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1998 Ford Expedition Recalls, Problems & Maintenance

The 1998 Ford Expedition has no open NHTSA recalls. Owners report 7 recurring issue clusters, led by “Spark plug ejection from cylinder head.” Ford uses the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor (IOLM) to determine when oil changes are due based on actual driving load — not just mileage. Ford's published cap is 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. The schedule below reflects Ford's Normal service intervals; F-Series trucks and Super Duty have additional towing-specific items.

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No open recalls on file. NHTSA lists no unrepaired safety recalls for this year, make and model. A recall can be issued at any time, and a specific car can still have one open — check yours by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Known issues & problems for this vehicle

What drivers and federal regulators have officially reported about the 1998 Ford Expedition.

Reported to NHTSA

Spark plug ejection from cylinder head

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

52 NHTSA complaints · 2005-11 → 2018-12

“I HAVE A FORD 1998 EXPEDITION, EDDIE BAUER EDITION. IT HAS A 5.4 LITER ENGINE WITH ALUMINUM HEADS. THREE TIMES I'VE HAD A HELICOIL BLOWN OUT LEAVING ME STRANDED. NOW A SPARK PLUG HAS BLOWN OUT BREAKING TWO COILS. FORD HAS MADE THIS VEHICLE FOR YEARS WITH THIS ENGINE”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10915249
“DRIVING OUR 1998 FORD EXPEDITION WITH A TRITON 5.4L V-8 HOME FROM A WEEKEND CAMPING TRIP, THE ENGINE BLEW A SPARK PLUG. WE WERE ON A VERY BUSY 5 LANE HIGHWAY WITH OUR THREE CHILDREN UNDER 6 YEARS OLD. WE SPENT NEARLY TWO HOURS ON THE SIDE OF THE INTERSTATE WAITING FOR A TOW TRUCK”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10287169
“WHILE DRIVING ON THE NORTHBOUND 405 IN LA, MY 1998 EXPEDITION SHOT A SPARK PLUG FROM THE ALUMINUM HEAD. I WAS TRAPPED IN 70MPH TRAFFIC IN THE DARK WAITING A TOW TRUCK”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10143680

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Rear suspension trailing arm corrosion

SUSPENSION

16 NHTSA complaints · 2007-01 → 2017-09

“AS I WAS EXAMINING THE REAR BRAKE PADS ON MY TRUCK, I NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A HOLE IN THE RIGHT REAR LOWER CONTROL ARM. FURTHER EXAMINATION SHOWED THAT THE PROTECTIVE COATING ON THE CONTROL ARM HAD NOT ONLY FAILED BUT WAS HOLDING MOISTURE AND SALT AGAINST THE METAL OF THE”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10507034
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A COMPLETE STOP, THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED A LOUD BANG. THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY COLLAPSED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10438640
“ABOUT 3-4 YEARS AGO, THE LEFT STABILIZER LINK BROKE. I NOTICED A LOUD THUMP WHEN HITTING BUMPS AFTER PULLING OFF THE INTERSTATE. 2 WEEKS AGO, WE HAD A LOUD THUMP UNDER THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE, THIS TIME THE RIGHT STABILIZER LINK WAS BROKE”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10177541

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Transmission gear position indicator failure

POWER TRAIN

17 NHTSA complaints · 2005-10 → 2014-11

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE SHIFT LEVER WAS PLACED INTO THE PARK POSITION, THE VEHICLE WOULD REVERSE AND FAILED TO MOVE BACK INTO THE PARK POSITION. THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10654339
“TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT CONTROL WOULD MALFUNCTION EVERY TIME HE USED THE VEHICLE AND ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT INTO PARK CORRECTLY. IF THE VEHICLE DID SHIFT INTO PARK, IT WOULD ROLL BACKWARD”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10255813
“THE GEAR MARKER FOR MY 98 EXPEDITION TRANSMISSION BEGAN TO MARK INCORRECTLY. THE GEAR SHIFT CHANGER SHOWS THATS ITS IN PARK, WHEN ITS ACTUALLY IN REVERSE. IT ALSO SHOWS THAT ITS IN NEUTRUAL WHEN ITS ACTUALLY STILL IN DRIVE”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10174804

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Windshield leak into fuse box and GEM module

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

12 NHTSA complaints · 2007-03 → 2014-09

“I HAVE A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION EB MODEL. I JUST HAD TO TAKE IT INTO THE DEALER BECAUSE THE WINDSHIELD IS NOT SEALED PROPERLY AND THE GEM MODULE HAS BEEN GETTING WET AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED ALONG WITH THE FUSE BOX”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10296394
“MY 1998 FORD EXPEDITION XLT HAS THE LEAKING WINDSHIELD PROBLEM, WHICH HAS LED TO MISDIAGNOSIS BY THE DEALER AND BY INDEPENDENT MECHANICS. THE LIGHTS, FANS, AND SWITCHES RANDOMLY TURN ON AND OFF, THE POWER WINDOWS WORK INTERMITTENTLY, THE BLOWER FAN AND RADIO STAYS ON, AND THE”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10210025
“1998 FORD EXPEDITION INTERIOR LIGHTS STAYING ON, DOOR AJAR LIGHT STAYING ON, RADIO TURNING ON AND OFF BY ITSELF, TRAILER LIGHTS NOT WORKING, DASH LIGHTS FLASHING OFF AND ON. I FOUND OUT THERE ARE A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH THESE CARS HAVING LEAKING WINDSHIELDS ALLOWING WATER TO”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10183908

