Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Ford Expedition
The 2017 Ford Expedition has some notable issues, particularly with the electrical and braking systems, as evidenced by multiple complaints and recalls related to these areas. The data suggests that the electrical system and brakes may require close inspection, with issues including rearview camera faults and brake fluid leaks. Limited evidence exists for other serious problems, but prospective buyers should proceed with careful inspection and test drives.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Ford Expedition has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 358 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #25V572000 Blank or Distorted Rearview Camera Image NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V236000 Loss of Brake Function from Brake Fluid Leak NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V648000 Blower Motor Failure May Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V150000 Brake Master Cylinder May Leak Fluid into Booster NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 93 complaints
- Power Train 51 complaints
- Service Brakes 43 complaints
- Unknown or Other 41 complaints
- Engine 38 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 35 complaints
Of the 358 complaints on file, 21 report a crash and 7 a fire; across all 358 complaints, owners report 27 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Brake fluid leaks
How to check: Inspect for fluid leaks around brake booster and master cylinder.
Rearview camera malfunction
How to check: Test rearview camera for distortion or blank image.
Front blower motor failure
How to check: Turn on HVAC and check for blower function.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or check engine light.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or warning lights
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check HVAC blower motor functionality.
Red flag: No air moving from vents
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Engage reverse to test rearview camera.
Red flag: Distorted or blank rearview image
- 04
Initial city driving
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noises.
Red flag: Spongy brakes or grinding noises
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for transmission shifts and engine performance.
Red flag: Harsh shifting or lack of power
- 06
Braking from highway speed
What to check: Check for steering wheel vibration or long stopping distance.
Red flag: Severe shudder or brake fade
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the brake master cylinder been replaced?
- Have there been issues with the rearview camera?
- Any problems with the HVAC blower motor?
- Have you experienced any electrical system issues?
- Are there any unresolved recalls?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle service records
- Recall repair confirmation
- Title and registration documents
- Accident history report
- Owner's manual
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Ford Expedition at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 Ford Expedition? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.