2017 FORD EXPLORER Unknown Or Other Problems

340 NHTSA complaints on file

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Unknown Or Other Issues in the 2017 FORD EXPLORER

340 unknown or other complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2017 FORD EXPLORER. Of these, 3 involved a crash, 2 involved a fire, and 14 resulted in injury.

340
Complaints
3
Crashes
2
Fires
14
Injuries
0
Deaths

All Unknown Or Other Complaints

#11717169 |
The lift gate glass shattered / exploded while sitting at a red light.
#11709585 |
The passenger side silver cover came off the top rail of my 2017 Ford Explorer. This SOULD be covered by Ford Safety Recall 21S22. I was told by my local Ford dealer my mileage was over the mileage limit of 152,000. My current mileage is 152,197.7; I can send a picture. Any item(s) flying off a vehicle should be a safety concern and covered by ANY recalls. Does Ford and/or NHTSA want to limit the age and/or mileage for safety recall? I was told by my local Ford dealership, this was a 'customer satisfaction' issue and only addressed if the problem was evident at the time of inspection. I've had my vehicle in for routine maintenance (oil change, tire rotation, etc) on a very regular basis. Normally I leave with instructions to fix any recalls on the vehicle. This was not addressed on previous maintenance instances because the broken top...
#11704865 |
Safety Recall Notice 24S02/NHTSA Recall 24V031 - Exterior A-pillar applique trim clip attachments may not be properly engaged due to improper assembly. Two-step solution is required: Ford dealer has to check to see if the clips are properly engaged or not, then, if not, must order the correct parts from Ford. I have been trying to correct this issue for over two years, but dealer says the parts are still on back order from Ford and repairs cannot be made.
#11702833 |
There is an odor in the passenger cabin. Seems unsafe
#11702305 |
Since Ford issued the first recall notice for Recall 24S02, I have been contacting my local Ford dealerships every few months to check whether the replacement parts were available. Each time, I am told the parts are still not in stock. As of today, multiple pieces of my vehicle have flown off while I was driving. This has become a serious safety hazard. Most recently, while driving on the freeway, a part detached from my car and the vehicles behind me had to swerve to avoid hitting it. I am increasingly concerned for my safety and the safety of others on the road. At this point, my vehicle does not feel safe to drive, but I have no alternative transportation. This appears to be a straightforward part for Ford to manufacture and replace, yet the delay has been unreasonable. Something needs to be done— I cannot continue driving a vehicle...
#11700271 |
Vehicle: 2017 Ford Explorer Issue: Hood paint peeling / paint delamination Component: Exterior / Structure / Body / Paint Safety Concern: Corrosion risk and impaired visibility Description: The paint on the hood of my 2017 Ford Explorer is peeling and delaminating down to the bare aluminum, starting at the front edge and spreading across the hood. This is a known and widespread issue on 2013–2018 Ford Explorers involving defective paint adhesion on aluminum body panels. Ford previously issued TSB 17-0062 and Customer Satisfaction Program 19N01 addressing this exact problem. My vehicle is experiencing the same failure pattern described in these bulletins. The paint peels off in sheets, exposing bare metal to corrosion. This creates a safety concern because corrosion in this area can weaken the structure, and loose/chipped paint can detach while driving. Ford dealers acknowledge the issue but state that the program has expired, even though the defect continues...
#11694498 |
The windshield outer trim pillar molding has flown off my vehicle twice while driving on the highway. This last time it almost hit someone on a motorcycle. What is Ford going to do to fix this?
#11693590 |
To whom it may concern, I am writing to formally file a complaint with ford. I request immediate assistance regarding multiple open recalls on my 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum. Despite multiple attempts to have these recalls addressed by my local Ford dealership and others, they have refused to perform all the necessary repairs. When I asked if they could at least order the required parts, I was informed that they would not, due to the parts being on back order with no timeline of when they would be available. This situation has become increasingly concerning, as one of the un repaired recalls has now led to water intrusion inside my vehicle, causing additional damage. Along with other recalls that are further causing damage. I depend on my vehicle daily, and the ongoing delays and lack of action from the dealership have only worsened the condition of my vehicle. At this...
#11693263 |
Exterior windshield A-pillar flew off on the highway and ford said the repair was suppose to be ready on the latter half of 2024. This repair is not being dealt with in a timely manor. Manufacturer Recall Number 24S0. NHTSA Recall Number24V031.
