2017 Ford Explorer Review: Good Year For The Affordable Long-Lasting SUV

Alex Showalter
Mar 3, 2022

The 2017 Explorer lasts over 250,000 miles with minor issues including alignment and tire wear problems. At $24,812 – 37,810 it’s a great value for all its features.

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likeFilled The Good
Performance is great for an SUV, the infotainment system is easy to use and the suspension is comfortable.
dislikeFilled The Bad
The back seats are relatively cramped, visibility is poor due to the sloping roofline and the transmission shifts rough between gears.

2017 Ford Explorer: Key Points

  • Reliability ratings are decent with some exhaust issues. Buyers should avoid 20132016 models with engine problems and go with a 2017-2021.
  • Three engine options: an efficient 4-cylinder and two more powerful V6 choices.
  • Fuel economy is good at up to 22 MPG combined.
  • Safety scores are great, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
  • We recommend the 2017 Explorer since there are fewer problems than other years, and a lot of advanced technology for the cost.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Jessica C
Review of Explorer from a Single momma
Great comfort for highway and trips driving and around town. Lots of room for kids and stuff. Enjoy the visibility and handling of the vehicle. Feel safe in it. Leather seating is perfect comfort and clean up. Like the convenience of the two types of outlets for charging devices. Side mirror sensors have saved me several times. And the SiriusXM is an added bonus!
accountCircle Deb C
Forget the mommy van, the explorer is great!
I love my car! It is comfortable, great looking, reliable and very roomy. I love my heated seats and stereo wheel, the third row backseat as needed, the console is awesome and easy to use. It has great pickup, all wheel drive is convenient in the snow and ice. The gas mileage is not great but I knew that going into getting this car.
accountCircle Kathryn F
Ford explorer 2017 XLT with four wheel drive.
Very comfortable seating... Great for long trips. Great in the snow with the 4wd. I am 5'5', my husband is 6'3' and we both fit comfortably and can see comfortably without blind spots. We have third row seating that can be folded down to give a lot of space in the back. We appreciate the rear-controlled air conditioning.
accountCircle Alexa J
Very spacious and great for a family!
I have always wanted a large SUV to have when I start family and the explorer is most definitely the way to go! It is so roomy and can hold some much stuff. Some third row SUV the third row is very squashed but not in my explorer! I wouldn't trade this car for any other! It was definitely worth the money!
accountCircle Adriana M
Recommended for big families.
The way it fits a lot of people. It drives super smoothly. Love the interior. Barely waists gas. Amazing for big families. Do not have anything to complain about. I do not recommend for people who do not like driving big cars. Over all love it, totally recommend.
accountCircle Candice M
It is a great car for families.
We love our explorer! It has been a great car! We haven't needed to fix anything (knock on wood). We have 2 little girls and a dog and since the 3rd row folds down we have plenty of space! Love the back up camera and we use the Bluetooth every day! The driver's seat is more comfortable than the passenger seat for some reason? Overall we love it!
accountCircle Jim Z
Explorer for the people, all the comforts you could want.
Never a problem. Maintained regular maintenance. Stars in even the coldest weather. Plenty of cargo room. Interior is spacious and comfortable. Rides smooth and is extremely quiet. Lots of power, when needed. The 4 wheel drive is easy to use and a charm to use.
accountCircle Ashlee C
It is well made. Good on gas.
My car drives well and is comfortable. Good in gas mileage and enough space for a family of 4. I also love the color. .

