfi Filters USA

Defect. CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE CONNECTION MAY BELIEVE THAT THE QUICK CONNECTOR IS FULLY ATTACHED.

Risk. FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. UFI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT UFI FILTERS USA AT 800-230-5876.

Vehicle Speed Control05V388000
Filed Sep 7, 20054,500,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.

Risk. A FIRE AT THE SWITCH COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. BY LETTER DATED SEPTEMBER 12, 2005, OWNERS WERE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERS TO HAVE THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH DISCONNECTED. OWNERS WHO HAVE HAD THEIR SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATED ARE BEING NOTIFIED THAT PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE AND ADVISED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO RECONNECT THE SPEED CONTROL BEGINNING IN FEBRUARY 2006. OWNERS WHO DID NOT HAVE THEIR SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATED ARE BEING NOTIFIED TO HAVE THEIR SYSTEM REMEDIED BEGINNING IN FEBRUARY 2006. OWNERS ARE URGED TO AVAIL THEMSELVES OF THE FREE DISCONNECT SERVICE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF THE SIGNIFICANT RISK OF FIRE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. (NOTE: ALSO SEE RECALLS 05V017 AND 06V286)

Structure03V094000
Filed Mar 7, 20033,674 vehiclesSouthern Comfort Conversions

Defect. CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCK, VAN, AND MINI VAN CONVERSIONS EQUIPPED WITH SOUTHERN COMFORT BUILT RUNNING BOARDS THAT CONTAIN CERTAIN COURTESY LIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY COMPONENTS, INC. THESE UNITS CONTAIN A COURTESY LIGHT OR LIGHTS THAT MIGHT OVERHEAT WHEN THE WIRE HARNESS IS EXPOSED TO EXCESSIVE MOISTURE AND ROAD SALT.

Risk. THIS OVERHEATING CONDITION CAN CAUSE THE RUNNING BOARD TO MELT OR CAUSE A FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESS ON THESE RUNNING BOARDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 7, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SOUTHERN COMFORT AT 1-800-745-6096.

All 4 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 2 name the 2002 Expedition.

SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEADDefect petition DP05005Closed
Opened Sep 22, 2005Closed Jan 4, 2006engine

On september 6, 2005, odi received a petition requesting that the agency investigate allegations of engine spark plug ejection in certain model year 1997 through 2004 FORD vehicles with triton v-8 and v-10 engines.odi received a total of 474 non-duplicative complaints on the subject vehicles where the complainant, or the dealer repairing the vehicle, reported that a spark plug detached from the cylinder and/or ejected from the engine.as of december 8, 2005, odi is not aware of any allegations where the alleged defect resulted in a loss of vehicle control, a crash, an injury, or a fatality in …

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRESEngineering analysis EA05005Closed
Opened Mar 22, 2005Closed Aug 2, 2006Led to recall 05V388000electrical system

Ea05-005 is closed with FORD?s actions in recalls 05v-017, 05v-388, and 06v-286, recalling approximately 6.7 million vehicles equipped with texas instruments speed control deactivation switches (scds).the brake systems in these recalled vehicles generate a vacuum that can potentially cause the scds to fail and, in certain switch installation orientations, catch fire.FORD is also including the entire population of 1998 explorers.FORD has informed odi that testing to determine the cause of failures in the 1998 explorers will continue after this investigation is closed.odi believes that the …

Technical service bulletins

102 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2002 Expedition. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 23electrical system 13transmission 12suspension 11body and frame 7visibility 6fuel system 6steering 6
02M01Service campaignJun 1, 2004engine

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM 02M01 SUPPLEMENT #4. CERTAIN FORD 2000 THROUGH 2003 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A TUBE-MOUNTED EGR PRESSURE SENSOR - ADDITIONAL EGR PRESSURE SENSOR WARRANTY COVERAGE. *TT SUPPLEMENT #3. *MJ SUPPLEMENT #6. *TT

07212Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 1, 2007engine

SOME 1997-2008 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 4.6L 2V, 5.4L 2V, OR 6.8L 2V ENGINE--SPARK PLUG THREAD REPAIR PROCEDURE--NOT COVERED UNDER NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY. *NJ THIS INCLUDES F-53 MOTORHOME CHASSIS. UPDATED 2/23/10. *PE

