2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer: Review, Specs & More
Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer, a classic SUV that still holds its own. If you're considering buying one, or just curious about its specs and features, you've come to the right place. We're going to cover everything from its performance and reliability to its interior comfort and overall value. So, buckle up, and let's get started!
Overview of the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer
The 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer is a full-size SUV that was designed to offer a blend of luxury, capability, and practicality. As part of the Eddie Bauer trim, it came with several premium features that set it apart from the base models. This vehicle was aimed at families needing ample space, towing capacity, and a touch of class. Think road trips, soccer practices, and hauling trailers – this SUV was built to handle it all. The Eddie Bauer edition specifically added a touch of rugged elegance, making it appealing to those who wanted a vehicle that was both functional and stylish.
Ford introduced the Expedition in the late 1990s as a replacement for the Bronco, and it quickly became a popular choice in the full-size SUV market. The 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer continued this legacy by offering a well-rounded package. It boasted a powerful engine, a comfortable interior, and a robust exterior design. Competing with other SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe and the GMC Yukon, the Expedition held its ground by offering a unique combination of features and capabilities. The Eddie Bauer trim further enhanced its appeal with its distinctive styling and upgraded amenities. This model year was particularly noteworthy because it represented a sweet spot in the Expedition's lifespan, offering a balance of modern features and proven reliability.
The target audience for the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer was primarily families who needed a large vehicle for various purposes. Whether it was for daily commuting, long road trips, or towing recreational equipment, this SUV was designed to meet those needs. The Eddie Bauer trim specifically appealed to those who wanted a bit more luxury and style. Features like leather seats, woodgrain trim, and upgraded audio systems made it a comfortable and enjoyable vehicle to drive. Additionally, its robust construction and available four-wheel drive made it suitable for handling various terrains and weather conditions. This versatility made it a popular choice among those who lived in areas with challenging climates or who frequently engaged in outdoor activities. The reputation of Ford for building durable and capable trucks and SUVs also played a significant role in attracting buyers to the Expedition.
Performance and Engine Specs
When it comes to performance, the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine. This engine was known for its reliability and strong performance, making it a great choice for a large SUV. The 5.4L Triton V8 engine delivers around 260 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This power output is more than sufficient for daily driving, towing, and hauling cargo. The engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive shifting. While it might not be the most fuel-efficient setup, it gets the job done and provides a comfortable driving experience. The engine's torque curve is also quite flat, meaning that it delivers strong pulling power across a wide range of RPMs. This makes it particularly useful for towing heavy loads or climbing steep hills.
The 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer offers decent towing and hauling capabilities, making it a practical choice for those who need to transport heavy loads. Depending on the configuration, it can tow up to 8,900 pounds when properly equipped. This is more than enough for towing boats, trailers, and other recreational equipment. The payload capacity is also quite respectable, allowing you to carry a significant amount of cargo inside the vehicle. To enhance its towing capabilities, the Expedition Eddie Bauer comes with features like a heavy-duty tow package, which includes a trailer hitch receiver, wiring harness, and transmission cooler. These components help to ensure that the vehicle can handle the added stress of towing heavy loads. Additionally, the Expedition's robust suspension system and strong frame contribute to its overall towing stability and control. Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or need to haul equipment for work, the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer is up to the task.
The driving experience in the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer is generally comfortable and smooth, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and spacious interior. The suspension system effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, providing a relatively smooth ride. The steering is responsive and provides decent feedback, making it easy to maneuver the vehicle in various driving conditions. The brakes are also adequate, providing sufficient stopping power for a vehicle of this size. However, it's important to keep in mind that the Expedition is a large SUV, so it's not as nimble as smaller vehicles. It requires more space to turn and park, and its high center of gravity can result in some body roll during cornering. Overall, the driving experience is pleasant and confidence-inspiring, especially on long road trips. The comfortable seats, ample legroom, and user-friendly controls make it a great vehicle for both drivers and passengers. Additionally, the available four-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in adverse weather conditions.
Interior and Features
Stepping inside the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer, you'll find a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The interior was designed with comfort and practicality in mind, making it a great choice for families and those who need ample space. The Eddie Bauer trim added several upscale features, including leather upholstery, woodgrain trim, and upgraded audio systems. These features enhanced the overall look and feel of the interior, giving it a more luxurious touch. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives more enjoyable. The dashboard layout is straightforward and easy to use, with all the essential controls within easy reach. Overall, the interior of the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer is a pleasant place to spend time, offering a good balance of comfort, style, and functionality.
