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2003
Ford Expedition

Starts at:
$31,820
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4.6L XLT Value
    Starts at
    $31,820
    14 City / 19 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4.6L XLT Popular
    Starts at
    $33,770
    14 City / 19 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 5.4L XLT Popular
    Starts at
    $34,285
    13 City / 18 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4.6L XLT Value 4WD
    Starts at
    $34,390
    14 City / 18 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4.6L XLT Premium
    Starts at
    $36,070
    14 City / 19 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4.6L XLT Popular 4WD
    Starts at
    $36,525
    14 City / 18 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 5.4L XLT Premium
    Starts at
    $36,585
    13 City / 17 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 5.4L XLT Popular 4WD
    Starts at
    $37,040
    13 City / 17 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4.6L Eddie Bauer
    Starts at
    $37,895
    14 City / 19 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 5.4L XLT FX4 Off-Road 4WD
    Starts at
    $38,160
    13 City / 17 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 5.4L Eddie Bauer
    Starts at
    $38,410
    13 City / 18 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4.6L XLT Premium 4WD
    Starts at
    $38,825
    14 City / 18 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 5.4L XLT Premium 4WD
    Starts at
    $39,340
    13 City / 17 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 5.4L Eddie Bauer 4WD
    Starts at
    $41,560
    13 City / 17 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition 2003 Ford Expedition

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Expert 2003 Ford Expedition review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By
Full article
our expert's take

For those who despise massive sport utility vehicles, the Ford Expedition is an obvious target of wrath.

Blamed for everything from wasting natural resources to blocking the sun, the 5,400-pound Expedition and its ilk are linked to supporting terrorists in oil-producing countries and, in one evangelical twist, tarred as vehicles that Jesus would refuse to drive.

But try as I might, I found it difficult to hate the Expedition, despite its gas-guzzling ways. All new for 2003, the Expedition sports a sleek new exterior, a new interior with some interesting power features and a new chassis complete with independent rear suspension.

The independent suspension seems like a weird addition to a full-size truck, which up until now always came with a beefy solid rear axle. But independent rear suspension creates at least two major improvements over the former Expedition:

-A third row of seats with enough room for actual humans and that fold nicely into the floor.

-A smooth, refined ride more like a car than a truck.

The only downside was a tendency for the Expedition to wallow at the rear in sharp turning maneuvers.

Despite its bulk, the Expedition is easy to drive like a car. At least until you try to squeeze through traffic or tuck into a tight parking spot. The new rack-and-pinion steering is responsive, and the massive brakes are very effective.

Behind the wheel, it’s easy to fathom the raging popularity of these heavyweights. Owners of full-size SUVS are quick to point out the high driving position with its commanding view of the road, the overall feeling of security from accidents or road hazards, plus the exceptional roominess for people and belongings.

In the two-wheel-drive XLT model tested here, eight people can be transported in reasonable comfort. Or with the third seat folded into the floor and the second row folded forward, there’s a spacious cargo bed that’s big enough for a 4- by 8-foot sheet of plywood.

The XLT is the lower rung of two Expedition models, under the Eddie Bauer edition. The XLT model comes well-equipped with power and convenience features, running boards, fog lamps, premium audio and that folding rear seat.

Standard on Eddie Bauer and optional on the XLT is a power folding rear seat that folds into the floor with the touch of a button.

The standard engine on the XLT is a 232-horsepower 4.6-liter, with a 5.4-liter, 260-horsepower engine optional on the XLT and standard on the Eddie Bauer. The test truck came with the 5.4, and it proved to be smooth and strong, with loads of low-end torque and a towing capacity of 8,900 pounds.

Fuel economy is a contradiction in terms, with the Expedition averaging around 13 miles per gallon during my week of driving, according to the onboard computer.

The brakes come standard with antilock and include Brake Assist, an electronic system that senses the onset of a panic stop and applies full braking force.