041601Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 14, 2005engine

WDS COP KIT DIAGNOSTIC TIP - COIL ON PLUG (COP) IGNITION SYSTEMS - ENGINE MISFIRE OR ROUGH RUNNING. *TT

0554Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 21, 2005engine

USE OF STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST STUDS IN SERVICE FOR 5.4L 2V ENGINE. *TT

05417Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 7, 2005engine

INTERMITTENT ROUGH IDLE - NON-COMMANDED EGR (EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE) FLOW. *TT

031404Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 23, 2004engine

ENGINE MISFIRE OR RUNNING - COIL ON PLUG (COP) IGNITION SYSTEMS - WDS COP KIT DIAGNOSTIC TIPS. TO INCLUDE VARIOUS 2005 MODELS. * AR THIS ARTICLE 04161 SUPERSEDES TSB 03-14-04.

Showing the newest 6 of 23 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2002 Ford Expedition 4-DR.———★★★★★—

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Vehicle Speed ControlFire
Filed Jul 20, 2024CA

Cruise control deactivation switch. I was getting in my truck on my way to work in the early morning. as I walked by the hood I could smell what seemed like burning wire, so I opened the hood & right as I got it all the way up flames started shooting up. I put the fire out and had to wait to call my mechanic he came and told me it was definitely the deactivation switch that had caught fire.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jun 6, 2024163,745 milesCA

The contact's fiancée owns a 2002 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that there was smoke coming from the driver's side front end of the vehicle. The contact stated that while his fiancée was attempting to drive the vehicle the following day, the brake pedal was depressed but was firm, requiring the contact's fiancée to step on the brake pedal to drive. The brake pedal remained on the floorboard and was inoperable, causing the contact's fiancée to shift to park(P) to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the speed control deactivation switch (SCDS) connectors had burned, and the brake fluid had leaked from the brake fluid reservoir. The dealer replaced the SCDS sensor and harness under NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V388000 (Vehicle Speed Control). The dealer declined to perform repairs for collateral damages. The contact stated that he was an auto-electrician mechanic who owned an auto shop. The vehicle was then towed to the contact's auto repair shop, where mechanics replaced the brake master cylinder and cleaned the brake fluid off the engine bay. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 163,745.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 23, 2022SC

My spark plugs are going bad, I bought three tires. But now I'm having to take it to the shop because it's weird noises coming from the tire it may be the wheel baring or sway bar link and bushing the mechanic say.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 7, 2022TX

Re: IR 11467550. See attached photo.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 4, 2022TX

2002 expedition mfg date 12/2001 right front brake separated at swagged fitting to short tubing to caliper. had just parked, stopped fine. next day all fluid had drained through separated hose.

FirerelatedFire
Filed Jan 5, 2022146,457 milesCA

The contact owns a 2002 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, it caught fire. The fire started from under the hood of the vehicle. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with water. An independent mechanic came to the contact's residence and diagnosed that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V017000 (Vehicle Speed Control) however, the contact did not receive notification of the recall. The mechanic informed the contact that the speed control deactivation switch caused the fire that damaged the hydraulic control unit and the pigtail. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The dealer confirmed that the failure was related to the recall. However, the dealer denied the recall repair since the recall was open for many years but was left unrepaired. The contact stated that she had owned the vehicle for a couple of months and was not aware there was a recall. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 146,457.

Engine
Filed Jan 19, 2021256,547 milesTX

I HAVE REPLACE THE DRIVE BELT 2 TIMES THIS MONTH. THE BELT KEEP MESSING UP NOW I HAVE GET ANOTHER BELT BECAUSE IT IS TWISTED AROUND THE TENSIONER. I DON'T KNOW HIW IT HAPPEN I DRIVE ALL THAT DAY.

Seat Belts
Filed Nov 24, 2019FL

THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT DISCONNECTS AT RANDOM TIMES.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 7, 2019153 milesCA

TWO WEEKS BEFORE THIS PROBLEM HAPPEN ,THE TRUCK STARTS MAKING TOMUCH NOISE AND AIR SUPENTION DIDN'T GO UP NO MORE . AND STOP MAKING NOISE .

