Help with 2012 Expedition EL Limited

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jackson1313

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First time poster here...I'm looking at buying a one owner 2012 Expedition El Limited 4x4 with 100K on it. I've read a lot on line about cam phaser issues with these engines up to 2010 but haven't read much about this issues with the 2012 models. I think most of this is due to Ford replacing the 5.4 in the F150 in 2011 but wanted to check on here to be sure. Was this problem ever fixed or is a 2012 just as likely to have issues as any other 3V 5.4? I appreciate any help.
 

1955moose

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Apparently 2011 on up is the new and improved 5.4 engine . Maybe one of the others can comment on that fact or fiction.

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JExpedition07

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First time poster here...I'm looking at buying a one owner 2012 Expedition El Limited 4x4 with 100K on it. I've read a lot on line about cam phaser issues with these engines up to 2010 but haven't read much about this issues with the 2012 models. I think most of this is due to Ford replacing the 5.4 in the F150 in 2011 but wanted to check on here to be sure. Was this problem ever fixed or is a 2012 just as likely to have issues as any other 3V 5.4? I appreciate any help.

There were various revisions to the 5.4 like any engine over the years. Early engines had the most issues, but when maintained many more will run trouble free. Overall the engine is built strong, the timing sets on many ford engines are prone to problems, esp with lack of maintenance. EcoBoosts are also prone to timing chain stretch and camphaser issues as seen over on the F-150 forum. All of them are good engines but maintenance is key. 2012 is a good year.
 
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jackson1313

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I appreciate the replies guys. I love this suv but I have read so many horror stories that I’ve gotten a little nervous to pull the trigger. I know any car with 100k on it is possible to break down but I want to at least have an idea what I’d be getting into. Thanks again.
 

ManUpOrShutUp

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I appreciate the replies guys. I love this suv but I have read so many horror stories that I’ve gotten a little nervous to pull the trigger. I know any car with 100k on it is possible to break down but I want to at least have an idea what I’d be getting into. Thanks again.

Compare it the reliability ratings on its only direct competitor (the Suburban) and perhaps you'll feel better. Or up the budget, step down a size, and buy a Sequoia. :D
 

Adieu

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I appreciate the replies guys. I love this suv but I have read so many horror stories that I’ve gotten a little nervous to pull the trigger. I know any car with 100k on it is possible to break down but I want to at least have an idea what I’d be getting into. Thanks again.

There are no "real" horror stories about the 3rd gen 5.4.... except the clicking aircon, but that's a $10 fix lol

And, anyway, with new Ford and Motorcraft parts consistantly cheap, generic parts plentiful, and whole 3rd gen SSV trucks in running condition starting at like 3 grand.... even if you somehow manage to MASSACRE it, your total cost of replacing the whole damn powerplant will be comparable to or lower vs. swapping out a couple tny sensors or electronic whatevers on a Merc or Bimmer

Also, 100k is virgin miles for a triton 5.4



PS i got a bimmer, my dad has a merc. Weird shit breaks all the time on those, $$$$... expedition and navigator, otoh, they're relible cheap to maintain and highly DIYable.
 

Muddy Bean

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So I drive a ton. This past year I drove nearly 50,000 miles. I go all over the United States. With this much seat time I get a non scientific picture of what’s still on the road. Even before I owned an Expedition, I used to marvel at how many of them are still on the road. Old, decrepit ones. And now that I own one, I of course, see way more of them. There’s a TON of old old expeditions still out there driving around. That’s just a good sign to me.


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jackson1313

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That's all good information! Thanks again everyone for the help! This is making my decision easier.
 
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