#11690175 |
UNKNOWN. The rubber seal for the windshield wiper cowl is completely deteriorating. This is a known common problem as the ford dealership parts department stated. With this rubber seal deteriorating its possible for wind to get under the cowling and blow it off while driving down the road causing a hazard for surrounding drivers.
#11688865 |
It is known that for the specific year make and model that the water pump goes out around 100,000 miles. This water pump was built as an internal water pump, which is not typical for most cars. in order to fix this part, the engine has to be taken out and lots of parts have to be disassembled Just to get to it. The part Itself is fairly cheap, but the labor cost thousands of dollars due to where it is located. Ford knowingly built this car and put that pump where it is at and therefore should be reliable to pay the cost when it is so common that this part goes out around 100,000 miles. if it is a known issue that occurs on these models frequently then it should become a recall because a failing water pump can cause significant issues within the engine and make the...
#11688684 |
A buzzing started coming from my front dash. My mechanic pointed out the molding/trim on the windshield is basically disintegrating because of cheap quality materials.
#11687123 |
Windshield cowl grille damage (along with A-pillar molding trim damage) causing loose parts and wind with rattling sound. Cowl should also be included and replaced as part of recall.
#11686693 |
The B pillar trim pieces from the recall have not been fixed. They are, in fact, detached and do make noise while driving. I have called fords in the area multiple times and they do not know when they will have parts.
#11686703 |
I recently found out about a Ford recall regarding the backup cameras malfunctioning which did not include my vehicle even though my vehicle is showing the unsafe defect. The backup camera goes fuzzy/glitchy as well as black sometimes while backing up.
#11685236 |
in reference to NHTSA Recall No: 25V347 & Manufacturer Recall No:25S53. according to ford my vin does not apply due to the dates within the recall. both of my B pillar outside trim have been separated from the vehicle, just like it states in the recall. i replaced the passenger side last year, now my drivers side is blown off. due to the sticky tape holding them on. when i asked ford they said the recall is only for vehicles manufactured from Chicago from 6/25/15 thru 4/5/17. Mine was manufactured on 28 May 2017. so my vehicle does not apply. however, i find it odd that both mine have failed just like it says in the recall but yet my vehicle does not apply. seems fishy. i think the dates of this defect should be expanded and thus allowing my vehicle to be covered under the recall and ford pay...
#11684803 |
I am unable to renew my registration due to not being able to complete / repair the recalls. Dealer does not have the parts for the repair therefore my vehicle will not pass inspection for the renewal. This has caused many troubles and issues, I am being pulled over by police and constantly worried they might tow my vehicle for expired registration.
#11682664 |
Over Memorial Day weekend 2025, the A-pillar exterior trim on my 2017 Ford Explorer detached and flew off while I was driving. This matches the Ford recall (NHTSA Recall No. 25V347, Ford Recall No. 25S53) covering A-pillar trim detachment. Since then, I have been waiting for the replacement part. My dealership confirmed my Explorer is covered under the recall but said they do not know when repair parts will be available. As of late August 2025 (over three months later), no repair has been offered and no estimated timeline has been provided. Safety/Function Concerns: The missing A-pillar trim causes a loud whistling noise while driving, which is distracting and could impact driver focus. Detached trim is a road hazard to other drivers and pedestrians if it flies off while in motion. The vehicle now appears defective and unfinished, raising concerns about quality and value. Attempts to Resolve: Contacted my Ford...
#11677949 |
Was making loud buzzing noises and cracking noise while driving. The whole bottom is now gone. This been going on about 1-2 years now, when this all started. Need all the pillars replaced immediately. I drive to work in this vehicle and it's a 40-minute commute one way.
#11677725 |
About 4 years ago it was a recall to the roof rail trim disconnection, which mine was totally fine but since it was a recall I took it to the dealer to be replace. Now while I was driving on the highway I saw the right trim flight away. I called the dealer that replaced to see what they can do since I feel this is a continue problem a defective part. I even show them the left side is coming off but their answer was that it was a recall part and the part was already replaced it and is nothing they can do now. I really feel they should be responsible to replaced it again since it is a recurring problem. I didn't have any issue with the original one and the one they replaced both are defective.
