AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2017 Ford Explorer
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $7,500–$12,000
The 2017 Ford Explorer faces structural and rear suspension issues, recalled multiple times. Numerous owner complaints about structure and engine increase concerns. However, persistent reliability in other systems balances this, granting it an average rating.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| rear suspension | 50,000–80,000 miles | $500–$1,000 | common |
| engine cooling | 60,000–100,000 miles | $300–$700 | common |
| body trim | 30,000–60,000 miles | $100–$300 | common |
| turbocharger tubes | 70,000–100,000 miles | $600–$1,200 | occasional |
| heat shield | 40,000–70,000 miles | $150–$350 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil change every 5,000 miles
- Brake inspection every 10,000 miles
- Coolant flush every 50,000 miles
- Transmission fluid change every 60,000 miles
- Air filter replacement yearly
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Vibrations in rear suspension
- Heat shield rattling
- Coolant leaks near turbo
- Loose body trim
- Excessive engine noise
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/18/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.