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Lindsay Tortorici
Need a car we can rely on
In the last 2 months our 2017 ford explorer has been at our local ford dealership three times, for loss of antifreeze. They replaced the water pump and checked over the engine for leaks even did a engine compression test, it is now loosing more antifreeze then ever they have no idea what is causing this problem. Do not know what to do next we have owned many cars and never had a like problem.
accountCircle Cheryl B
Gas terrible, tank very small, fill up lots. Spout not on the drivers door side!
Bulky to drive, gets very bad gas mileage, has several blinds spots when looking back, the backup camera is a joke, the only one thing I like about it is the fact it seats comfortable.
accountCircle Jessica B
It is gets terrible gas mileage.
Our car has a terrible sound that seems as if the windows are cracked when they are not. The middle row does not have a lot of legroom making it hard to get kids in and out of their car seats. The third row is also so small it does not have any use. The back window does not roll down making it hard to have dogs in the back.
accountCircle claudia e
LEMON DON'T BUY ONE terrible gas mileage very disappointed in this vehicle
I like the stereo system and sitting up high horrible gas mileage any factory recalls its a LEMON
accountCircle Don DeMatteis
Big repair expense on 2 year old Exlporer
The vehicle is a good performer. But shocked with puddle of Transmission fluid under from car. Cooler failed!! $1226 repair to 2 year old, 40K miles car. Dealer could not help, and Ford Motor Customer Service blew me off. After 10 Ford's in the past 15 years....no more!
accountCircle Clare O
Not happy with car. Cheaply made. Already had to get new tires have work on transmission
Don't get a Ford Explorer. They are not worth the money. The service experience has been horrible.
accountCircle Alexis C
Explorer: safe but uncomfortable.
For the class of vehicle, the performance is better than most. It has semi decent gas mileage to be so heavy, and it can still 'get up and go'. It is very safe. Sadly 2 days after buying our explorer it was rear ended in traffic, but it held up well against the impact. My biggest complaint is the room inside. Our rear facing car seat couldn't be secured safely while keeping our comfort intact. Placing it behind the driver's seat was out of the question, because the seat needed to be moved forward to far for the driver's safety. When fixed behind the front passenger seat, it too needed to be moved all the way forward to give proper spacing that is safely recommended between each seat. (a mere 1 inch is recommended.)Then putting the car seat in the middle, it cannot use the latch system and still is awkwardly close to the front seats. This has really ruined the joy we had for our vehicle.
accountCircle Barlle D
Great mechanics and engine.
Do not really think it is all that great on mileage range. It is a gas guzzler and that is not great if you travel a lot like I do. It has not had in mechanic trouble however which has saved me a lot of money in the long run in that aspect. That is why I do not like it.

Top Critics Reviews

  • Consumer Reports finds the Explorer to be a very practical SUV with a good ride, but has some lower owner satisfaction ratings.
  • Edmunds gives the Explorer a 4.5/5, finding a lot of high-tech features, but has cramped seats in the second and third row.
  • Kelley Blue Book gives the Explorer a 3.8/5, noting advanced safety features, but is not as roomy as other SUVs.

What Problems Does the 2017 Ford Explorer Have?

Problems with the Explorer include premature tire wear, exhaust fumes in the cabin, and the rear window shattering. The newer 2018 models have fewer issues, but prices are about $4,000 higher.

Premature tire wear is the most common complaint, happening in under 20,000 miles. There are two sources to the problem including alignment issues, and cheap tires used from the factory. Replacing the tires and getting an alignment is about $1,200.

Exhaust fumes in the cabin are another issue with Explorers at around 12,000 miles. The exhaust fumes issue has been a problem across models starting in 2011 and can be a sign of an exhaust leak.

Shattering rear windows are another common problem on some vehicles. The glass is weaker than normal and slight chips can cause the entire window to shatter. A replacement is about $350.

There are 3 recalls, average for an SUV. Recalls include fuel pressure sensors, back seats, and roof rail covers. The most serious recall is for the fuel pressure sensor since a leak increases the risk of a fire.

How Long Will the 2017 Ford Explorer Last?

A properly maintained 2017 Explorer should be able to last 250,000 miles, which is similar to a Yukon or ExpeditionRepair Pal estimates annual maintenance costs to be costly at $651 per year.

