2017 Ford Explorer Problems
Shopping for a used 2017 Ford Explorer? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Based on 1,629 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Structural Problems the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2017 Ford Explorer has 1,629 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Structural Problems.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
Free preview · Full report from $12.95.
2017 Ford Explorer Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 7 2017 Ford Explorer trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 7 trims analysed.
2017 Ford Explorer Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program2 variants tested — showing 2017 Ford Explorer 4 DR SUV AWDOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
17.4% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
17.4% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2017 Ford Explorer has 1,629 owner complaints, 32 crash-related complaints, and 13 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Structural Problems. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Ford
- Model
- Explorer
- Model year
- 2017
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 1,629
- Crash-related complaints
- 32
- Safety recall campaigns
- 13
- Top reported component
- Structural Problems
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 20
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 17 / 24
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2017 Ford Explorer problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Structural Problems
Uncategorized Issues
Engine Problems
Complaint patterns center on Structural Problems, Uncategorized Issues, Engine Problems. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2017 Ford Explorer?
The 2017 Ford Explorer shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2017 Ford Explorer
Inspection Focus
- Inspect for structural problems, such as body integrity or frame issues.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for engine and transmission repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect for structural problems, such as body integrity or frame issues.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for engine and transmission repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2017 Ford Explorer, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on 1629 consumer complaints for the 2017 Ford Explorer, the data suggests that structural problems are the most frequently reported issue, followed by uncategorized issues and engine problems. Crash-related complaints are relatively low at 32, but the overall confidence in this data is low due to its consumer-submitted nature.
- Structural Problems account for the highest number of complaints at 628.
- Engine Problems are the third most reported component with 306 complaints.
- Transmission/Drivetrain issues total 119 complaints.
- Structural Problems
- Engine Problems
- Transmission/Drivetrain issues
Full breakdown
All 2017 Ford Explorer complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2017 Ford Explorer. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structural Problems | 628 | 7 | 2 | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 358 | 3 | 2 | — | |
| Engine Problems | 306 | 7 | 3 | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 119 | 4 | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 87 | 3 | 5 | — | |
| Steering Defects | 74 | 1 | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 59 | 1 | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 51 | 4 | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 43 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 42 | 1 | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 32 | 8 | — | — | |
| Visibility | 30 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 22 | 6 | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 22 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 21 | 2 | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 19 | 1 | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 16 | 2 | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 9 | — | 1 | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 8 | 2 | 1 | — | |
| Back Over Prevention | 6 | 1 | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Lane Departure | 4 | — | 1 | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Tether | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Lower Anchor (On Car Seat Or Vehicle) | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Air | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2017 Ford Explorer. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the A-pillar trim on both sides of the windshield started to detach. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (Structure) and 26V101000 (Suspension…
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V347000 (Structure) and 24V031000 (Structure); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reason…
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH on the highway, the vehicle hesitated and stalled. No warning light was illuminated. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed,…
A and b trim pillar pieces are loose and I just lost one going down the interstate. It is also causing my car to leak when it rains. Recall was issued over a year ago and still no parts available to fix it.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (Structure) and 25V347000 (Structure); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that the exterior A-pillar trims and trims …
Filing a complaint as the nhtsa.gov website suggests: "If the manufacturer has failed or is unable to remedy this safety recall for your vehicle in a timely manner ... file an online complaint with NHTSA" It has been over 27 months and I have contacted my dealership numerous ti…
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the clips for the B-pillar trims on both sides of the vehicle were fractured, and the B-pillar trims were hanging off the vehicle. The contact then received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V347000 (Structure)…
The trim on both A pillar and B pillar are coming off. When I spoke with Ford about a year ago they informed me of one recall with another coming. One of the trip pieces broke off in an automatic car wash. I was able to go back and get it, but have cut my hand on door multiple ti…
Coolant keeps going low. No visible leaking spots. Been to 2 mechanic's. Both said Ford defective engine block. Coolant leaking into cylinder 1. Recommended engine replacement. Check engine light. Verified 300 # codes. Misfire. Foul and rough start ups. Been on 4 or 5 months.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (Structure) and 25V347000 (Structure); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable a…
My 2017 Ford Explorer suddenly started vibrating intensely whenever I am at a stop or start slowing down. Episodes of hesitation when attempting to take off from a start with significant rpm surges. I am told I need to have my torque converter replaced. My vehicle has 84,697 mile…
I am reporting a serious safety concern with my 2017 Ford Explorer. The vehicle currently has approximately 93,752 miles and has become increasingly unreliable and unsafe to operate. On April 9, 2026, while my wife was driving home from work, the vehicle overheated, creating a da…
Vehicle experienced white exhaust smoke due to oil entering the exhaust system, caused by turbocharger failure. This led to contamination and failure of all O2 sensors, requiring full replacement, along with replacement of both turbochargers. The radiator also failed and had to b…
No impact shattering of rear window. I entered the car and closed the driver’s side door when I heard the window shatter.
The rear toe link arm is not adjustable, so I can't get it aligned. It has caused a clunking noise when I turn and everytime I align my front end, it does not last.
1 WATERPUMP FAILED AND LEAKED WATER INTO MY OIL AND BLEW MY ENGINE. THERE WAS NO WARNING. MY CAR HAD NO POWER AND I COULD NOT DRIVE. I WAS ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE WATERPUMP IS NOT A RECALL BUT THERE ARE ALOT OF PEOPLE WITH THE SAME ISSUE ON THE SAME MODEL . THE ENGINE WAS RE…
We were driving on the highway and the b pillar trim flew off. It did hit another vehicle but didn’t cause any damage. I cannot use my keyless entry and current am driving with duct tape. This happened in August 2025 and I have spoken to local dealership and ford customer service…
Oil is leaking onto my spark plugs and fouling them out. Also took my car into dealership and parts are not available for the recall for the rear toe links.
In regards to recall 24V031 and 25V347, both of my A Pilars have flown off my car while driving. Luckily no damage was caused but the replacement parts are still not available. The recall is from 2024 and 2025. Does it really take over a year for replacement parts?
I purchased 2017 ford explorer from Mark Ficken. It was still under warranty. The transmission went out in a week something with the torque converter. They replaced the transmission free of charge. Two years two months outside of the warranty the transmission fails again due to t…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2017 Ford Explorer.
Safety recalls
2017 Ford Explorer recalls
13 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2017 Ford Explorer. 13 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
SEATS
SUSPENSION:REAR
WHEELS:HUB
STEERING
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
STRUCTURE:BODY
SUSPENSION:REAR
SUSPENSION:REAR
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
STRUCTURE:BODY
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
SUSPENSION:REAR
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2017 Ford Explorer buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2017 Ford Explorer reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 1,629 owner complaints, 32 crash-related complaints, and 13 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2017 Ford Explorer shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2017 Ford Explorer?▾
#1: Structural Problems (628 complaints). #2: Uncategorized Issues (358 complaints). #3: Engine Problems (306 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2017 Ford Explorer?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2017 Ford Explorer?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2017 Ford Explorer, NHTSA complaints include 32 crash-related reports and 10 fire reports out of 1,629 total complaints. 49 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2017 Ford Explorer have any recalls?▾
Yes. 13 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2017 Ford Explorer. A major recall area is SEATS. 13 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2017 Ford Explorer?▾
The 2017 Ford Explorer shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Structural Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Ford Explorer reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2017 Ford Explorer based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.