#11676659 |
The windshield trim is unattaching piece by piece. There is been a recall issued in January 2024. The dealership still does not have parts to make the repair over a year later. Manufacturer Recall Number24S02 NHTSA Recall Number24V031 Recall StatusRecall Incomplete, remedy not yet available
#11674175 |
While driving a certain speed i hear noise in main windshield area
#11673251 |
This pertains to the B-Pillar trim recall. It should be noted that not only does the trim fall off but if it is the trim with the entry keypad, that can cause a short circuit that effects other parts of the car operation. Recently this happened to this vehicle and a fuse blew under the drivers side dash fuse 11 5 amp fuse. This fuse blows and the rear hatch will no longer open. We called about this in June when this happened and the dealer said it was unrelated to the trim that fell off and they would charge us $600 to look at it. After finding the same issue on Youtube and the fix posted we purchased the part and installed ourself for $50. This complaint is stating that the recall needs to have the liftgate included as a symptom.
#11673156 |
Front window trim/ A pillar detached while driving on October 18,2024. Contacted dealership for replacement at the end of October 2024, and each month following, they brought vehicle in for inspection but have never replaced the trim piece. It has now been 9 months, I have called the dealer every month to follow up and have been told every time they still do not have the part to fix it. I am concerned that the trim on the other side of the car could fly off and cause damage to my vehicle or others.
#11671991 |
The following is a letter I sent to Ford. I've yet to hear back from them. This is a picture of what happened in my 2017 Explorer on Thursday, June 5, 2025. As I unlocked and got into my car, I realized the seat was moving forward. I tried to get out of the seat, but it was difficult because the space was closing in. I managed to squeeze out of the space before it totally closed me in and pinned me between the seat and steering wheel. As you can see from the picture, the seat is as close to the steering wheel and console as possible. The steering wheel was 7 inches from the seatback and 7 inches from the seat bottom. The seat was 2 inches from the console. This is extremely dangerous. This is not the first time this has happened. This has occurred at least...
#11670744 |
In my 2017 Ford Explorer, that backup camera is experiencing issues that sound related to the current recall on 2021-2024 Ford Explorers. The image is all distorted, the backup assist lines are not present, the screen will go black or grey with distortion.
#11668836 |
Back up camera fails to operate at times when vehicle is in reverse. Potential for backing collision or fatality.
#11666675 |
Display screen/Navigation screen is flashing continuously. This is affecting the use of the back up camera which could potentially cause damage to vehicles or persons. This also is affecting thr use of hands free operation.
#11664999 |
faulty front grill
#11663525 |
I am submitting this complaint regarding a recurring turbocharger issue in my 2017 Ford Explorer Sport (VIN: [XXX] ). In April 2024, I was forced to replace the turbocharger system at a cost of approximately $2,500. Despite the repair, my vehicle continues to have serious performance issues. Most recently, the check engine light returned, and a diagnostic scan from O’Reilly Auto Parts showed error code P219A – Bank 1 Air/Fuel Ratio Imbalance. This code indicates that the engine is still not functioning correctly—pointing to a likely underlying or unresolved defect. During the initial failure, oil leaked extensively into the engine bay and burned off in thick white smoke while I was driving. It was a serious safety concern, and the cause was consistent with Ford’s existing recall for this engine (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V925000), which was limited to the Police Interceptor Utility model despite the civilian Sport version using the...
#11662148 |
Water pump has gone out, and is a known issue with the explorers, plus they have made these very difficult to to replace and require partial engine tear down.
#11662151 |
There has been a long standing recall on the pillars for over a year, however ford continuously does not have the parts in stock. I have been awaiting repair for over a year with no date in sight.
#11660781 |
The windshield trim on my 2017 Ford exploer which is the actual recall on this vehicle blew off while traveling on a major highway slamming into my windshield and into the next lane just missing another vehicle causing them to swerve violently to avoid being hit by the windshield trim! I have been Communicating with the dealership where I had purchase my vehicle from the time I first received my recall notice, what possibly 5-6 months. Now I am concerned that the other one may do the same and fly off and the resolt being worse!
#11660160 |
Engine block timing plate cover has a defect crack in it causing an oil leak and fire hazard.
#11656477 |
My parking pawl failed. Other 2017 explorers have the recall but mine doesn’t? Dealership says mines not effected but it broke? Hardly seams fair. I was able to jump back in and stop it before it rolled out of the driveway and almost hit my neighbors.
#11654778 |
Vehicle was inspected for 24S02 a-pillar recall in October. Nothing is updated or addressed if the a-pillars pass inspection. that closed the recall. now, the a-pillars have become loose as stated in ford's letter to the owner "may become detached" and Ford is saying that the recall no longer will cover this because it passed the initial inspection 4 months ago.