As an Explorer reaches over 100,000 miles owners should prepare to replace serpentine belts for $100, clutch slave cylinders costing $600, and battery cables which cost $500.

accountCircle Kevin D

There have been a few minor inconveniences, but no mechanical problems at all. One of the doors is misaligned and sometimes the electronics are finicky.

accountCircle Ashley B

We have not had any issues with our ford explorer. Always reliable and heats up very quickly in the winter. This is important to me!

accountCircle James S

Yes it is reliable. There are no problems that are major. I think that the foot heating could be better.

accountCircle Keith C

Very reliable we have had no issues with the vehicle. We make sure we get it serviced on a regular periods.

accountCircle Jan D

This vehicle (so far) has been extremely reliable. It is been driven to Colorado twice, up to the top of pike peak, been through the rugged roads of the up. Excellent.

accountCircle Lauren H

I have maintained regular oil changes on the explorer and I have yet to encounter any issues. It is starts reliably in cold and hot weather, the ac/heater work wonderfully and the AWD is perfect.

accountCircle Mike G

I have had a couple of recalls for minor things, other than that, it is a very reliable vehicle. I do not know what else to write.

accountCircle Guy G

There are no problems in its reliability. The problems are gas mileage and an inability to keep the interior clean.

How Much is the 2017 Ford Explorer Worth?

Blue book prices range from $24,812 – 37,810, making it more affordable than a Tahoe or Sequoia. When new, the price range was $31,660 to $53,235. Depreciation is good, at around 6% of the current value per year.

What Are the Models & Specs?

Base is the entry-level model with:

  • 18-Inch Aluminum Wheels
  • Cloth Seating
  • Cruise Control
  • Power Driver’s Seat

XLT is a very popular model, adding:

  • Optional Fuel-Efficient 4-Cylinder
  • Black Exterior Trim

Limited offers good upgrades including:

  • Leather Seating
  • Power Adjustable Pedals
  • Dual-Zone Climate Control
  • Heated and Ventilated Front Seats

Sport is a performance-oriented model with:

  • 20-Inch Wheels
  • More Powerful V6 Engine
  • Sport Suspension

Platinum is the luxury model and has:

  • Premium Leather Seating
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
car
Base
280-290 HP 19-21 MPG
car
XLT
280-290 HP 19-21 MPG
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Limited
280-290 HP 19-21 MPG
car
car

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology is very good in the Explorer compared to some other large SUVs with all new technology added for 2017, the next redesign is for the 2019 model.

  • Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with 4.2-inch screen, Sync, and 6-speaker stereo.
  • Optional upgrades include an 8-Inch touchscreen infotainment system, satellite radio, and a 9-speaker stereo system.
  • Standard safety features include a rearview camera, anti-lock brakes, stability control and airbags. Collision warning, lane keep assist and blind spot monitoring are all optional.
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What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is similar to other SUVs with the base engines, but the most powerful V6 is quick. The largest engine takes the Explorer from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 6.3 seconds.

  • The base engine is a decently powered 3.5L V6 with 290 horsepower.
  • An efficient upgrade is the 2.3L turbo 4-cylinder which has 280 horsepower.
  • Found on the Sport and Platinum models is the powerful 3.5L turbo V6 making 365 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Explorer?

The 2017 Ford Explorer fills a unique space between midsize and full-size SUVs, being larger than a Grand Cherokee, but smaller than a Tahoe. Passenger room is cramped in the back seats, and there’s only room for young children in the third row.

Cargo space is good with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 43.9 behind the second, and 81.7 with all seats folded flat.

Centered wide dash shot

How Does the 2017 Ford Explorer Compare to Other SUVs?

The highest-rated full size SUV is the more expensive Chevy Suburban. Where the Suburban comes out ahead is with more passenger room and a higher towing capacity, but the Explorer is more fun to drive. If you don’t need the extra passenger room, the Explorer is better.

Another rival is the Toyota Sequoia, which is also more expensive. The Sequoia has better long-term reliability, but the Explorer has more up-to-date technology. We recommend the Sequoia since the engines last longer.

Ranks #6 Full Size SUV by Owners

1
car
4.76
2
car
4.69
6
car
4.58

Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Ford Explorer a Good SUV?

Yes, the Explorer is a good SUV. We have received many positive owner reviews mentioning comfortable captain’s seats in the second row, smooth suspension, and a fun driving experience.