Notable interior features in the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer include leather seats, a premium audio system, and automatic climate control. The leather seats are not only comfortable but also durable and easy to clean. The premium audio system provides excellent sound quality, making it a great choice for music lovers. Automatic climate control allows you to set your desired temperature and let the system do the rest, ensuring a comfortable cabin environment regardless of the weather outside. Other features include power-adjustable seats, a sunroof, and a rear-seat entertainment system. These features added to the overall comfort and convenience of the vehicle, making it a great choice for long road trips and daily commuting. The interior also offers plenty of storage space, including a large center console, door pockets, and a glove compartment. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making it easy to transport large items.
In terms of technology and convenience, the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer offers a range of features that enhance the driving experience. These include power windows, power door locks, and keyless entry. Power windows and door locks make it easy to operate the vehicle's essential functions, while keyless entry allows you to unlock and start the vehicle without using a key. Other features include cruise control, which allows you to maintain a constant speed on the highway, and a trip computer, which provides information about fuel economy, distance traveled, and other useful data. The available navigation system helps you find your way to your destination, while the rear parking sensors make it easier to park in tight spaces. These features make the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer a comfortable and convenient vehicle to drive, especially on long trips. The integration of these technologies reflects Ford's commitment to providing a user-friendly and enjoyable driving experience.
Reliability and Common Issues
When considering a used vehicle like the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer, reliability is a key factor. Overall, the Expedition is known for being a relatively reliable SUV, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common issues. One of the most common problems reported by owners is related to the spark plugs. The spark plugs can sometimes break or get stuck in the cylinder heads, which can be a costly repair. Other common issues include problems with the suspension system, transmission, and air conditioning. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help to prevent these issues from becoming major problems. It's also important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing it, to ensure that there are no hidden issues. Despite these potential problems, the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, especially when properly maintained.
To keep your 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer running smoothly, regular maintenance is essential. This includes regular oil changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups. It's also important to check the fluid levels regularly, including the coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. The suspension system should be inspected regularly for wear and tear, and the tires should be properly inflated and rotated. The brakes should also be inspected regularly to ensure that they are in good working condition. By following a regular maintenance schedule, you can help to prevent major problems and extend the life of your vehicle. It's also a good idea to keep a record of all maintenance and repairs, which can be helpful when it comes time to sell the vehicle. Regular maintenance not only keeps your vehicle running smoothly but also helps to maintain its value.
Real owners of the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer often share their experiences and opinions online. Many owners praise the vehicle for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. They also appreciate its towing capabilities and its ability to handle various terrains and weather conditions. However, some owners have reported issues with fuel economy and reliability. They also mention that the vehicle can be expensive to maintain, especially when major repairs are needed. Overall, the reviews are mixed, but most owners agree that the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer is a capable and versatile SUV. It's important to read reviews from multiple sources before making a decision, to get a balanced view of the vehicle's pros and cons. Consulting with other owners and mechanics can also provide valuable insights into the vehicle's reliability and potential problems.
Pricing and Value
As a used vehicle, the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer can be quite affordable, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. The price of a used 2004 Expedition Eddie Bauer can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and location. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 for a well-maintained model. However, prices can be higher for vehicles with low mileage or in excellent condition. It's important to do your research and compare prices from multiple sources before making a purchase. Online marketplaces, dealerships, and private sellers are all good places to start your search. Keep in mind that the price of the vehicle is just one factor to consider. You should also factor in the cost of insurance, maintenance, and repairs when evaluating the overall value of the vehicle.
When comparing the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer to other SUVs in its class, it offers a good balance of features, performance, and price. Competitors like the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon offer similar capabilities, but they may be more expensive or have different features. The Expedition stands out for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and robust towing capabilities. It also offers a range of features that enhance the driving experience, such as leather seats, a premium audio system, and automatic climate control. However, the Expedition may not be as fuel-efficient as some of its competitors, and it may require more maintenance and repairs. Ultimately, the best SUV for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider what features are most important to you, and compare the pros and cons of each vehicle before making a decision.
Considering the features, reliability, and price, the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer can offer good value for the right buyer. If you're looking for a spacious and capable SUV that can handle daily driving, long road trips, and towing heavy loads, the Expedition is worth considering. The Eddie Bauer trim adds a touch of luxury and style, making it a more comfortable and enjoyable vehicle to drive. However, it's important to keep in mind that the Expedition is an older vehicle, so it may require more maintenance and repairs than newer models. It's also important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing it, to ensure that there are no hidden issues. If you're willing to put in the time and effort to maintain the vehicle properly, the 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer can be a great value for the money.
Conclusion
The 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer is a solid choice if you're in the market for a used, full-size SUV. It offers a blend of power, space, and comfort that's hard to beat, especially at its price point. While it's not without its quirks and potential maintenance needs, its overall reliability and capabilities make it a worthwhile contender. Just remember to do your homework, get a thorough inspection, and you might just find yourself a great deal on a versatile and dependable SUV. Happy driving, everyone!