From personal experience, the 2017 Ford Expedition’s acceleration issues often result from a dirty throttle body, weak fuel pump, or clogged injectors. Regular maintenance and timely diagnostics can prevent hesitation, jerking, and power loss. Addressing these problems early ensures smoother performance and better fuel efficiency.
The 2017 Ford Expedition acceleration issues can be caused by a dirty throttle body, weak fuel pump, clogged injectors, or transmission problems. Regular maintenance, sensor cleaning, and timely repairs help restore smooth performance. Diagnosing issues early ensures better fuel efficiency and reliable acceleration.
Stay tuned with us as we dive into 2017 Ford Expedition Acceleration Issues: Causes & Fixes. We’ll explore common problems, their solutions, and expert tips to keep your Expedition running smoothly. Don’t miss out on essential insights to improve performance and fuel efficiency!
Why Does My 2017 Ford Expedition Shake When I Accelerate Past 56 Mph?
If your 2017 Ford Expedition shakes when you accelerate past 56 mph, it could be caused by a few different issues. Many owners have noticed that once they pass this speed, the RPMs start to fluctuate, sometimes triggering a flashing check engine light and even misfires in certain cylinders (often cylinders 5 and 6).
Here are some possible reasons why this happens:
- Ignition system problems: Worn-out spark plugs or failing ignition coils can cause the engine to misfire under load, leading to shaking.
- Fuel delivery issues: A weak fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or dirty fuel injectors can cause uneven fuel supply, making the engine struggle at higher speeds.
- Unbalanced or worn-out tires: If the shaking feels more like a vibration in the steering wheel or floorboard, it could be due to uneven tire wear, a bent wheel, or bad alignment.
- Transmission or drivetrain issues: A worn-out driveshaft, bad CV joint, or transmission problem can cause shaking, especially under acceleration.
- Engine mounts: If an engine mount is cracked or broken, the extra movement when accelerating could cause a noticeable shake.
Why Does My Check Engine Light Flash And My Expedition Misfire When I Hit The Gas?
A flashing check engine light is a big deal. It means there’s a serious engine misfire happening. This means that unburned fuel is being dumped into the exhaust system. This can quickly overheat and damage the catalytic converter, which can lead to a costly repair.
Here’s why misfires happen:
- Spark Plugs: A worn, old, or dirty spark plug is a common culprit.
- Ignition System: Problems with the ignition coils or spark plug wires can also cause misfires.
- Fuel and Air: Issues with the fuel injection system, a dirty mass airflow sensor, or vacuum leaks can disrupt the air/fuel mixture.
- Catalytic Converter: A bad or failing catalytic converter can cause the check engine light to come on.
- O2 Sensor: A faulty oxygen sensor.
What you should do:
- Stop driving it: A flashing check engine light means you shouldn’t drive the car to prevent further damage.
- Get it checked: Take it to a certified mechanic to diagnose the exact cause. They’ll use a scan tool to read the trouble codes stored in the Expedition’s computer.
What Does It Mean If My Expedition Suddenly Loses Power And Goes Into Limp Mode?
When your Expedition suddenly loses power and maybe even throws a wrench icon on the dash, it’s a frustrating situation, but here’s what could be happening in plain language:
- Limp Mode: The vehicle is likely going into “limp mode”. This is a safety feature that the car’s computer activates to prevent further damage when it detects a serious problem. It restricts engine power and speed.
- Throttle Body Issues: A common culprit is the throttle body getting stuck. This can cause a sudden loss of power.
- MAF or MAP Sensors: Issues with the MAF (Mass Air Flow) or MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensors could be at play, especially after climbing hills.
- Fuel Delivery Problems: It could be related to fuel delivery, like a failing fuel pump.
- Vacuum Leak: A vacuum leak at the elbow connector at the rear of the engine.
- Catalytic Converter: A clogged catalytic converter can cause a loss of power.
- Ignition Coils: Failing ignition coils can lead to misfires and power loss.
- Low Battery Voltage: Low battery voltage is another possible cause.
What to do:
- Check for Codes: See if any trouble codes are stored in the vehicle’s computer. An OBD II scanner can help you retrieve these codes.
- Professional Diagnosis: The best bet is to take it to a trusted mechanic who can properly diagnose the issue
Why Does My Expedition Shift Hard After A Transmission Fluid Change?
If your 2017 Ford Expedition shifts hard after a transmission fluid change, it’s likely due to:
- Adaptive Learning Reset: The transmission needs time to relearn shift patterns.
