The 2017 Explorer lasts over 250,000 miles with minor issues including alignment and tire wear problems. At $24,812 – 37,810 it’s a great value for all its features.
2017 Ford Explorer: Key Points
- Reliability ratings are decent with some exhaust issues. Buyers should avoid 2013–2016 models with engine problems and go with a 2017-2021.
- Three engine options: an efficient 4-cylinder and two more powerful V6 choices.
- Fuel economy is good at up to 22 MPG combined.
- Safety scores are great, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
- We recommend the 2017 Explorer since there are fewer problems than other years, and a lot of advanced technology for the cost.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
Top Critics Reviews
- Consumer Reports finds the Explorer to be a very practical SUV with a good ride, but has some lower owner satisfaction ratings.
- Edmunds gives the Explorer a 4.5/5, finding a lot of high-tech features, but has cramped seats in the second and third row.
- Kelley Blue Book gives the Explorer a 3.8/5, noting advanced safety features, but is not as roomy as other SUVs.
What Problems Does the 2017 Ford Explorer Have?
Problems with the Explorer include premature tire wear, exhaust fumes in the cabin, and the rear window shattering. The newer 2018 models have fewer issues, but prices are about $4,000 higher.
Premature tire wear is the most common complaint, happening in under 20,000 miles. There are two sources to the problem including alignment issues, and cheap tires used from the factory. Replacing the tires and getting an alignment is about $1,200.
Exhaust fumes in the cabin are another issue with Explorers at around 12,000 miles. The exhaust fumes issue has been a problem across models starting in 2011 and can be a sign of an exhaust leak.
Shattering rear windows are another common problem on some vehicles. The glass is weaker than normal and slight chips can cause the entire window to shatter. A replacement is about $350.
There are 3 recalls, average for an SUV. Recalls include fuel pressure sensors, back seats, and roof rail covers. The most serious recall is for the fuel pressure sensor since a leak increases the risk of a fire.
How Long Will the 2017 Ford Explorer Last?
A properly maintained 2017 Explorer should be able to last 250,000 miles, which is similar to a Yukon or Expedition. Repair Pal estimates annual maintenance costs to be costly at $651 per year.
As an Explorer reaches over 100,000 miles owners should prepare to replace serpentine belts for $100, clutch slave cylinders costing $600, and battery cables which cost $500.
There have been a few minor inconveniences, but no mechanical problems at all. One of the doors is misaligned and sometimes the electronics are finicky.
We have not had any issues with our ford explorer. Always reliable and heats up very quickly in the winter. This is important to me!
Yes it is reliable. There are no problems that are major. I think that the foot heating could be better.
Very reliable we have had no issues with the vehicle. We make sure we get it serviced on a regular periods.
This vehicle (so far) has been extremely reliable. It is been driven to Colorado twice, up to the top of pike peak, been through the rugged roads of the up. Excellent.
I have maintained regular oil changes on the explorer and I have yet to encounter any issues. It is starts reliably in cold and hot weather, the ac/heater work wonderfully and the AWD is perfect.
I have had a couple of recalls for minor things, other than that, it is a very reliable vehicle. I do not know what else to write.
There are no problems in its reliability. The problems are gas mileage and an inability to keep the interior clean.
How Much is the 2017 Ford Explorer Worth?
Blue book prices range from $24,812 – 37,810, making it more affordable than a Tahoe or Sequoia. When new, the price range was $31,660 to $53,235. Depreciation is good, at around 6% of the current value per year.
What Are the Models & Specs?
Base is the entry-level model with:
- 18-Inch Aluminum Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Cruise Control
- Power Driver’s Seat
XLT is a very popular model, adding:
- Optional Fuel-Efficient 4-Cylinder
- Black Exterior Trim
Limited offers good upgrades including:
- Leather Seating
- Power Adjustable Pedals
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
Sport is a performance-oriented model with:
- 20-Inch Wheels
- More Powerful V6 Engine
- Sport Suspension
Platinum is the luxury model and has:
- Premium Leather Seating
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Adaptive Cruise Control
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is very good in the Explorer compared to some other large SUVs with all new technology added for 2017, the next redesign is for the 2019 model.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with 4.2-inch screen, Sync, and 6-speaker stereo.
- Optional upgrades include an 8-Inch touchscreen infotainment system, satellite radio, and a 9-speaker stereo system.
- Standard safety features include a rearview camera, anti-lock brakes, stability control and airbags. Collision warning, lane keep assist and blind spot monitoring are all optional.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is similar to other SUVs with the base engines, but the most powerful V6 is quick. The largest engine takes the Explorer from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 6.3 seconds.
- The base engine is a decently powered 3.5L V6 with 290 horsepower.
- An efficient upgrade is the 2.3L turbo 4-cylinder which has 280 horsepower.
- Found on the Sport and Platinum models is the powerful 3.5L turbo V6 making 365 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Explorer?
The 2017 Ford Explorer fills a unique space between midsize and full-size SUVs, being larger than a Grand Cherokee, but smaller than a Tahoe. Passenger room is cramped in the back seats, and there’s only room for young children in the third row.
Cargo space is good with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 43.9 behind the second, and 81.7 with all seats folded flat.
How Does the 2017 Ford Explorer Compare to Other SUVs?
The highest-rated full size SUV is the more expensive Chevy Suburban. Where the Suburban comes out ahead is with more passenger room and a higher towing capacity, but the Explorer is more fun to drive. If you don’t need the extra passenger room, the Explorer is better.
Another rival is the Toyota Sequoia, which is also more expensive. The Sequoia has better long-term reliability, but the Explorer has more up-to-date technology. We recommend the Sequoia since the engines last longer.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Ford Explorer a Good SUV?
Yes, the Explorer is a good SUV. We have received many positive owner reviews mentioning comfortable captain’s seats in the second row, smooth suspension, and a fun driving experience.
Overall, 2017 is a good year for the Explorer fixing problems found on the 2016 model, but there are fewer complaints on the newer 2018.
Yes, it is 3 row seating but does not feel sluggish and too large to drive and park. The v6 ecoboost engine is plenty of power and AWD works excellent. No considerable issues with the car so far.
Yes! The ford explorer is a very family friendly vehicle! We are a family of four and it fits us great!
Yes the car holds up well. Fits my family size and reliable. I love apple CarPlay and the exterior look.
Yes a very good driving vehicle. It has a lot of features and the ride is very smooth. I would recommend this vehicle to family's for the size. This vehicle is also very dependable.
It is an excellent vehicle. Very roomy and comfortable. The car drives very nice, quiet. You have a sense of security while behind the wheel. I love this car. Best car I have ever purchased.
It is an all season vehicle that I feel comfortable and safe driving, no matter the weather conditions. Snow, rain, wind... I am safe in this vehicle.
I love my ford explorer! Gives me a sense of safety and is good for traveling the highways of the USA visiting national parks.
It is adequate for my needs. It doesn't break down and I can count on it’s performance in the city or mountains.