The sophisticated exterior styling of the new Explorer is nicely squared-off yet with a muscular appearance. Ford kept the signature grille intact, making the 2003 Expedition easily recognizable.

The interior is pleasantly comfortable but fairly bland. The dashboard could use some of the high-style design seen in the Navigator.

The test Expedition came well equipped at $35,800 and included just a few optional extras. A side-airbag canopy with rollover sensor was $580; a reverse radar-sensing system was $255, and shipping was $740. On the test truck, the 5.4 engine was a no-cost option, and the total came to $37,375.

Nicely updated, the Expedition should continue as a top seller for Ford, barring a large-scale anti-SUV backlash.

Ford Expedition XLT

Vehicle type: Eight passenger, four-door sport utility vehicle, rear-wheel drive.

Base price: $35,800.

Price as tested: $37,375.

Engine: 5.4-liter V-8, 260 horsepower at 4,500 rpm, 350 pounds-feet torque at 2,500 rpm.

Transmission: Four-speed automatic.

Wheelbase: 119 inches.

Curb weight: 5,416 pounds.

Towing capacity: 8,900 pounds.

EPA mileage: 14 city, 19 highway.

Highs:

Improved ride, handling.

Independent rear suspension.

Attractive styling.

Lows:

Wallowing in turns.

Bland interior.

Big SUV woes.

2003 Ford Expedition review: Our expert's take
By

For those who despise massive sport utility vehicles, the Ford Expedition is an obvious target of wrath.

Blamed for everything from wasting natural resources to blocking the sun, the 5,400-pound Expedition and its ilk are linked to supporting terrorists in oil-producing countries and, in one evangelical twist, tarred as vehicles that Jesus would refuse to drive.

But try as I might, I found it difficult to hate the Expedition, despite its gas-guzzling ways. All new for 2003, the Expedition sports a sleek new exterior, a new interior with some interesting power features and a new chassis complete with independent rear suspension.

The independent suspension seems like a weird addition to a full-size truck, which up until now always came with a beefy solid rear axle. But independent rear suspension creates at least two major improvements over the former Expedition:

-A third row of seats with enough room for actual humans and that fold nicely into the floor.

-A smooth, refined ride more like a car than a truck.

The only downside was a tendency for the Expedition to wallow at the rear in sharp turning maneuvers.

Despite its bulk, the Expedition is easy to drive like a car. At least until you try to squeeze through traffic or tuck into a tight parking spot. The new rack-and-pinion steering is responsive, and the massive brakes are very effective.

Behind the wheel, it’s easy to fathom the raging popularity of these heavyweights. Owners of full-size SUVS are quick to point out the high driving position with its commanding view of the road, the overall feeling of security from accidents or road hazards, plus the exceptional roominess for people and belongings.

In the two-wheel-drive XLT model tested here, eight people can be transported in reasonable comfort. Or with the third seat folded into the floor and the second row folded forward, there’s a spacious cargo bed that’s big enough for a 4- by 8-foot sheet of plywood.

The XLT is the lower rung of two Expedition models, under the Eddie Bauer edition. The XLT model comes well-equipped with power and convenience features, running boards, fog lamps, premium audio and that folding rear seat.

Standard on Eddie Bauer and optional on the XLT is a power folding rear seat that folds into the floor with the touch of a button.

The standard engine on the XLT is a 232-horsepower 4.6-liter, with a 5.4-liter, 260-horsepower engine optional on the XLT and standard on the Eddie Bauer. The test truck came with the 5.4, and it proved to be smooth and strong, with loads of low-end torque and a towing capacity of 8,900 pounds.

Fuel economy is a contradiction in terms, with the Expedition averaging around 13 miles per gallon during my week of driving, according to the onboard computer.

The brakes come standard with antilock and include Brake Assist, an electronic system that senses the onset of a panic stop and applies full braking force.

The sophisticated exterior styling of the new Explorer is nicely squared-off yet with a muscular appearance. Ford kept the signature grille intact, making the 2003 Expedition easily recognizable.