Overall, 2017 is a good year for the Explorer fixing problems found on the 2016 model, but there are fewer complaints on the newer 2018.

accountCircle Kevin D

Yes, it is 3 row seating but does not feel sluggish and too large to drive and park. The v6 ecoboost engine is plenty of power and AWD works excellent. No considerable issues with the car so far.

accountCircle Ashley B

Yes! The ford explorer is a very family friendly vehicle! We are a family of four and it fits us great!

accountCircle James S

Yes the car holds up well. Fits my family size and reliable. I love apple CarPlay and the exterior look.

accountCircle Keith C

Yes a very good driving vehicle. It has a lot of features and the ride is very smooth. I would recommend this vehicle to family's for the size. This vehicle is also very dependable.

accountCircle Jan D

It is an excellent vehicle. Very roomy and comfortable. The car drives very nice, quiet. You have a sense of security while behind the wheel. I love this car. Best car I have ever purchased.

accountCircle Lauren H

It is an all season vehicle that I feel comfortable and safe driving, no matter the weather conditions. Snow, rain, wind... I am safe in this vehicle.

accountCircle Mike G

I love my ford explorer! Gives me a sense of safety and is good for traveling the highways of the USA visiting national parks.

accountCircle Katherine O

It is adequate for my needs. It doesn't break down and I can count on it’s performance in the city or mountains.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle FordExplorerVictim on May 27, 2023
Water Pump Failure
Bought my 2017 Ford Explorer brand new back in Nov 2016. At 36K miles already having issue. Engine Jerking, keeps on bringing it back to the dealership in Future Ford of Concord and keeps denying my complain and insisting no issue. At this age I already smelled foul smell inside the cabin as if I am using a 10 year old car. Also complained about this and the Service advisor replied that the smell was just because of the weatherLOL (WTF). Now has driven it for 100k Miles. Water Pump broke down that it had a massive coolant leak. Dealership quoted me for $2600.00 labor+Parts +tax. Huge pocket blow. So dissapointin. NO RECALL yet despite a number of owners complaining the same. NEVER AGAIN FORD! NEVER! A pioneer in the engine manufacturing yet still has not perfected their product.
accountCircle Unknown on January 18, 2023
Ford garbage
Garbage the metal from the seats cut you when you stick your hand to grab something that fell between the seats the small of burning plastic or eggs they told me was because was new when all along it was a defective vehicle and now the water pump is leaking ford is trash never again buy a ford!
accountCircle Joleen B on June 25, 2021
More luxurious than my BMW.
Feels like a luxury ride without the price tag. Has really cool features and only had to do routine maintenance such as oil changes. The heated/cooled seats and heated steering wheel are used so much more than I thought it would. The 3rd row easily seats an adult (I am 5’6” and am completely comfortable). Plenty of cup holders and storage space.
accountCircle Jessica F on June 24, 2021
Not a lot of cargo space when 3rd row is being used.
We got this vehicle for the 3rd row. We have two children and both in car seats. Unfortunately, when a car seat is behind the driver's seat, it makes it hard for my fiancé to be comfortable because he cannot put the seat back as far as he'd like.
accountCircle Ronella W on June 24, 2021
My ford explorer is perfect for my country lifestyle!
I really love my ford explorer. It is a very comfortable car, perfect for traveling with the grandkids, short trips to town for supplies and plenty of room to pickup a bag of horse feed when needed! My explorer gets great gas mileage and had not had any problems.
accountCircle Mike G on June 22, 2021
My 2017 ford explorer limited is great!
I bought my first explorer in 2002 and kept it for 15 years with no major expenses. I bought this 2017 new and I love it too. I will always recommend an explorer. I took a few road trips and put over 6000 miles on it the ride is smooth and comfortable. It also holds a lot of cargo.
accountCircle Kathy B on June 21, 2021
Ford explorer - a wonder to drive.
The SUV has a solid feel when driving which makes me feel safe. It rides smoothly and is great on gas mileage. The interior is well thought out. The controls are easy to reach. The seats are comfortable and there is a lot of room. I think the fold up seats could have better designed. I would have preferred that they fold flat rather than fold up. Seems a waste of space.
