2017 Ford Expedition Fuel Capacity – Every Detail You Need
The 2017 Ford Expedition offers two primary fuel tank sizes: 28 gallons for the standard wheelbase models and 33.5 gallons for the extended-length (EL) versions. Knowing these specs helps you accurately plan long-distance hauls, estimate fuel costs, and understand your vehicle’s maximum driving range.
Do you ever find yourself eyeing the fuel gauge while towing a heavy trailer through a remote mountain pass? It is a common worry for many full-size SUV owners who rely on their rigs for more than just grocery runs.
When you understand the 2017 ford expedition fuel capacity, you can push your adventures further with confidence. This guide will help you master your fuel management, whether you are commuting or heading off the beaten path.
We will break down the tank specifications, explore real-world range, and look at how to keep your fuel system running at peak performance. Let’s dive into the technical details of this powerhouse SUV.
Understanding the 2017 Ford Expedition Fuel Capacity by Trim Level
Ford designed the 2017 Expedition to be a versatile workhorse, and that versatility extends to its fuel storage. The amount of gasoline you can carry depends entirely on the chassis configuration of your specific vehicle.
The standard wheelbase Expedition, which measures about 206 inches in total length, comes equipped with a 28-gallon fuel tank. This is the most common configuration found on the XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum trims.
If you own the Expedition EL (Extended Length), your 2017 ford expedition fuel capacity increases significantly to 33.5 gallons. This larger tank is necessary to offset the extra weight of the longer body and to provide the long-range capability that EL owners expect.
Standard Wheelbase vs. EL (Extended Length)
The standard 119-inch wheelbase is perfect for families who need three rows of seating but still want to fit into a standard garage. The 28-gallon tank provides a solid balance between weight and range for daily driving.
The EL models sit on a 131-inch wheelbase and offer much more cargo space behind the third row. That extra 5.5 gallons of fuel in the EL tank can be a lifesaver when you are overlanding or crossing stretches of highway with few service stations.
Always check your door jamb sticker or owner’s manual if you are unsure which model you have. Generally, if your rear cargo area looks deep enough to hold a full set of luggage with the seats up, you likely have the 33.5-gallon EL model.
Real-World Range: How Many Miles Can You Actually Drive?
Having a large tank is only half of the equation; you also need to know how fast that fuel disappears. The 2017 Expedition features the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine as its only powertrain option, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
For the standard 2WD model, the EPA estimates are roughly 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. With the 28-gallon 2017 ford expedition fuel capacity, your theoretical maximum highway range is about 588 miles.
However, real-world driving rarely matches laboratory tests. Factors like wind resistance, tire pressure, and passenger load will usually bring your actual range closer to 450 or 500 miles on a full tank.
Calculating Your “Safe” Range
Experienced drivers never run their tanks down to the last drop. It is wise to leave a 2-3 gallon “safety buffer” to protect your fuel pump and account for unexpected traffic or detours.
If you are driving an EL model with the 33.5-gallon tank, you can expect a highway range of over 600 miles under ideal conditions. This makes the Expedition EL one of the best long-distance cruisers in the full-size SUV segment.
To calculate your specific range, multiply your average mpg (found on your dashboard trip computer) by your total tank capacity minus two gallons. This gives you a realistic distance to travel before you must find a gas station.
The EcoBoost Factor: How the 3.5L Engine Affects Your Range
The twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost engine is a marvel of modern engineering, providing 365 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. While it is more efficient than the old V8 engines, it is very sensitive to how you drive.
When the turbos are “in boost,” meaning they are forcing extra air into the engine for power, the 2017 ford expedition fuel capacity will seem to disappear much faster. Heavy acceleration or high-speed cruising will significantly lower your mileage.
To maximize your range, try to keep the “Instant MPG” gauge on your dashboard in the green. Using cruise control on flat highways can help the computer manage the fuel injectors more precisely than a human foot.
Octane Ratings and Performance
Ford states that the 2017 Expedition can run on 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline. However, for those towing heavy loads or driving in hot climates, using 91 or 93 octane can improve efficiency and performance.
Higher octane fuel allows the engine’s knock sensors to advance the timing without causing “pinging.” This often results in a slight bump in miles per gallon, which can be beneficial on very long trips.
If you are trying to squeeze every bit of value out of your 2017 ford expedition fuel capacity, experiment with a few tanks of premium fuel. Monitor your mileage to see if the increase in MPG offsets the higher cost at the pump.
Towing Capacity and Its Dramatic Effect on Fuel Efficiency
One of the main reasons people buy an Expedition is its massive towing capacity, which reaches up to 9,200 pounds when properly equipped. However, towing a large travel trailer or boat will slash your fuel economy in half.
When towing, it is common to see fuel economy drop to 8-10 mpg. In this scenario, even the 33.5-gallon tank in the EL model might only provide a range of 250 to 300 miles.
Planning your fuel stops becomes critical when hauling. Use apps like GasBuddy or integrated navigation systems to find stations that have enough physical space for a truck and a long trailer to maneuver.
Aerodynamics and Weight
The shape of your trailer matters just as much as its weight. A tall, “boxy” camper creates immense wind drag, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel from your 2017 ford expedition fuel capacity.
To help mitigate this, ensure your trailer tires are properly inflated and your load is balanced. Removing unnecessary weight from the interior of the Expedition can also provide a small but helpful boost to your towing range.
Always remember that the 3.5L EcoBoost is a direct-injection engine. Under the heavy load of towing, it generates significant heat, so keeping an eye on your engine temperature gauge is just as important as watching the fuel level.