The interior is pleasantly comfortable but fairly bland. The dashboard could use some of the high-style design seen in the Navigator.

The test Expedition came well equipped at $35,800 and included just a few optional extras. A side-airbag canopy with rollover sensor was $580; a reverse radar-sensing system was $255, and shipping was $740. On the test truck, the 5.4 engine was a no-cost option, and the total came to $37,375.

Nicely updated, the Expedition should continue as a top seller for Ford, barring a large-scale anti-SUV backlash.

Ford Expedition XLT

Vehicle type: Eight passenger, four-door sport utility vehicle, rear-wheel drive.

Base price: $35,800.

Price as tested: $37,375.

Engine: 5.4-liter V-8, 260 horsepower at 4,500 rpm, 350 pounds-feet torque at 2,500 rpm.

Transmission: Four-speed automatic.

Wheelbase: 119 inches.

Curb weight: 5,416 pounds.

Towing capacity: 8,900 pounds.

EPA mileage: 14 city, 19 highway.

Highs:

Improved ride, handling.

Independent rear suspension.

Attractive styling.

Lows:

Wallowing in turns.

Bland interior.

Big SUV woes.

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years
Powertrain
3 years / 36,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Fords and many non-Ford vehicles up to 10 years old with less than 150,000 miles
Basic
90-Day / 4,000-Mile (whichever comes first) Comprehensive Limited Warranty
Dealer certification
139-point inspection

Compare similar vehicles

Select cars to compare for more detailed info.
  • 2003
    4.5
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    $31,820
    14 City / 19 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2000
    5.0
    Lincoln Navigator
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    12 City / 17 Hwy
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  • 2001
    4.5
    Ford Expedition
    Starts at
    $30,195
    16 City / 21 Hwy
    MPG
    8
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
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  • 2008
    4.5
    Ford Expedition EL
    Starts at
    $34,870
    12 City / 18 Hwy
    MPG
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    Rear-wheel drive
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Consumer reviews

4.5 / 5
Based on 67 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.7
Interior 4.5
Performance 4.3
Value 4.3
Exterior 4.5
Reliability 4.5

Most recent

  • The Ford Expedition was the best vehicle I've ever owned

    The Ford Expedition was the best vehicle I've ever owned so far. I love taking road trips and this SUV was stress free. I was even surprised at the decent gas mileage on these road trips (20 plus). As long as you maintain it, it will take care of you. Thankfully, I did not have to put alot of money into repairs but I did maintain it faithfully. Mine had the 4.6 liter engine and it was sufficient for my needs. That truck lasted me 175k plus before I traded it in to help family secure a vehicle.
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I ouw my truck with 40,000 miles.

    I ouw my truck with 40,000 miles. Now it had 255,000. And still run great. Never must rebuild engine or transmition. Still run smooth and strong. It take me anywhere. Im happy with it. Only im keep mantiance at cuarrent, oil changes, spark plugs, coils, fuel filtle etc. Good truck!
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • 300,000+ miles on my Expy

    I have 300,000+ miles on my 4.6L expedition. I have not had the motor rebuilt. I had it upgraded. New coil packs, new stainless steel exhaust, and a programmer for the onboard computer. It will go 120 mph now. The computer programmer has the programs in it. It will program the motor and transmission. The transmission has more substantial shift points. It has a high mpg and towing modes for better mpg while towing. I bought this Expy used with 45,000 miles on it. The tuner made 12 dyno pulls to get the tune right. I had a "hot rod" tune and a "highway" tune with 24-25 mpg. This was all done through the computer.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Pretty nice