accountCircle Jenn C on June 17, 2021
Reliable, comfortable, and cool.
Rides really smooth, not a lot of road noise while driving. Optional 3rd row; 3rd row seating is a bit cramped but fine of you are average height. Lots of trunk space. Plenty of air vents cool the car quickly. Haven't had many maintenance issues, typical wear and tear type items only.
accountCircle Terry B on June 16, 2021
Love our explorer! Best and most rrt my vehicle we have owned!
This is the most comfortable vehicle mu 6’10” husband has owned. We both love it. The seats are comfortable, the interior pleasing, the exterior with blue paint is beautiful. In better years, we travel to Florida 3 or 4 times a year. This car gets reasonably good mileage and when the time comes to replace it, we will most likely purchase an explorer again.
accountCircle Justin S on June 10, 2021
2017 explorer quick review.
The heat is hot and the ac is freezing. For such a big vehicle it can really get up and go even hauling around 5 people. The mpg is what you'd expect from an SUV but the performance of the vehicle absolutely makes up for it. I have the 4wd version and it is amazing. I am able to go anywhere and do anything I want to do!
accountCircle Emma W on June 8, 2021
My vehicle is black and I love the features on it especially the sound system.
None I get it maintained every month. It is really reliable and gets me where I need to go and then some! I bought it used and it has never let me down the seats are comfy and I hope it lasts for many years to come. This vehicle is not the best on gas but I still like the features on it.
accountCircle Regina S on June 2, 2021
Lovely red eco explorer that is always clean.
I love everything about this vehicle except the color. It is red & shows dirt terribly. The tan seats also show every water stain. It has some blind spots that I must be careful with. I love to drive it & keep immaculately clean. The 3rd seats sometime get stuck in the folding position as well. I have an eco engine so the mileage is very good. I can get about 24 mpg.
accountCircle dzejlana K on May 27, 2021
Ford explorer XLT. Likes and dislikes.
Sometimes the radio is slow to load, car jumps. Nice to have the 3rd row seating, however wish that didn't have to put back seats down to get into last row. Can throw it into sport mode if need better handling. Had a variety of road conditions to choose from for better driving in different terrains and weather. Love the heated seats and heated steering wheel.
accountCircle Tebra N on May 25, 2021
Perfect for a growing family!
My husband and I first fell in love with the explorer when we were on our honeymoon in Colorado. It was perfect! Just a few years later, we found that we outgrew our Toyota sedan. We remembered how spacious this vehicle was and specially sought it out. It is roomy, handles well, the turn radius is fantastic and I am just happy it is not a minivan.
accountCircle Stella E on May 20, 2021
Fantastic vehicle! My favorite ever.
Super nice to drive! Looks great and drives great. Sirius XM is a good edition and is super easy to use. The backup camera screen is also nice. Interior looks fantastic. The only issue we had was the battery draining, but we got it fixed. I would recommend this car and it is going to be sad to part with it!
accountCircle Lindsay T on May 12, 2021
Forget those other cars. Get you a ford explorer!
I absolutely love my ford explorer. I have owned this explorer for almost 3 years and I have not had to fix anything on it. However, I make sure I keep up with maintenance while taking good care of it inside and out. It has lasted us through many road trips! I love the all black interior it hides stains from the kids but looks very sleek. All three rows of seats are roomy and comfortable. Mine is equipped with Sirius radio and navigation which I love. You do have to purchase Sirius XM radio but it is worth it. The navigation is easy to maneuver through and is pretty accurate and up to date. The gas mileage is very good. I commute forty miles to and from work five to six days a week so I love that it helps keep my gas affordable.
accountCircle Charlotte K on May 11, 2021
I absolutely love my ford explorer.
I absolutely love my ford explorer. I have owned this car for 3 years and never had any issues with it. I have driven it countless miles and it continues to run great. There is plenty of seating and when needed the seats can be folded down. It is an excellent car and I would recommend to anyone!
accountCircle Leticia R on May 11, 2021
The ford explorer has its pros and cons.
