Many owners of the 2017 Ford Explorer have reported early failure of the PTU or "Power Transfer Unit" responsible for transferring power to all 4 wheels in AWD systems. The transmission noise manifests as "grinding" while driving or accelerating and often occurs at just below 60,000 miles. Cost to replace the PTU is extensive, averaging over $1,600 in parts and labor. Other noises experienced from the front of the Explorer or transmission include "whining". Fluid leaks have been found in and around the PTU as well as internal failures of the unit itself. In some cases, diagnosis revealed the need for a complete transmission replacement between 60,000-100,000 miles.
Jack
February 17, 2022
Don’t buy any Ford
Lindsay C
November 17, 2020
If the 2017 Ford Explorer is having issues with the transmission then you will notice several problems, including shaking or grinding while driving, a burning smell when the vehicle is on, the gears slipping when you shift, the shifter becoming stuck or non responsive, and leaking fluids. Leaks can be caused by heat wear over time, or road debris thrown against the vehicle may crack the lines and pan. Aside from leaks, the most obvious sign of a transmission issue will be transmission noise, either constant or when shifting. This should not be ignored as a blown transmission is very expensive to fix.
The Questions and Answers on this page are the statements and opinions of their respective authors and not VehicleHistory.com. VehicleHistory.com
does not research or authenticate any of the Answers provided.