Owners of the 2017 Ford Explorer often praise its spacious cabin and confident towing capacity, but like any complex machine, this generation of the mid-size SUV is not without its flaws. While generally regarded as a solid model year, the 2017 lineup inherits some issues from previous generations and introduces a few new quirks that can catch owners off guard. Understanding these potential problems is essential for maintaining the vehicle’s value and ensuring safe operation on the road.
Electrical System Malfunctions
The most frequently reported category of 2017 Ford Explorer issues revolves around the vehicle’s sophisticated electrical architecture. Owners have documented random malfunctions of the infotainment system, where the screen freezes or simply fails to boot up. These glitches are often compounded by warning lights illuminating on the dashboard, indicating faults in the communication network between the vehicle’s modules.
More concerning than a frozen radio are the instances of sudden power loss or stalling. In some cases, the ignition switch or a related relay has been identified as the root cause, cutting power to critical systems while driving. Ford issued technical service bulletins to address these electrical gremlins, but persistent issues may require multiple visits to the dealership to diagnose the specific failing component.
Transmission and Shifting Concerns
Whether equipped with the six-speed automatic or the optional SelectShift transmission, some 2017 Explorers exhibit unsettling behavior in gear. Drivers have reported harsh shifting, particularly during low-speed maneuvers such as parking lot merges. This sensation feels like a sudden lurch or jolt, which can degrade the otherwise smooth ride quality the Explorer is known for.
Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive.
Slipping between gears under moderate acceleration.
Transmission temperature warnings triggering unnecessarily.
These symptoms often point to software calibration issues or low fluid levels, but they can also indicate the premature wear of internal clutches. Ignoring transmission problems can lead to more severe damage, making early diagnosis crucial.
Engine and Cooling System Issues
Under the hood, the 2017 Explorer’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 is a powerful unit, but it is not immune to failure. One of the more serious potential problems involves the failure of the plastic intake manifold bolts. Over time, these bolts can snap due to heat and vibration, causing a vacuum leak that results in a rough idle and decreased performance.
Additionally, the engine cooling system has been a point of contention. Some vehicles suffer from a failing coolant pump, which is located internally and is expensive to repair. Warning signs include the engine running hotter than normal, fluctuating temperature gauge readings, or the distinct smell of coolant inside the cabin. Regular maintenance of the cooling system can mitigate the risk of overheating and subsequent engine damage.
Interior Wear and Design Flaws
Beyond the mechanical gremlins, the 2017 Explorer faces criticism regarding interior durability. Owners have noted that the leather upholstery, particularly on the seating surfaces, can develop cracks and creases much sooner than expected. This is often attributed to the quality of the material used in the manufacturing process.
Another design flaw surfaces in the form of the center console. The layout can be confusing, and the cupholders are known to be unusually shallow. This design choice increases the likelihood of spilling coffee or soda onto the console, which can seep into the electronics and cause sticky buttons or short circuits.
Brake and Suspension Anomalies
Safety is paramount, and the 2017 Explorer generally performs well in this regard, but some owners have experienced anomalies in the braking system. A squealing or grinding noise when applying the brakes is often the first sign of trouble, indicating worn brake pads or damaged rotors. Because the Explorer is a heavy vehicle, maintaining strong and responsive brakes is non-negotiable.
