Suspension complaints by model year
Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, springs).
Mileage when the problem started
What owners report
Tl contact owns a 2004 Ford Excursion. The contact stated the steering wheel felt loose while driving approximately 25 MPH. The failure began to recur while driving at various speeds. The vehicle was taken to an auto shop where the contact was told that there was a crack on the front passenger side stabilizer bracket. Crack was welded and a gusset was applied between the bracket and front axle. The failure and current mileages were 169,000. Updated 05/26/11 the consumer stated the crack was three plus inches long and if not corrected would break off and cause the steering to become very unstable, thus making a side load hard to turn, which could easily cause complete loss of control. Updated 06/06/11
We purchased 2004 Ford Excursion with the 6.0l diesel engine new in February 2004. It has been to the dealer now 2 times for the back up sensor, approximately 5 times for the turbo, unable to count the number of times for the lack of power, the vent windows not working, 3 times for the motor on the power drivers seat, ball joints 1 time, and now other front end parts. This vehicle is primarily used to go to church and travel with the entire family on the weekends for day trips. We have had it to graham Ford several times, germain Ford several times, (both are in columbus, ohio) and the last place we have it is donley Ford in mount vernon, ohio. We can get a full history of all repairs on this vehicle if needed. There have been so many things gone wrong with the truck that it is difficult to keep track. The service advisor is now telling my wife to "just trade it in". …
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Excursion. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the suspension made an abnormal popping sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that an air bubble had formed on the front passenger's side tire which he linked to the suspension failure. The tire was not replaced. The contact also stated that after he replaced the radio inside the vehicle, the radio had become defective after the second day of installation. The contact stated that an abnormal buzzing sound was coming from the speakers. Upon investigation, he linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V327000 (Electrical System). Additionally, the contact also mentioned that the vehicle would stall while at a complete stop without warning. The contact had a friend inspect the vehicle and he informed him that the camshaft needed to be replaced. …
2003 Ford Excursion lost control under normal highway driving conditions swerving into both left and right lanes barely missing other vehicles. I returned vehicle to dealership with complaint. They had no explanation or solution. I contacted Ford and was told it was up to the dealership to rectify problem. I was not willing to wait and see if it would happen again considering the safety of my family. We were left with no option from the dealership other than to trade vehicle in with great financial loss. They would not consider a buy-back under circumstances. I have copies of letter of complaint and surveys Ford sent to me. I got no further response from Ford. In light of the recent Firestone recall regarding excursions I feel validated in my complaint and would like financial compensation. We acted hastily out of fear and lost a large amount of money in the "trade-in".
While driving 30 MPH the consumer lost control of the vehicle and ended up in a ditch. The consumer stated that the vehicles tires lose air prematurely. The cause has yet to be determined. Please provide any additional information.
Truck keeps pulling and jumping across lanes at speeds of 50 it has been at freedom Ford 3times and the last time had an accident hitting into a tractor trailor as it jumped from right lane to left smashing my mirror and door I use this vech. As a livery (limo) and are afraid it might kill me or some one else fmcc says I have to wait 5 times for lemon law and they are fixing door and mirror but still dont know why it pulls that way. I dont know what to do and are scared of driving this vech again.
While driving 55-60mph vehicle hit a small pothole and began bouncing erratically, and consumer lost control. Consumer was not able to keep vehicle in lane,and was only able to regain control once vehicle came to a complete stop. Problem has occurred twice; 1st incident 06/03/02, and 2nd incident 07/16/02. Vehicle is currently being checked by dealer.
It's happened be for but never so scary. We were coming down one of the mountains on highway 299. We were,doing the speed limit of 55. And as we applied the brake it started pulling to the right. Like it was gonna go off the road. It also was vibrating so bad it felt like it was going to fall apart. We pulled over checked for loose bolts. Tire imperfections but nothing.
NHTSA investigations
Pulls under hard braking
There is no summary currently available
Frequently asked questions
Which Ford Excursion years have suspension problems?
By NHTSA complaints, the 2000 (35), 2001 (14), 2003 (6) and 2002 (5) model years. Suspension complaints make up 7% of all complaints for the 2000.
Is there a recall for Ford Excursion suspension problems?
No. NHTSA lists no suspension recall for any Ford Excursion model year. A widespread problem may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin, so ask a dealer.
At what mileage do Ford Excursion suspension problems start?
Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 63,000 miles; 39% happened before 50,000 miles.
What part fails most often?
Owners most often name the front (20 mentions), followed by the front › control arm › lower ball joint (6).
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.