2013 Ford Expedition Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2013 Ford Expedition and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2013 Ford Expedition engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2013 Ford Expedition engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2013 Ford Expedition?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2013 Ford Expedition, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may arise. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, where a failing fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter can disrupt the flow of fuel, leading to stalling. Additionally, the air intake system plays a vital role; a malfunctioning mass air flow sensor can cause rough idling and hesitation, ultimately resulting in engine stalling. Ignition system issues, such as faulty cam position sensors or timing chain problems, can also lead to misfires and stalling. Furthermore, engine timing complications, particularly with Variable Valve Timing (VVT), can cause significant performance issues, including stalling. Lastly, it's important to consider other factors like check engine light warnings, overheating, or even a locked-up engine, especially in high-mileage vehicles. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these signs are essential for preventing stalling and ensuring the longevity of your Expedition.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2013 Ford Expedition's engine is stalling?

When faced with engine stalling in a 2013 Ford Expedition, it's crucial to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the fuel pump driver module located near the fuel tank, as issues here can disrupt fuel delivery. Next, perform a diagnostic test to retrieve any digital trouble codes (DTCs) that may provide insights into the underlying issues. Pay attention to the catalytic converters, as they can lead to power loss; however, stalling typically occurs only if they are severely clogged. Additionally, verify the engine timing, since incorrect timing can result in stalling and misfiring. Keep an eye out for common symptoms such as a check engine light and poor fuel economy, which may indicate an incorrect air-fuel mixture. Lastly, consider the possibility of exhaust backpressure buildup, which could stem from a plugged catalytic converter or damaged exhaust pipes. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the stalling issue and take appropriate action to resolve it.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2013 Ford Expedition?

Addressing engine stalling in a 2013 Ford Expedition is crucial due to the serious safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls, it can lead to sudden loss of power, making it difficult to control the vehicle, especially in high-traffic situations. This not only endangers the driver and passengers but also other road users. Additionally, stalling can be indicative of underlying issues such as fuel delivery problems, ignition system failures, or sensor malfunctions, which, if left unresolved, may escalate into more severe mechanical failures and costly repairs. Therefore, it is essential for DIYers to prioritize diagnosing the root causes of engine stalling promptly. By doing so, they can ensure the vehicle operates safely and efficiently, preventing further complications that could arise from ignoring these critical symptoms.

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