    Honestly this car has done me just fine. It gets me literally anywhere I could want whether it be through a city or up a mountain! I live in Montana so this thing has handled all of the gravel roads, potholes, and dirt trails and camping spots that I’ve taken it to (and trust me I’ve taken this thing some places that a car should never be able to go). The only thing I’ve noticed, which might be specific towards my car, is this: I have had to replace every single coil pact on that car SEVERAL times within the past couple of years, and so did the previous owner according to what they’ve told me about it. It gets pretty spendy. And it’s always back to back when it happens, one goes out and as soon as I repair it, another one, and then another one, so on and so forth until once again I’ve replaced all of them and I’m another 600 in the whole. Besides this, the car gets the job done.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • My 2003 Ford expedition

    I bought my 2003 expedition XLT used with 34000 miles. It was in excellent condition and so far one of the best cars I owned. So smooth and roomy. It has the 5.4 v-8. Almost every option except leather seats and sunroof. But I love it. Plenty of power and only 43000iles so far in 20 years.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 4.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • 2003 Expedition review. June, 5 2023, 6:00 a.m PST

    This car has been okay for me. For the most part it has been reliable except for a few bumps in the road. But I would recommend this car two friends it's a smart purchase.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 3.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Ford expiration truck xlt V8 4:6 litters 2003 repo

    I get really has miles 27miles to a gallon of gas so for a V8 that's good I love my Ford it's safer and you can see everything around you and your family are doing to safe and comfortable in the truck as well great family truck to have thanks wendi ellis
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    8 people out of 9 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • most reliable car i ve owned

    leg room and very spacious fits alot of people big and beautiful fast and strong reliable and smooth i love the seats their powered great for hulling
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    12 people out of 12 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • As reliable as my 2000 yukon

    I usually go for large to XL SUV because i have a lot of outdoor hobbies that require space, towing, and offroading capabilities. Bought the car used and had to fix a U-joint which is common for large trucks and SUV s, but no other issues since I've had it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Off-roading
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    7 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Very Reliable 2003 4x4 5.4 leather seats.

    This Expedition now has 233,000 miles on it. I have replaced 1 coil pack. replaced spark plugs one time. Never serviced the transmission. Replaced all the belts idlers and hoses. Just replaced the 4x4 actuator for the vacuum and am going to be replacing the right front IWE and half shaft. DIYer so I do all work myself. Run Mobile one oil for the last 100,000 because if mobile 1 is good enough for my Mercedes it has to be for my Expedition. It has been driven to Florida multiple times Niagra Falls multiple times and all over the east coast NY, NH, Conn., Off road in NC where I live on coast. Driven in Hurricanes through water. Driven in mud, snow, and water.This thing is incredible. Planning to drive it as long as possible.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • PERFECT FOR A FAMILY OR A SINGLE PERSON

    LUXURY ,COMFORT AND STYLE ALL IN ONE IN THIS SUV, LOVE THE MOON ROOF AND THE 3RD ROW POWER FOLDING SEATS. GAS MILEAGE IS GREAT
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I may keep this car forever, 160000 miles.

    I love my 2003 Expedition, only complaint is mileage, Safer because of it is really a solid truck. Very comfortable seats all around. 4 wheel drive is great for hills, steep slick driveways. New Expeditions twice the price, nice styling not much better mileage.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2003 Ford Expedition?

The 2003 Ford Expedition is available in 5 trim levels:

  • Eddie Bauer (3 styles)
  • XLT FX4 Off-Road (1 style)
  • XLT Popular (4 styles)
  • XLT Premium (4 styles)
  • XLT Value (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2003 Ford Expedition?

The 2003 Ford Expedition offers up to 14 MPG in city driving and 19 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2003 Ford Expedition?

The 2003 Ford Expedition compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2003 Ford Expedition reliable?

The 2003 Ford Expedition has an average reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2003 Ford Expedition owners.

Is the 2003 Ford Expedition a good SUV?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2003 Ford Expedition. 95.5% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.5 / 5
Based on 67 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.7
  • Interior: 4.5
  • Performance: 4.3
  • Value: 4.3
  • Exterior: 4.5
  • Reliability: 4.5

Ford Expedition history

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