Electrical System
Filed Dec 3, 2017TX

CRUSE CONTROL NOT WORKING AND NO HORN

Vehicle Speed ControlFire
Filed Jul 10, 2017183,000 milesCT

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONTACT SMELLED A BURNING ODOR. THE CONTACT FOUND THAT THE MASTER CYLINDER CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS NOT CONTACTED. A FIRE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO CROWLEY FORD LINCOLN (225 NEW BRITAIN AVE, PLAINVILLE, CT 06062) WHERE IT WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THE DEALER DID NOT GIVE A DIAGNOSIS, BUT CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER MULTIPLE TIMES TO DETERMINE WHAT FORD SHOULD COVER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V017000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE MANUFACTURER PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: CAS12637815 AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO CALL HIS INSURANCE COMPANY. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY WOULD SEND AN INSPECTOR. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 183,000. UPDATED 09/07/17*LJ *CN

Engine
Filed May 4, 2017CA

TWO SPARK PLUGS BLEW OUT OF THE HEAD. PAIN IN THE BUTT TO FIX. FORD NEEDS TO STAND BEHIND ITS NAME AND FIX THE KNOWN PROBLEM.

Engine
Filed May 3, 2017170,000 milesGA

I WENT TO GET AN OIL CHANGE I WAS TOLD BY WORKER AT SHOP THAT EVERYTHING UNDER HOOD WAS RUSTY AND CHANCES ARE THAT THIS TRUCK WAS IN THE NEW ORLEANS FLOOD (KATRINA) IT WAS DOWN HILL FROM THEN. EVERYTHING STARTED TO MALFUNCTION.

Suspension
Filed Apr 29, 2017240,000 milesNC

TAKATA RECALL DURING AN INSPECTION OF MY SUSPENSION FOR WORN BUSHINGS, I NOTED SEVERE CORROSION ON MY REAR TRAILING ARMS FOR THE REAR AXLE. THE LOWER ARM ON THE PASSENGER SIDE ACTUALLY HAD A QUARTER SIZE HOLE IN THE INBOARD SIDE OF THE WEB. THIS OBVIOUSLY GREATLY REDUCES THE STRENGTH OF THE ARMS AND COULD CAUSE AXLE SEPARATION FROM THE VEHICLE AND AN OBVIOUS CONTROL HAZARD.

Seat Belts
Filed Mar 2, 2017170,000 milesAZ

THE SEAT BELTS FRONT, PASSENGER SIDE UNLOCK BY THEMSELVES WHILE IN MOTION. IT CAN HAPPEN DURING CITY OR HIGHWAY DRIVING. THIS HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED BY ANYONE AND IS FACTORY ORIGINAL. SEEMS LIKE A DANGER TO PASSENGERS.

Engine
Filed Dec 31, 2016129,000 milesCA

THIS IS ABOUT A BLOWN OUT SPARK PLUG. THE BLOWN OUT SPARK PLUG (#4 ON PASSENGER SIDE)) HAPPENED WHEN MY FAMILY & I WERE TRAVELING IN HIGHWAY NEAR STOCKTON CA AT AROUND 5 PM. THERE WAS NO SHOP OPEN AND I HAD TO CALL AAA TO TOW THE 2002 FORD EXPEDITION TO OUR FRIEND'S HOUSE ABOUT 30 MILES AWAY. IT WAS ALSO A VERY COLD NIGHT AND WE WAITED FOR ABOUT 1 HR FOR THE TOW TRUCK TO ARRIVE. IT WAS INCREDIBLY INCONVENIENT FOR THIS INCIDENT TO HAPPEN ON THE FREEWAY/HIGHWAY. I HEARD THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM FOR THE OLDER EXPEDITION WITH TRITON ENGINE. I LOVE FORD TRUCKS/SUVS AND I HOPE THEY CAN FIX THIS PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINE BEFORE SOMEBODY GETS IN SERIOUS TROUBLE. I WOULD RATHER WANT TO SEE A RECALL THAN A CLASS ACTION SUIT IN THE FUTURE.