#11653234 |
The sunroof gets stuck in the tilted open position and sunshades will not close. This creates an unsafe condition if it starts to rain. Cannot secure the vehicle. This problem is very common and there are many complaints and how to fix videos on the internet. I contacted Ford At first they were cooperative and offered to help with the repair. Then suddenly they refused to help with the repair. This left me with a 1200.00 bill at the dealer. It is a common failure, it was occurring on the previous model year and was not addressed, it requires proprietary tools to fix. There is low incentive to Ford to fix if they can make a profit from the failure. just one online example there are many videos and how to repair post and complaints: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
#11650313 |
The Roof trim piece flew off while driving and almost hit the car behind me. The other side looks loose as while. I know the A pillars have an open recall on them as while but they said those parts arent available. I already talked with the dealer but they said no recall is available for this Roof trim and I think there should be.
#11649591 |
Manufacturer Recall Number24S02 NHTSA Recall Number24V031 Recall StatusRecall Incomplete, remedy not yet available
#11649205 |
The A pillar trim has detached from the windshield while I was driving on the highway, it almost hit the car behind me. There was no warning before it became detached. When calling to see if parts were available I was told that they had been on back order for a year and they had no idea when parts would be available
#11648815 |
Engine coolant leak. Come to find out it is the internal water pump, which several mechanics stated is a "common motor design flaw" with these vehicles. The repair for this is $3500! Not a small amount for a average person with low income. If Ford is aware of this common issue, why is nothing being done to protect their customers like me. I'd like to hear from someone in regards to this, as I have always been a loyal Ford consumer, but this will change after this.
#11645302 |
the transmission has gone out for a second time 3 years ago the transmission was replaced as part of fords customer satisfaction and after 3 years of driving the car started acting weird stalling or not wanting to go- now it will not start after taking to the ford dealership they informed me it was the same problem they had previously fixed, and it was no longer under warranty I would have to pay for a whole new transmission- to be honest I still owe money on this car and could not afford a repair of over 7000 -It was already fixed just 3 years ago how is the Transmisson faulty for a second time? there needs to be recall on this part/
#11643597 |
I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET MY VEHICLE FIXED FOR SAFETY RECALL 24S02 FOR MONTHS AND THE DEALER KEEPS TELLING ME THEY DO NOT HAVE THE PARTS. I CANNOT USE MY CAR TO GO ON TRIP OR ON FREEWAYS BECAUSE OF THE WINDSHIELD NOISE AND I AM AFRAID OF SOMETHING COMING OFF AND CAUSING A WRECK.
#11636365 |
Keyless entry panel on driver's side continues to fall off while driving, hanging by wires, which then blow fuses. Lift gate ajar warning comes on and then unable to open/close rear lift gate. Indoor overhead lighting remains on due to "liftgate ajar" even though liftgate is not ajar. This is a Safety hazard, panel could fly off during driving. Took to dealer, misdiagnosed as liftgate latch malfunction. Paid to get latch replaced and one week later, keyless entry panel fell off again and liftgate ajar warning came up and unable to open or close liftgate and interior lighting remains on.
#11635059 |
Delay in available parts. Both A-pillar trim parts have detached from vehicle. Passengers side 6/2024, Drivers side 12/24.
#11633904 |
Driving down the highway and the roof rail flew off almost hitting the car behind me upon pulling over i discovered the roof rail flew off. I called the dealership and they told me that vehicle is over 150k miles and the recall was voided. I don’t remember seeing that.
#11633149 |
For over a year the windshield of my car had a “rattle” or wind-like noise. I figured this was due to the weather stripping around the windshield degrading and falling off. I heard about the recall and the very next day I was driving down the interstate and the plastic piece (A-Pillar) flew off and the car behind me swerved to miss the piece. A day or so after this occurred, large rains came through our area which resulted in water entering my vehicle. I took my car to the dealership a day or 2 later where they had to inspect to see if the vehicle met the recall and order the parts. This was over 3 months ago. I called Ford about 1 month after my vehicle was inspected and spoke to a representative who informed me that the parts are in stock and are being shipped out upon...