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Brake line corrosion and failure

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

9 NHTSA complaints · 2005-11 → 2016-05

“WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AT APPROX 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME STOPPED HARD. I IMMEDIATELY STEPPED HARD ON MY BRAKES. THE BRAKES INITIALLY APPLIED AND THEN FAILED. I SWERVED INTO A PARKING LOT AND APPLIED MY BRAKES AGAIN WITH NO SUCCESS. MY BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10865581
“THIS COMPLAINT INVOLVES THE COMPLETE FAILURE OF ALL BRAKE LINES DUE TO RUST ON MY 1998 FORD EXPEDITION. ALL LINES HAVE COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH FROM THE OUTSIDE IN ONLY 12 YEARS. THE FIRST LINE (FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE ABS CONTROL) FAILED ABOUT A WEEK AGO, RESULTING IN”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10325640
“THE STEEL BRAKE LINES ARE RUSTED AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID,BRAKE LINE FAILURE”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10457717

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Wheel lug nut and stud separation

WHEELS

5 NHTSA complaints · 2008-06 → 2018-09

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD EXPEDITION EQUIPPED WITH GOODYEAR WRANGLER TRAILMARK TIRES, SIZE: P265/65/R18 (NA). THE CONTACT PURCHASED THE BRAND NEW TIRES FROM WALMART. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY, THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. A POLICE”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11129172
“ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS, THE LUG BOLTS HAVE BROKEN OFF OF THE VEHICLE WHEN IN MOTION. THE LAST OCCURRENCE LOST 3 LUG BOLTS AT THE SAME TIME. THE LUG BOLTS SHEAR OFF ALONG WITH THE LUG NUTS. THERE WAS A RECALL IN 1998, AND FORD STATES THAT MY VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT IN DECEMBER OF”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10607495
“MY WIFE WAS DRIVING ON RT 3 WAS GOING AROUND A CURVE THE VEHICLE STARTED LIKE WOBBLING AND SHE WAS TRYING TO FIND A WIDE SPOT TO PULL OFF THE ROAD. WHEN SHE WENT AROUND THE CURVE THE TIRE CAME OFF AND SHE WAS SLUNG INTO THE OTHER LANE AND SHE COUNTER STIRRED AND WENT OVER AN”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10232151

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Cruise control deactivation switch engine fire

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

31 NHTSA complaints · 2005-10 → 2012-04

“MY 1998 FORD EXPEDITION CAUGHT ON FIRE AT 4:00 AM BY ITSELF. IT WAS LAST DRIVEN 14 HOURS PRIOR TO CATCHING ON FIRE. THE FIRE WAS SO HOT IT MELTED THE HOOD OF THE CAR. THE CAR WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE FIRE INSPECTOR SAID IT STARTED WHERE THE CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH WAS LOCATED”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10148494
“1998 FORD EXPEDITION CAUGHT FIRE AS A RESULT OF A FAULTY CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH (ACCORDING TO INSURANCE FIRE INVESTIGATOR) - FORD CLAIMED THEY SENT 3 RECALL NOTICES, BUT I NEVER RECEIVED ANY UNTIL 3 DAYS AFTER THE FIRE - I SUFFERED PERSONAL PROPERTY AND OTHER DAMAGES AND FORD HAS”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10202565
“DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE AND BURNED DOWN THEIR HOUSE, GARAGE, CAR AND OTHER BELONGINGS. THERE WAS A RECALL REMEDY #05V388000 PERFORMED FOR THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL LAST YEAR. THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL SWITCH CAUSED THE FIRE”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #10167721

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Issues on other model years

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI). Complaint data refreshed Sep 20, 2026. Investigation data refreshed Sep 20, 2026.

We display NHTSA's record with attribution; we don't editorialize on what these complaints mean for any specific vehicle.

Raw data + downloads for this vehicle →

Essential maintenance

Critical for safety and preventing major damage

Engine Oil & Filter

Every 7,500 mi

Replace synthetic-blend or full-synthetic Motorcraft oil per the IOLM, or every 7,500-10,000 miles. EcoBoost engines require full synthetic; Coyote 5.0L V8 specifies SAE 5W-30.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$120–$160

Shop

~$85–$115

DIY

~$25–$55

Full synthetic costs more than conventional. 5-quart 0W-20 + filter is the typical bill.

Tire Rotation

Every 10,000 mi

Rotate tires every 10,000 miles, or with every other oil change. F-150 4x4 owners should rotate every 5,000-7,500 miles to even out drivetrain bias wear.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$85

Shop

~$60

DIY

Free

Often free at the shop where you bought the tires — worth asking before paying.