Engine
Filed Oct 25, 2016147,000 milesCA

JUST WANT TO ADD MY CAR TO THE LIST OF FORD EXPEDITION 5.6L ENGINES THAT HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SPARK PLUG EJECTION ISSUE. THANKFULLY, THIS OCCURED WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE, SO IT DID NOT CAUSE ANY ACCIDENT OR INJURY. THIS IS OUR SON'S CAR AND WE INTENDED IT TO BE THE VEHICLE OUR 15 YEAR OLD USED AS WELL. HOWEVER, NOW THAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE SPARK PLUG PROBLEM, WE NO LONGER FEEL IT'S SAFE AND HOPE TO TRADE IT IN. IT'S EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTING AND DISHEARTENING TO KNOW THAT FORD HAS NOT TAKEN RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS ISSUE. OUR VEHICLE HAD ALL ORIGINAL FACTORY-INSTALLED SPARK PLUGS.

EngineFire
Filed Jun 15, 2016180,000 milesAR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A RESIDENTIAL DRIVEWAY, THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT ERUPTED INTO FLAMES WITHOUT WARNING AND A LOUD EXPLOSION SOUND EMITTED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY BURNED AND PART OF THE GARAGE WAS DAMAGED. THE POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS FILED REPORTS. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.

Engine
Filed May 23, 2016219,000 milesMN

IDLING AT A METERED RAMP I EXPERIENCED UNINTENDED ACCELERATION WHILE IN LINE WAITING FOR MY TURN AT THE METERED LIGHT.THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME ROLLED FORWARD AND I FOLLOWING SUIT. I DID NOT TOUCH THE ACCELERATOR BUT MERELY RELEASED MY FOOT FROM THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE TRUCK SURGED FORWARD UNEXPECTEDLY. I WAS ABLE TO APPLY THE BRAKES BEFORE IMPACTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. AS I STERNLY APPLIED THE BRAKES THE ENGINE SETTLED DOWN AND ALL SYSTEMS WORKED AS EXPECTED FOR THE REMAINDER OF MY COMMUTE. 5/23/2016 APPROX. 7:25 AM CDT. SUNNY AND CLEAR WEATHER APPROX 63 DEGREES F. "NORMAL" HUMIDITY. MY DAUGHTER IS THE PRIMARY DRIVER OF THIS VEHICLE AND WHEN ASKED IF THIS HAS HAPPENED TO HER THE ANSWER TO MY SURPRISE WAS YES.

Structure › BodyFire
Filed May 18, 2016CA

THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN EARLIER THAT DAY FOR ABOUT 2 TO 3 MILES AND THEN IT WAS PARKED INSIDE A PRIVATE MOBILE HOME PARK. AFTER 30 TO 45 MINUTES HAD PASSED, AN EXPLOSION WAS HEARD OUTSIDE THE MOBILE HOME PARK; THE VEHICLE EXPLODED AND WAS ON FIRE. THE EXPLOSION OCCURRED IN THE HOOD AND NOW IT IS A TOTAL LOSS. THIS OCCURRED ON APRIL 18TH, 2016. WE CONTACTED THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION AND THEY INFORMED US THAT A RECALL BACK IN 2005 WAS ISSUED. THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS NOT HELPED US OUT IN THIS ACCIDENT.

Electrical System › Ignition
Filed May 16, 201689,000 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE STARTING THE VEHICLE, AN ABNORMAL NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE ENGINE. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE STUTTERED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE PLUG AND IGNITION COIL WERE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED EIGHT MONTHS LATER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH THE SAME FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,000.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Mar 30, 2016160,000 milesGA

THE PASSENGER SIDE TURN SIGNAL WILL NOT WORK. I HAVE CHANGED FUSES, BULB( EVEN THOUGH BOTH WERE GOOD), AND HAVE CHECKED WIRING AND CAN NOT GET IT TO WORK. THIS IS VERY MUCH A SAFETY ISSUE AND I CAN'T IMAGINE THAT I AM THE ONLY ONE THIS HAS HAPPEN TO.

