2017 Ford Explorer

Introduction The 2017 Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV available with three engine and transmission options: a 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic transmission, a 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4 with a 6-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The base 3.5L V6 produces 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.3L EcoBoost generates 280 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-line 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivers 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque.

Owners of the 2017 Ford Explorer generally praise its powerful engines, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some owners have reported various issues with the vehicle, which are detailed below.

Engine

• 3.5L V6
  • Intake Manifold Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, reduced power
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
    • Recalls: 19V-130
  • Timing Chain Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling, loss of power, check engine light
    • Solution: Replace timing chain
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $3,500
    • Recalls: None Found
• 2.3L EcoBoost
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive oil consumption, whistling noise
    • Solution: Replace turbocharger
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
    • Recalls: 19V-133
• 3.5L EcoBoost V6
  • Head Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust, coolant loss
    • Solution: Replace head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 6-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power
    • Solution: Repair or replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• 10-Speed Automatic
  • Shifting Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or delayed shifting, transmission grinding
    • Solution: Update transmission software, replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise, uneven tire wear, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise, vibration, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace battery, diagnose electrical system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: 20V-167
• Electrical Short
  • Description/Symptoms: Blown fuses, flickering lights, check engine light
  • Solution: Repair or replace faulty wiring
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panel Gaps
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven gaps between body panels
  • Solution: Adjust or replace body panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, undercarriage
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not working, heating not working
  • Solution: Repair or replace HVAC system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Adjustment Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats not adjusting properly
  • Solution: Repair or replace seat motors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Ford Explorer has received mixed reviews from owners. While the vehicle offers powerful engines and a spacious interior, it has also been plagued by a number of issues ranging from engine and transmission failures to electrical and suspension problems. The severity and cost of these issues can be significant, so potential buyers should be aware of these potential risks before purchasing.