Brake Inspection

Every 10,000 mi

Inspect brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid level every 10,000 miles. Front pads on F-150 and Explorer typically last 40,000-60,000 miles.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$85

Shop

~$60

DIY

Free

Most shops do this free as a courtesy with any service. Don't pay separately if you can avoid it.

Brake Fluid

Every 45,000 mi

Ford specifies brake fluid replacement on an inspection basis, but moisture testing every 3 years is recommended. Replace if reading exceeds 3% water content.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$180–$200

Shop

~$125–$140

DIY

~$10–$25

DOT 3 or 4 — match the cap. Vacuum bleeders make this a one-person DIY.

Important maintenance

Keeps your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently

Engine Air Filter

Every 30,000 mi

Replace the engine air filter every 30,000 miles. EcoBoost turbocharged engines are sensitive to airflow restriction — don't extend.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$60–$95

Shop

~$45–$70

DIY

~$15–$40

5-minute job on most cars; the airbox lid usually has clips, no tools needed.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Every 150,000 mi

Ford 6R80, 10R80, and 8F transmissions use Mercon LV fluid rated 150,000 miles under normal service. Severe service (towing, plowing) drops this to 60,000 miles.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$330–$500

Shop

~$235–$355

DIY

~$60–$180

Some sealed transmissions have no dipstick — fill is precise and best left to a shop. Many drivers can still DIY drain-and-fill.

Transfer Case Fluid (4WD models)

Every 60,000 mi

On 4x4 models, replace transfer case fluid every 60,000 miles. Use Motorcraft XL-12 — do not substitute generic transfer case fluid.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$105–$140

Shop

~$75–$100

DIY

~$15–$40

AWD/4WD vehicles only. Easy drain-and-fill on most platforms.

Rear Differential Fluid

Every 100,000 mi

F-Series and Expedition: replace rear axle fluid every 100,000 miles, or 50,000 miles if towing. Limited-slip rear ends require friction-modifier additive.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$150–$195

Shop

~$105–$135

DIY

~$20–$50

Drain plug + fill plug — straightforward DIY. AWD vehicles have two; budget for both.

Spark Plugs

Every 100,000 mi

Iridium spark plugs on Coyote 5.0L, EcoBoost 2.7L/3.5L, and 2.3L are rated 100,000 miles. EcoBoost engines: never exceed the interval — gap erosion causes coil failure.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$285–$390

Shop

~$200–$275

DIY

~$25–$100

Iridium plugs cost more but last 100k+ miles. V6/V8 access varies wildly — some are tough.

Engine Coolant

Every 50,000 mi

Motorcraft Orange (Dex-Cool compatible) coolant: first change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000. Older trucks with Yellow Motorcraft coolant: 50,000 miles throughout.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$285–$330

Shop

~$200–$235

DIY

~$25–$60

Use the manufacturer-specified coolant — wrong color/chemistry can damage the cooling system.

Recommended maintenance

Extends the life of your vehicle and improves comfort

Cabin Air Filter

Every 20,000 mi

Replace the cabin air filter every 20,000 miles. On F-150, located behind the glove box; on Escape and Explorer, accessed from the passenger footwell.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$60–$95

Shop

~$45–$70

DIY

~$15–$40

Usually behind the glovebox. Shops charge labor for a 10-minute job — easy DIY win.

Fatal crash history & reported problems

Occupant deaths in fatal crashes (FARS)

472 crashes 1990–2024

How the 472 occupant deaths break down

294

driver deaths

175

passenger deaths

3

not recorded by seat

472

occupant deaths

Crash years covered: 1990–2024 This model year first appears in 1997 crashes. Older models have had more years on the road to appear in these crashes, so a higher count here does not by itself mean a vehicle is less safe.

FARS counts every occupant death in a fatal crash, whatever the cause — it does not mean the vehicle was at fault or defective. Counts are not adjusted for how many of each vehicle are on the road. How to read this number

FARS 2024 data is an annual report file. NHTSA revises these records when the final file is published, so this count can change.

Why we show driver deaths too

Every vehicle has exactly one driver seat, so driver deaths line up fairly when you compare one model to another. Occupant deaths include passengers, so a three row SUV can show a higher number than a two seat car simply because it carries more people.

Both figures are plain counts, not rates. A rate would need to know how many of each vehicle are on the road, and that registration data is not public, so we do not publish rates or scores of any kind.

IIHS publishes driver death rates using this same driver only idea, paired with a registered vehicle years denominator we do not have. Their rates and these counts answer different questions, so do not read either number here as a safety rating.

Owner-reported problem signals

Separate from the federal fatality data above: complaints owners filed with NHTSA about this year and model. These are reports of problems, unverified, and are counted here only as signals.

45

complaints mentioning a crash

79

complaints mentioning a fire

Reviewed known issues for this vehicle

Typical U.S. ranges. Actual quotes vary by shop, parts choice, and vehicle condition.

How we estimate: Dealer = OEM parts × 1.4 + labor × $165/hr. Shop = parts + labor × $115/hr. DIY = parts only.

This maintenance schedule for the 1998 Ford Expedition reflects Ford's published service intervals and the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor system. Your actual service needs may vary based on driving conditions, climate, and vehicle usage. Always consult your owner's manual for model-specific recommendations.

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