Engine
Filed Mar 30, 2016161,000 milesGA

I WAS DRIVING MY TRUCK, WHEN IT STARTED TO MAKE A CRAZY NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. I HAD TO PULL OVER AND POP THE HOOD AND I NOTICED THAT MY PLUG ON RIGHT SIDE HEAD, HAD BLEW OUT. I WAS ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND ENDED UP HAVING IT TOWED BECAUSE I DIDN'T WANT TO DRIVE IT IN THE CONDITION THAT IT WAS IN. I UNDERSTAND MOST WILL SAY THIS IS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE, HOWEVER, WHEN THIS HAPPENS IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC OR GOING DOWN THE INTERSTATE, IT COULD VERY WELL BE A BIG SAFETY ISSUE. THIS IS A VERY COMMON ISSUE THAT I FEEL FORD SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR.

Engine
Filed Jan 12, 2016112,500 milesMD

SPARK PLUG SHOT FROM ENGINE. HAS 112500 MILES ON SUV. WAS ICE AND SNOW ON BACK ROAD 30 MILES FROM HOME AT 14 DEGREES. SOUNDED LIKE ENGINE BLOWING UP. THEN LOAD PING SOUND IN MOTOR AND LACK OF POWER. ENGINE SHUT OFF ON IDLE. WAS STUCK. HAVE NOT SERVICED YET. FORD NEEDS TO FIX THIS ISSUE IMMEDIATELY. THIS 5.4 L TRITON SHOULD RUN FOR LONGER THAN 110,000 MILES. MY OLD DODGE WOULD NOT AND DID NOT HAVE ANY ISSUE AND IT HAD 130,000 MILES WHEN IT WAS WRECKED.

Seat Belts
Filed Dec 21, 2015123,000 milesAZ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELTS WOULD UNLATCH INDEPENDENTLY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC OR DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 123,000.

Fuel/Propulsion SystemFire
Filed Nov 30, 2015200,000 milesWA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL ODOR IN THE VEHICLE AND IT CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE WAS ABLE TO BE EXTINGUISHED BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED FROM THE SCENE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT BELIEVED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 06E056000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 200,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 19, 20154,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT UNLATCHED INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,000. UPDATED 1/21/16 *CN

Suspension
Filed Aug 17, 2015102,000 milesGA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS AND ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE, THE TIRES WOBBLED. IN ADDITION, THE FRONT AND REAR OF THE VEHICLE WERE UNSTABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT ALL FOUR RIMS WERE BENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO ANOTHER INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE BELTS AND BANDS WERE WORN FOR ALL FOUR TIRES AND THAT ALL FOUR TIRES COULD HAVE BLOWN OUT. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE WAS FRAYED TO THE POINT THAT IT COULD BLOW OUT AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. ALL FOUR TIRES WERE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jul 27, 2015145,000 milesAL

ON THE EVENING OF JULY 7TH, 2015 AT APPROXIMATELY 10:45 P.M. WE HEARD A COMMOTION OUTSIDE OUR APARTMENT COMPLEX AND DISCOVERED MY '02 EXPEDITION FULLY ON FIRE AND BEING DOUSED BY THE LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT. IT HAD JUST COME BACK FROM REPAIRS THAT AFTERNOON - TO THE PIGTAIL SWITCH AND RE-WIRING IN THE STEERING COLUMN DUE TO LOSS OF TURN SIGNALS AND RADIO. NOT ONLY WAS MY CAR DESTROYED, BUT THE CARS ON EITHER SIDE WERE DAMAGED, AS WELL AS DAMAGE TO THE APARTMENT COMPLEX. WE RETAINED AN ATTORNEY AND OUR INITIAL REPORT FROM THE FIRE DEPARTMENT STATED THE CAUSE AS "FAULTY WIRING." THE PRIVATE FIRE INVESTIGATOR WE RETAINED HAS ADVISED OUR ATTORNEY THAT THE FIRE IS DUE TO THE FLAWED CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM THAT HAS BEEN THE CAUSE OF HUNDREDS OF OTHER FIRES IN FORD VEHICLES. WE INTEND TO PURSUE THIS MATTER LEGALLY AND WOULD SINCERELY APPRECIATE ANY ASSISTANCE OR ADVISE YOUR OFFICE CAN PROVIDE. *TR

Seat Belts
Filed Apr 15, 2015160,000 milesTN

ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT HAS RANDOMLY UNBUCKLED ITSELF FOR NO APPARENT REASON. IF AN ACCIDENT WERE TO OCCUR THE SEAT BELT MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED A RELIABLE RESTRAINT WHICH COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. AFTER MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS FROM SEVERAL CONSUMERS THIS SAFETY DEVICE SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED. *TR

