Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Ford Explorer
The 2017 Ford Explorer presents notable issues, with 1,701 complaints and 14 recalls. Structural concerns, including roof rail detachment, and rear suspension problems are prevalent. Engine and electrical complaints also exist, but with limited data to confirm specific patterns. Evidence is thin for other problems, so remain vigilant during inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Ford Explorer has 14 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,704 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 #26V448000 Roof Rail Covers May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #26V101000 Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V685000 Engine Block Heater May Short Circuit and Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V347000 Driver and Passenger Door Trim May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V031000 Exterior A-Pillar Trim May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V537000 Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V316000 Roof Rail Covers May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V675000 Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V651000 Front Seat Frames May Have Exposed Sharp Edges NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V435000 Rear Suspension Toe Links May Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17E048000 Hub Unit Bearing may Allow Wheel Detachment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V530000 Loss of Power Assisted Steering NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V332000 Driver Seat Back Frame May Fail/FMVSS 202, 207 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V925000 Oil Leak from Turbocharger NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Structure 659 complaints
- Unknown or Other 373 complaints
- Engine 241 complaints
- Power Train 125 complaints
- Electrical System 94 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 77 complaints
Of the 1,704 complaints on file, 34 report a crash and 11 a fire; across all 1,704 complaints, owners report 51 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Rear suspension failures
How to check: Inspect rear suspension for any visible cracks or weaknesses.
Roof rail may detach
How to check: Examine roof rail covers for secure attachment and no loosening.
Turbocharger oil leak
How to check: Look for oil stains or leaks around the turbocharger.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Loud knocking or rough idle.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent check engine or related warnings.
- 03
Low-speed turns
What to check: Evaluate steering response and noise.
Red flag: Steering feels loose or makes noise.
- 04
City driving
What to check: Monitor for smooth shifting of transmission.
Red flag: Harsh or delayed gear changes.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check engine power and smoothness.
Red flag: Lag or hesitation during acceleration.
- 06
Braking
What to check: Assess for any brake noise or vibration.
Red flag: Pulsating brakes or grinding noise.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the roof rail issue been fixed?
- Were there any engine repairs done?
- Any suspension components replaced recently?
- Has the vehicle ever been in an accident?
- Are there any electrical issues you've noticed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history records
- Proof of recall repairs completed
- Accident history report
- Title and registration papers
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Ford Explorer at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 Ford Explorer? 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.