Maintenance for Maximum Efficiency: The Fuel System Components
To ensure you are getting the most out of every gallon, you must maintain the components that deliver fuel to the engine. A neglected fuel system can lead to poor atomization and wasted gasoline.
The 2017 Expedition uses a “lifetime” fuel filter located inside the fuel tank as part of the fuel pump assembly. While you don’t need to change it regularly, you should avoid running the tank near empty to prevent debris from clogging the pickup screen.
Using a high-quality fuel system cleaner once every 5,000 miles can help remove carbon deposits from the intake valves. Because the EcoBoost is direct-injected, these valves don’t get “washed” by fuel, making additives or specialized cleaning services important.
The Importance of the Air Filter
Your engine needs a precise mix of air and fuel to combust efficiently. A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the computer to compensate by adjusting the fuel trim, which often hurts your mileage.
Check your air filter every time you change your oil. If you drive on dusty trails or gravel roads, you may need to replace it more frequently than the standard 30,000-mile interval recommended by the factory.
Installing a high-flow dry-media filter can sometimes improve throttle response. However, avoid “oiled” filters, as the oil can sometimes contaminate the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, leading to erratic engine behavior and poor fuel economy.
Troubleshooting Common Fuel Gauge and Sending Unit Issues
Sometimes, the problem isn’t how much fuel you have, but how much fuel the car thinks it has. If your gauge is fluctuating wildly or showing empty right after a fill-up, you might have a failing sending unit.
The sending unit is a float-style sensor attached to the fuel pump inside the tank. Over time, sulfur deposits from low-quality gasoline can coat the rheostat (the electrical contact), causing incorrect readings on your dashboard.
Before rushing to a mechanic, try using a concentrated fuel system cleaner designed to remove sulfur buildup. In many cases, this can “clean” the sensor and restore accurate fuel level reporting without needing to drop the tank.
The Capless “Easy Fuel” System
The 2017 Expedition features Ford’s Easy Fuel capless filler. While convenient, it can sometimes cause issues if dirt or debris gets trapped in the spring-loaded door, preventing a tight seal.
If you see a “Check Fuel Fill Inlet” message on your dash, it usually means the system has detected an evaporative emission (EVAP) leak. This can actually cause fuel to evaporate out of your tank, slowly wasting your 2017 ford expedition fuel capacity.
Use a clean rag to wipe around the inlet and insert the fuel nozzle a few times to clear any grit. If the light stays on, you may need to have a technician perform a “smoke test” to find the leak in the EVAP lines or the charcoal canister.
Off-Roading and Overlanding: Planning Your Fuel Reserves
For the off-road enthusiast, fuel management is a safety priority. Crawling over rocks or driving through deep sand in 4WD Low will consume fuel at a much higher rate than highway cruising.
When heading into the backcountry, the “rule of thirds” is a great standard to follow. Use one-third of your fuel to get in, one-third to get back out, and keep one-third as a reserve for emergencies or wrong turns.
If your 28-gallon tank isn’t enough for your planned route, consider carrying external fuel cans. However, you must mount these safely on a roof rack or a rear bumper swing-out to prevent fumes or leaks inside the cabin.
Weight Management on the Trail
Every extra pound of gear you carry reduces your effective range. While it is tempting to bring every tool and accessory, try to stay within the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your Expedition.
An overloaded vehicle handles poorly off-road and puts excessive strain on the transmission and cooling system. This strain directly translates to higher fuel consumption, eating into your reserves faster than expected.
If you frequently travel in remote areas, consider upgrading to lighter-weight aluminum skid plates and wheels. This reduces the “unsprung weight,” which can help maintain better fuel efficiency even with larger all-terrain tires installed.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Ford Expedition Fuel Capacity
How far can I drive when the low fuel light comes on?
Generally, the low fuel light in a 2017 Expedition illuminates when there are approximately 2 to 3 gallons of fuel remaining. Depending on your driving conditions, this gives you a range of about 30 to 50 miles. However, you should find a station immediately to avoid damaging the fuel pump.
Does the 2017 Ford Expedition require premium gas?
No, the 3.5L EcoBoost engine is designed to run on 87-octane regular unleaded. While premium fuel (91+ octane) is recommended for “best overall performance” especially when towing, it is not a requirement for daily driving.
Can I upgrade my 28-gallon tank to the 33.5-gallon EL tank?
Technically, the tanks are different shapes and sizes designed for specific frame lengths. Swapping them is not a “bolt-on” procedure and would require extensive modifications to the frame, fuel lines, and computer calibration. It is usually more cost-effective to carry external fuel containers if you need more range.
Why does my fuel gauge stay on “Full” for a long time and then drop quickly?
This is often due to the shape of the fuel tank and the design of the sending unit. The top portion of the tank may be wider, meaning it takes more fuel to move the float down the first few inches. It is a common characteristic of many large SUVs and not necessarily a sign of a mechanical problem.
Maximize Your Journey with Better Fuel Knowledge
Mastering your 2017 ford expedition fuel capacity is about more than just knowing a number. It is about understanding how your driving habits, maintenance schedule, and vehicle load all work together to determine your range.
Whether you are piloting the standard 28-gallon model or the massive 33.5-gallon EL, being proactive with your fuel management ensures that you spend more time enjoying the road and less time worrying about the next pump.
Keep your air filter clean, watch your boost levels, and always leave a little extra in the tank for the unexpected. With a little planning and the right preventative maintenance, your Expedition will remain the ultimate long-distance companion for years to come. Stay safe and enjoy the drive!
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