Power TrainFire
Filed Mar 2, 2015134,200 milesFL

CAR STARTED WITHOUT ANY PROBLEMS IN THE MORNING BUT IT DID NOT SHIFT ANY GEAR, CAR WAS TOWED TO THE MECHANIC AND TAKEN TO THE MECHANIC. WHILE THE MECHANIC WAS CHECKING THE VEHICLE THE CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE, THE ENGINE AND THE WHOLE FRONT OF VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Feb 23, 201575,000 milesWA

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR LEVER FAILED TO SHIFT OUT OF THE PARK POSITION. IN ADDITION, THE FOUR POWER WINDOWS AND DOOR LOCKS BECAME INOPERABLE. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE 5 AMP FUSES ON FORTY DIFFERENT OCCASIONS HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Feb 2, 2015218,975 milesTX

5 AMP FUSE POPPED. REPLACED WITH ANOTHER 5 AMP FUSE. SHIFT LOCK SOLENOID ATTACHED TO BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER CAUGHT FIRE. FIRE WAS CONTAINED AND CONTROLLED. MINIMAL DAMAGES. UNSURE OF VEHICLE DRIVABILITY. COULD HAVE HAPPENED DURING TRANSIT. CONDITION UNSAFE. *TR

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 31, 2014155,000 milesGA

SPARK PLUG POPPED OUT MY IGINITION COIL AND THE THREADING SECTION IS STRIPPED. WHEN I STARTED MY CAR AN EXPLORATION SOUND OCCURRED. ALSO, MY DRIVER SIDE HEAD LIGHT WON'T STAY LITE EVEN WITH REPLACEMENT LIGHT UNIT. ALSO CAR STALLS WHEN CAR IS FACING DOWN A HILL, EVEN WITH A FULL TANK OF GAS. *JS

Seat Belts
Filed Dec 28, 2014180,000 milesCA

WHILE DRIVING, THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEATBELTS IN THE FRONT WILL RANDOMLY UNLOCK. THIS CAR HAS NOT BEEN IN ANY ACCIDENTS. THE EQUIPMENT IS FACTORY ORIGINALS. THIS HAS BECOME A REAL SAFETY ISSUE AS WE NEVER KNOW WHEN THEY ARE GOING TO UNLOCK. *TR

Seat Belts
Filed Dec 24, 201435,000 milesTX

BE DRIVING ANY SPEED IT WORKS AND BOTH SEAT BELTS LOCKING LATCH WILL RELEASE WHILE DRIVING. IT HAS GOT WORSE THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WILL NOT LATCH ANY MORE. *TR

Engine
Filed Nov 14, 2014122,200 milesGA

1:00 AM, STARTED ENGINE TO GO HOME FROM WORK. LOUD BANG, FUMES, SOUND LIKE SOMETHING IS CAUGHT IN THE FAN. INVESTIGATION REVEALED SPARK PLUG BLOWN OUT OF ENGINE, HANGING BY THE LEAD. MADE IT HOME DRIVING AT 30 MPH. IT APPEARS FORD HAS KNOWN ABOUT THIS FOR SOME TIME. TO SAY I AM DISAPPOINTED IN THEM IS THE UNDERSTATEMENT OF THE YEAR. VEHICLE HAS BEEN METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED. *TR

Seat Belts
Filed Jul 29, 2014100,000 milesCA

BOTH DRIVERS SIDE AND PASSENGER LATCHES UNBUCKLE AT RANDOM TIMES. DESPITE SECURE ENTRY CONFIRMED. *JS

Engine
Filed Jul 14, 2014129,500 milesID

#3 COIL DAMAGED, SPARK PLUG BLEW OUT. HAD TO HAVE A NEW COIL, NEW SPARK PLUG, AND RETHREAD #3 HOLE. VERY UPSETTING THAT FORD KNOWS OF THIS ISSUES AND REFUSES TO DO A RECALL AND PAY FOR THE REPAIRS! *TR

Service BrakesFire
Filed Jun 16, 2014100,000 milesVA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SMOKE EMITTED FROM THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO REPLACED THE ENGINE AND THE TIMING BELT. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND TO DECELERATION ATTEMPTS AND THAT IT CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE IT WAS PARKED AND UNOCCUPIED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.