- Fluid Level Issues: Too much or too little fluid can affect shifting.
- Air in the System: Trapped air can cause rough shifts until it works out.
- Wrong Fluid Type: Always use Mercon LV ATF as recommended by Ford.
- Clogged Filter: A dirty transmission filter can restrict fluid flow.
Fixes:
- Drive 100-200 miles to allow relearning.
- Check fluid level and type.
- If it persists, scan for transmission error codes or update the TCM software.
Why Does My Expedition Make A Whining Sound When Accelerating?
If your 2017 Ford Expedition makes a whining sound when you accelerate, it usually means something isn’t working quite right under the hood. Here are some common reasons why this might be happening:
Transmission Issues
If the whining noise gets louder as you speed up, it could be coming from the transmission pump or low transmission fluid. When the fluid runs low or gets old, the internal parts don’t get properly lubricated, causing a high-pitched whine.
Power Steering Pump
If the noise happens more when you’re turning and accelerating, the power steering pump might be wearing out. A failing pump or low power steering fluid can create a whining or groaning noise.
Alternator Problems
A bad alternator bearing can also create a whining noise, especially if the pitch changes with RPM. If your lights flicker or your battery struggles, this could be the culprit.
Clogged Catalytic Converter
If your Expedition feels sluggish along with the whining sound, a partially clogged catalytic converter could be restricting airflow in the exhaust, making the engine work harder than it should.
Belt or Pulley Issues
A worn or loose serpentine belt or a bad idler pulley can cause a high-pitched whining noise, especially when you accelerate. If you hear a squeal too, this could be a sign that the belt needs replacing.
How to Fix It?
First, check your fluid levels (transmission, power steering, etc.). If the noise is coming from the front of the engine, it could be a belt or pulley issue. If it’s from underneath, transmission or exhaust problems may be the cause. A mechanic can help pinpoint the exact issue if you’re unsure.
What Other Problems Can Cause Sluggish Acceleration In The 2017 Expedition?
- Engine Issues: A misdirected or faulty spark plug or faulty coil packs. A tune-up might be needed to replace worn plugs and wires. Low engine oil and a faulty gear ratio can also cause sluggish acceleration.
- Fuel System Problems: Issues in the fuel system, like dirty fuel, engine over fueling, an undersized fuel tank, or a faulty fuel pump, can lead to sluggish acceleration. Contaminated fuel can also make the engine run roughly.
- Airflow Obstructions: A clogged air filter or a dirty mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow to the engine.
- Transmission Troubles: A faulty transmission or bad gear can cause slow acceleration.
- Clogged Exhaust: A clogged exhaust can cause the engine to struggle.
- Vacuum Leaks: Vacuum leaks can also cause a loss of power.
FAQS
1. Why does my 2017 Ford Expedition hesitate before picking up speed?
A dirty throttle body, weak fuel pump, or outdated engine software can cause delayed acceleration. Cleaning the throttle body, checking the fuel system, and updating the software may help.
2. Why does my Expedition lose power when climbing hills?
A failing fuel pump, clogged catalytic converter, or misfiring spark plugs can make the engine struggle under load. If there’s a whining noise, the issue could be in the fuel system or transmission. A professional diagnosis is best.
3. Why does my Expedition jerk when I press the gas?
A dirty MAF sensor, failing transmission components, or vacuum leak can cause jerky acceleration. Cleaning the MAF sensor, checking for vacuum leaks, and inspecting the transmission can help.
4. Why is my gas mileage dropping along with sluggish acceleration?
A stuck thermostat, bad O2 sensors, or clogged fuel injectors can reduce fuel efficiency. Replacing sensors, cleaning injectors, and ensuring proper engine temperature can improve performance.
5. Why does my Expedition vibrate when accelerating at high speeds?
Unbalanced tires, worn CV joints, or loose engine mounts can cause vibrations. Checking tire balance, drivetrain components, and engine mounts can resolve the issue.
Conclusion
The 2017 Ford Expedition may experience acceleration issues due to several factors, including a dirty throttle body, weak fuel pump, clogged catalytic converter, ignition problems, or transmission issues. Symptoms like hesitation, jerking, sluggish acceleration, or vibrations often point to underlying mechanical or electronic faults. Regular maintenance—such as cleaning sensors, replacing worn-out components, and updating engine software—can help prevent these problems. If acceleration issues persist, a diagnostic scan and professional inspection can pinpoint the exact cause and ensure a proper fix, keeping your Expedition running smoothly.
