The 2017 Explorer is mid-5th-gen and is best known for the long-running NHTSA exhaust/CO investigation that ultimately concluded with a Customer Satisfaction Program (19N03). 3.5L EcoBoost models can suffer coolant intrusion into the cylinders. The 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 is the most reliable engine choice for this year.
Exhaust manifold leak / CO investigation and EcoBoost coolant intrusion. Confirm CSP 19N03 has been performed and avoid neglected 3.5L EcoBoost units.
NHTSA PE17-008 investigation closed with Ford CSP 19N03. Cracked manifolds and leaks allow exhaust into cabin. Police interceptor variants got dedicated buyback work. Confirm CSP completion before purchase.
View P0420 Diagnosis →Cracked cylinder head or block allows coolant into combustion chamber. White smoke, misfire, then catastrophic failure. Sport and Platinum trims with the 3.5L EcoBoost only. NA 3.5L Ti-VCT is unaffected.
View P0316 Diagnosis →Torque converter shudder. TSB 17-0149 covers a Mercon LV fluid + reflash procedure. If neglected, full transmission replacement is common at 100K-130K.
View P0741 Diagnosis →AWD models. PTU has no factory drain plug and the fluid cooks. Whining noise, then bearing failure. Aftermarket fluid service every 50K is the only prevention.
View P183B Diagnosis →NHTSA 17V-073: door latch may not fully engage. Free fix at dealer. Verify completion.
Run free diagnosis →Sync 3 occasionally locks up or loses Bluetooth. Master reset usually clears it. Software updates available via OTA or USB.
View U0100 Diagnosis →Run a free AI diagnosis tailored to your exact vehicle. Get the most likely cause and repair estimate in under 30 seconds.
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Always run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before purchase. Major recalls on this year:
Documented Technical Service Bulletins, class-action settlements, and warranty extensions for the 2017 Ford Explorer:
Only with documented service. Verify CSP 19N03, PTU fluid service, and avoid the 3.5L EcoBoost unless it has documented coolant intrusion repair. The NA 3.5L V6 is the safer pick.
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If your 2017 Explorer is throwing a check engine light, these are the codes most often associated with the problems above. Click any code for full diagnosis steps and typical repair costs.
Below average. Exhaust manifold leaks, EcoBoost coolant intrusion, and PTU failure are well-documented. The naturally-aspirated 3.5L V6 is the most reliable choice.
Ford's Customer Satisfaction Program addressing the long-running exhaust/CO complaints. Free inspection and repair at any Ford dealer for affected VINs.
Yes - the 3.5L EcoBoost specifically. The naturally-aspirated 3.5L Ti-VCT and 2.3L EcoBoost are unaffected. Watch for white smoke and misfire codes.
The 6F50 typically reaches 130K-180K with regular Mercon LV fluid changes. Without service, shudder begins around 60K-80K and full failure at 100K-130K is common.
Only with documented PTU service, CSP 19N03 completed, and ideally the 3.5L Ti-VCT (not the EcoBoost). Walk away from any with coolant intrusion symptoms.
The 3.5L Ti-VCT naturally-aspirated V6. It avoids the EcoBoost coolant intrusion and turbo wear. Less power but far fewer expensive failures.