How to Troubleshoot a Ford Expedition
by Alibaster SmithThe Expedition is a full-sized SUV built by Ford Motor Company. It was introduced in 1997 to replace the Ford Bronco. Unfortunately, the Expedition is not without its problems. When you do need to troubleshoot the Expedition, fortunately, you do not need to be a rocket scientist. When you discover a problem, you will want to figure out first what is causing it. Start with the simplest solutions, and work your way up to more complex fixes. Normally, the simplest reason and fix is the one that needs to be done. Then, work your way up to the more complex solutions, if necessary.
Step 1
Listen for a whining sound coming from the engine area. This is most likely the power steering pump. If the belt is in good shape, and you hear a whining sound when you turn the steering wheel lock to lock, then it is likely the famous Ford power steering pump problem. The design of the pump causes it to whine when turning the steering wheel. The power steering may work fine, but the problem is with the pulley on the pump. This needs to be checked and replaced with a new pulley.
Step 2
Check to see if the engine stalls or misses through the driving speed range. If this is happening to your Ford Expedition, the problem is likely a clogged fuel filter. However, a more serious problem could be uneven compression in the cylinders. This happens primarily as the Expedition ages. Mileage, not years, will measure how old the SUV is. Once this happens, you will need to take it to a mechanic to see if you will need to have new piston rings installed.
Step 3
Listen for excessive noise when starting the engine. Worn or broken teeth on the Expedition's flywheel most commonly cause this. However, the simpler solution is to check the starter motor's mounting bolts as this could cause it to shake or rattle during starts.
Step 4
Listen for clicking noises when turning around corners. This is usually caused by the CV joint's boot ripping. By the time you can hear the clicking sound, the joint is beyond the repair abilities of a home mechanic. It needs to be professionally machined and rebuilt. Due to the high angle of the half-shaft on the Expedition, you may notice the CV joints on the half-shaft clicking first.
Step 5
Listen for noise while you are in neutral with the engine running. A damaged input gear bearing causes this. You will need to have this serviced by a qualified mechanic.
References
- Ford F150, F250, Expedition, Lincoln Navigator Repair Manual 1997-2003; Eric Michael Mihalyi, ASE, SAE, STS, Jay Storer; 2007.
Writer Bio
I am a Registered Financial Consultant with 6 years experience in the financial services industry. I am trained in the financial planning process, with an emphasis in life insurance and annuity contracts. I have written for Demand Studios since 2009.
