2017 Ford Explorer Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The most critical ownership risk is exhaust fume/carbon monoxide intrusion into the cabin, posing a direct health hazard.
- A high number of recalls (24) and complaints (1858) indicate potential for costly repairs and ongoing issues.
- Inspect rear suspension components and the steering system thoroughly due to repeated recalls and reported failures.
- Be aware of widespread premature tire wear, particularly on Hankook Ventus S1 Noble 2 tires, requiring immediate inspection.
2017 Ford Explorer
Critical Failure Risk
Systemic issue where exhaust fumes enter the cabin, causing symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness. This is a critical safety concern requiring immediate inspection of exhaust system and cabin sealing.
Early detection can help you avoid a $956-$2,703 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing safety ratings above all else, provided they are willing to meticulously inspect and potentially address known issues.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2017 Ford Explorer Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Ford Explorer.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 18
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Most Common Issues
1. Structure & Body
Most reportedUsage: 318 reports
2. Structure & Body
Usage: 231 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (for 3.5L EcoBoost) or 5W-20 Oil (for other 3.5L engines), Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Cooling System - Inspect Exhaust System - Inspect Braking System - Lubricate and Inspect Steering Linkage - Lubricate and Inspect Ball and Suspension Joints - Lubricate and Inspect Drive-shafts
Est. shop cost: $150 - $250
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Full FAQ
Is the 2017 Ford Explorer reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Ford Explorer is 4.1/10. Reliability score is 4.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 24. Owner complaints: 1,858.
How practical is the 2017 Ford Explorer for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2017 Ford Explorer?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Ford Explorer is 5.5/10. Overall score is 5.5/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 6.8/10. Tuning 5.0/10. Practicality 4.8/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Ford Explorer?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (for 3.5L EcoBoost) or 5W-20 Oil (for other 3.5L engines), Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Cooling System - Inspect Exhaust System - Inspect Braking System - Lubricate and Inspect Steering Linkage - Lubricate and Inspect Ball and Suspension Joints - Lubricate and Inspect Drive-shafts at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,500 - $2,500. Repair prediction highlight: Exhaust System (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Ford Explorer?
Base MSRP is $45,355.
What engine is in the 2017 Ford Explorer?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2017 Ford Explorer use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Explorer, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Ford Explorer?
EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Ford Explorer?
9 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2017 Ford Explorer?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Explorer, seating capacity is 7.
What drivetrain does the 2017 Ford Explorer use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Explorer, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Ford Explorer?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2017 Ford Explorer good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 5/10. The 2017 Ford Explorer, while a capable SUV, presents a mixed bag for enthusiasts looking to enhance performance. The 3. Popular platforms: 3.5L EcoBoost Sport/Platinum.
What are the most common structure problems on the 2017 Ford Explorer?
Top complaint category: structure (318 reports, 17.1% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Ford Explorer?
This model year has 24 official safety campaigns listed.