Seat Belts
Filed May 28, 2014151,919 milesAZ

DRIVER'S SEAT BELT RANDOMLY UNLATCHES WHILE DRIVING DESPITE HAVING BEEN PROPERLY LATCHED TO START. *TR

Suspension
Filed Feb 23, 201485,000 milesPA

DURING INSPECTION IT WAS NOTICED THAT THE UPPER AND LOWER REAR CONTROL ARMS WERE RUSTED THROUGH AND UNSAFE. HAD THEM REPLACED INCLUDING THE RUSTED THROUGH SHOCKS. HOOD AND ROOF PAINT SHOWS SERIOUS PAINT PEELING AND BUBBLING. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Dec 2, 2013194,793 milesLA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE FROM A TRAFFIC STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE OF THE REPAIRS SPECIFIC NECESSARY BUT STATED THAT THERE WAS A FAILURE WITH THE FUSE BOX. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 194,793.

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 19, 2013117,000 milesMD

BRAKE LINE RUPTURED IN REAR OF VEHICLE WHEN PULLING INTO SERVICE STATION HAULING MY TRAVEL TRAILER. WAS TOLD THE LINE WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH AND THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM ON THESE MODEL YEAR VEHICLES. I FIND TOTALLY CRAZY TO FIND BRAKE LINES RUSTING ON A VEHICLE OF THIS AGE. I WAS ALSO TOLD THE REAR CONTROL ARMS NEED TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE OF THE RUST. I KNOW THIS WAS AN ISSUE ON THE WINDSTARS AND IT WAS RECALLED FORD NEED TO TAKE CARE OF THIS. THANK GOD IT HAPPENED AT THE STATION AND NOT HAULING MY KIDS TO THE CAMPGROUND. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED DUE TO THE FACT THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF THESE VEHICLES STILL ON THE ROADS.I KNOW IF I CALL FORD THEY WILL TELL ME ITS NOT IN WARRANTY THAT'S WHY I CONTACTED YOU. THEY COVER AIRBAGS AND SEATBELTS FOR LIFE THEY SHOULD COVER BRAKE LINES. *TR

Suspension
Filed Jun 27, 2013111,086 milesIN

HAD ROUTINE SERVICE ON MY 2002 EXPEDITION AT DEALERSHIP,WAS TOLD I NEEDED TO REPLAC UPPER AND LOWER TRAILING ARM ALSO TRACK ARM BECAUSE OF SEVERE CORROSION.

Seat Belts
Filed Jun 24, 2013107,000 milesMN

THE SEAT BELT RANDOMLY COMES UNFASTENED. AT FIRST I THOUGHT I WASN'T BUCKLING IT PROPERLY BUT HAVE SINCE BEGUN YANKING ON IT TO MAKE SURE IT WAS BUCKLED EACH TIME I DRIVE IT. IT JUST RELEASES ON ITS OWN, WHETHER I AM GOING 10-20 MILES PER HOUR OR FREEWAY SPEED. IT IS HAPPENING MORE OFTEN, SOMETIMES SEVERAL TIMES EACH TRIP. *TR

Seat Belts
Filed Feb 28, 2013183,000 milesTN

WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD MY WIFES SEATBELT BECAME UNBUCKLED. THEN, ON 2/27/2013 WHEN I PUT MY VEHICLE INTO REVERSE, MY SEATBELT CAME UNBUCKLED. FOR BOTH SEATS TO BECOME UNBUCKLED WITH NO EXTERNAL INFLUENCE CONVINCES ME WE ARE NOT SAFE IN OUR 2002 FORD EXPEDITION. *TR