#11631432 |
Water leaking in the drivers side frame that goes down the inner column by the dash onto the floor board, leaks above the driver visor, and in the back frame in the trunk of driver side. I have had it checked over by a Ford dealer twice and they claim it was my sun roof-which it is not. When I tried to have it checked again with a non Ford mechanic, it’s been too cold and rainy so the problem cannot be found. It has gotten worse in my car, water damage to the dash and I get condensation that forms on the inside of my windshield. Thought it occurred due to the windshield guard cover recall but that isn’t the case.
#11627425 |
Rear toe links, rear alignment is off. Dealership said they can’t fix it. My tires are wearing incredibly fast.
#11616289 |
Hello there’s. Since I got the recall letter I keep going and calling to the Central ford dealership to replace the windshield molding, they keep saying that the moldings aren’t available but I know that they have been replaced them. My left moldings is very loose, I’m afraid that it will fall causing an accident. Could you do something about it? I just went a week ago. They said that they will call me when they get them. They been saying that since the first time Thank you.

Other 2017 FORD EXPLORER Problem Areas

Structure 331 complaints Structurebody 239 complaints Engine 220 complaints Power Train 104 complaints Electrical System 78 complaints Steering 70 complaints Wheels 58 complaints Engine And Engine Cooling 53 complaints Suspension 45 complaints Fuelpropulsion System 41 complaints Visibilitywiper 38 complaints Air Bags 31 complaints Service Brakes 21 complaints Vehicle Speed Control 20 complaints Seat Belts 17 complaints Seats 16 complaints Tires 16 complaints Visibilitywindshieldcritical Fasteners 14 complaints Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust System 12 complaints Structurebodyroof And Pillars 12 complaints Exterior Lighting 8 complaints Power Trainautomatic Transmissiontorque Converter 8 complaints Visibilitywindshield 7 complaints Engine And Engine Coolingcooling Systempump 6 complaints Structurebodydoor 6 complaints Fuel System Gasoline 5 complaints Tirestreadbelt 5 complaints Electronic Stability Control Esc 4 complaints Back Over Prevention Warnings 3 complaints Electrical Systeminstrument Panelspeedometerodometer 3 complaints Forward Collision Avoidance Adaptive Cruise Control 3 complaints Forward Collision Avoidance Warnings 3 complaints Lane Departure Blind Spot Detection 3 complaints Power Trainautomatic Transmission 3 complaints Visibilitysunmoon Roof Assembly 3 complaints Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systemmanifoldheadermufflertail Pipe 2 complaints Forward Collision Avoidance Automatic Emergency Braking 2 complaints Latcheslockslinkages 2 complaints Latcheslockslinkagesdoorslatch 2 complaints Suspensionrear 2 complaints Visibilityglass Siderear 2 complaints Air Bagsfrontaldriver Clockspringspiral Cassette 1 complaint Back Over Prevention 1 complaint Back Over Prevention Sensing System Camera 1 complaint Electrical Systemignition 1 complaint Electrical Systemwiringfuses And Circuit Breakers 1 complaint Electrical Systemwiringrelayssolenoids 1 complaint Engine And Engine Coolingcooling Systemradiator Assembly 1 complaint Engine And Engine Coolingengineoillubricationpump 1 complaint Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Control 1 complaint Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Controlcatalytic Convertor 1 complaint Equipment 1 complaint Equipmentapplianceair Conditioner 1 complaint Equipmentelectricalinfotainment 1 complaint Lane Departure Assist 1 complaint Latcheslockslinkageshatchbackliftgatelock 1 complaint Power Trainaxle Assembly 1 complaint Seat Belts Rearotherbuckle Assembly 1 complaint Seat Beltsfrontbuckle Assembly 1 complaint Service Brakes Airdisccaliper 1 complaint Steeringlinkagestie Rod Assembly 1 complaint Structurebodydoorhandleexterior 1 complaint Structurebodydoorhinge And Attachments 1 complaint Structurebodyhood 1 complaint Structurebodytrunk Lid 1 complaint Structureinterior Panelsdoor 1 complaint Suspensionrearaxlenon Powered Axle Assembly 1 complaint Tether Lower Anchor On Car Seat Or Vehicle 1 complaint Tirespressure Monitoring And Regulating Systems 1 complaint Vehicle Speed Controlaccelerator Pedal 1 complaint Vehicle Speed Controlthrottle 1 complaint Visibility 1 complaint Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac System 1 complaint Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac Systemcondensorevaporator 1 complaint Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac Systemrear Window 1 complaint Wheelslugsnutsboltsstuds 1 complaint
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