Power TrainFire
Filed Jan 21, 2013160,000 milesIL

ON DECEMBER 21ST 2012 I LEFT TO DROP MY DAUGHTER AT DAYCARE... WE GOT INTO THE VEHICLE AND I FOUND I WAS UNABLE TO GET MY VEHICLE OUT OF "PARK" AND HAD TO PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND START IT (ALSO FOUND THAT THE WINDOWS AND WIPERS WEREN'T OPERATING AT ALL EITHER) ... MY DAUGHTER STATED "MOMMY, I SMELL SOMETHING BURNING" AND MY ASSUMPTION WAS THE FUSE HAD BLOWN... I DROVE A FEW BLOCKS AND DROPPED HER OFF AND THEN STOPPED A BLOCK AWAY AT THE LOCAL CONVENIENT STORE AND UPON EXITING THE STORE CAME OUT AND FOUND FLAMES POURING OUT OF MY DRIVER SIDE WHEEL/ HOOD AREA. THE 7-11 EMPLOYEE HAD A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND WAS ABLE TO PUT OUT THE FIRE AND I WAS INFORMED AND SHOWN BY THE CARY FIRE DEPARTMENT WHERE THE FIRE HAD STARTED AND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THAT PART IN WHICH I'M THE FOURTH OWNER OF. IT TOOK THREE WEEKS TO GET A REPLY FROM THEIR GENERAL COUNSEL DEPARTMENT AND IN MY EYES THIS NEEDS TO BE EXPEDITED AS I'M PAYING FOR A RENTAL CAR THAT I CAN'T AFFORD... I'M NOT IMPRESSED BY LACK OF URGENCY AS I HAVE NO VEHICLE TO GET TO AND FROM WORK WHICH IS HOW I PROVIDE FOR ME AND MY CHILD. *TR

Power Train
Filed Dec 3, 201268,000 milesNJ

REAR DIFFERENTIAL CONTROL LINKS RUSTED THRU AND BROKE. THIS ALLOWED THE DIFFERENTIAL TO MOVE TOWARD THE REAR. WHEN IT MOVED FAR ENOUGH THE REAR DRIVE SHAFT FELL OUT OF THE TRANSFER CASE AND BROKE OFF AT THE REAR YOKE. CONSIDERING THE NUMBER OF EXPEDITIONS AND NAVIGATORS ON THE ROAD...SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET KILLED. *TR UPDATED 6/13/13 *CN

Engine
Filed Nov 9, 2012120,000 milesIL

WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH I HEARD A LOUD POP AND THEN WHAT SOUNDED LIKE A BELT SMACKING AROUND THE ENGINE. I OPENED THE HOOD AND SAW THE BELT WAS OK. WENT TO DEALER AND HAD TO GET LOANER TO GET HOME. SPARK PLUG HAD POPPED OUT. *TR

Complaints 1-50 of 340, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 1999
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20270200Routine
202611200Routine
202538610Routine
202479710Routine
202365840Routine
20221171200Routine
20212421240Above average
20204281870Above average
20195261130Above average
20183831420Above average
2017358470Above average
2016217380Above average
2015164360Routine
201472020Routine
201392030Routine
2012118320Routine
201171010Routine
201058010Routine
200928101Fatalities reported
2008146422Fatalities reported
2007215250Above average
2006299663Fatalities reported
2005315560Above average
20042974151Fatalities reported
20036156363Fatalities reported
2002 — this page3404692Fatalities reported
200157810955Fatalities reported
2000890111992Fatalities reported
19999469775Fatalities reported
19988367731Fatalities reported
199785397411Fatalities reported
19963010Routine
19951000Routine
19944000Routine
19931000Routine
19911000Routine

Compare every Expedition year →

2002 Ford Expedition: questions buyers ask

Is the 2002 Ford Expedition a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Expedition years to avoid: an unusual share of its 340 complaints describe fires, crashes or deaths for a car of its age. The most common complaint is about the engine (32%).

What is the most common problem with the 2002 Ford Expedition?

The engine: 110 of the 340 complaints (32%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses power (7%), leaks oil or fluid (5%) and smokes or smells of burning (5%). The typical report comes at 105,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2002 Ford Expedition have?

4 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Aug 1, 2006. The largest, 05V388000, covered 4,500,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2002 Ford Expedition problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 84,000 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 105,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2002 Ford Expedition?

Yes, 2 times. The latest, DP05005 ("SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD"), was opened Sep 22, 2005 and closed Jan 4, 2006.

Are there service bulletins for the 2002 Ford Expedition?

The manufacturer filed 102 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (23), the electrical system (13) and the transmission (12). They include a service campaign, 02M01, filed Jun 1, 2004. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

2 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Aug 1, 2006. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.