It is been amazing. I love the fact that it is a seven seater. You can hide the last row to only use five seats. The only few problems it has had is that the mirrors snap constantly and get stuck once they start snapping. Another problem we had was that we experienced a broken water pump.
accountCircle Robert B on May 10, 2021
2017 ford explorer review.
I love my explorer. We have only fad a few mechanical problems with the front suspension and the steering wheel clicks as it rotates. I love having the third row seating when we have extra people to haul around. The heated seats and auto start are amazing when it is cold out. Allows me to get the vehicle warm without having to leave my keys in the car.
accountCircle Don on May 10, 2021
Great Vehicle, but
We live our 2017 Ford Explorer XLT, great comfortable ride, lots of room and visibility is great. However, it has been in the dealership for over a week for what was a routine service! Needed front end repairs, warranty engine repairs, warranty roof rack repairs, spark plugs and on and on! Picked it up last night and the check engine light was on.......
accountCircle Anthony W on May 9, 2021
Ford explorer XLT 2017 pros cons.
Pretty nice smooth automobile. Few issues 1 I think it's pretty small to be a SUV and 2 I think the leak recall out of the muffler is something that should been known before purchasing. But rides great and pretty stylish. I believe it's a wonderful SUV and I feel satisfied with it.
accountCircle Steve B on May 7, 2021
My explorer review for potential shoppers.
Several recalls. Good ride. Great looking. Black color looks great. Lots of room to haul luggage. Have transported 12 bales of straw. I had running boards added on and it really helps. V6 motor not terribly fast but is quite dependable. Automation, navigation, mobile phone connection and charging.
accountCircle Joe F on May 4, 2021
Comfortable, feature packed Little Giant.
Love the way it sits on the road. I have been driving the expedition the last few years but as the kids have moved on I decided to go smaller. The explorer is roomy and comfortable and compared to the expedition, it drives like a sports car. Ford has done a great job with all the features. I use the ford sync and it works seamlessly with my cell phone. I have the sport model which is loaded with features. One thing I have always loved about ford is the steering, no one gives you a better turn ratio. I give my explorer two thumbs up.
accountCircle Brenda D on May 3, 2021
Good on gas mileage and very roomy.
Pros: good gas mileage, roomy, I love my touch screen radio, the backup camera, smooth ride, plenty of charging stations! Cons: side panel from car door is loose, it does not have a haul kit. I have to get someone to install it., which costs money.
accountCircle Holly G on May 2, 2021
Love the performance and look.
I love this car. I drive it around all the time and is great if you have kids. There is plenty of space in the back and drives very smoothly. The seats are very comfortable and I love that the car is very sleek. I have had no problems with this car and I do not think I will be having any anytime soon. This car also has a big trunk which is perfect for going to the store.
accountCircle Glenn D on April 27, 2021
Ford explorer - fully loaded.
I have no complaints about this vehicle. The seats are comfortable and have both air conditioning and heat. The steering wheel is heated. The second row has heated seats, and the third row is power for easy storage. Everything is powered and there are 3 memory settings for frequent drivers.
accountCircle Scott S on April 23, 2021
My ford explorer is one of the sharpest looking cars on the road.
My ford explorer is an excellent SUV. It rides smoothly, handles nicely and is very comfortable inside. My XLT with the sports package is also very sharp looking and it has tons of room in the back. There is also a 3rd row and the car seats 7. I have also taken my explorer off road and in the snow. It handles both very nicely.
accountCircle Haley W on April 21, 2021
The best family luxury vehicle.
I really love my 2017 platinum explorer in pearl white. It has amazing, above and beyond features like massaging seats, heating and cooling seats, great gas mileage (283 miles on a full tank), tan leather interior, and drives really smoothly. It is very spacious for car seats and trunk space. We really enjoy this car. The only problem we have had with it is the battery had to replace a few weeks ago. Other than that it has been a great family luxury vehicle.
accountCircle Amelia G on April 20, 2021
The overall feel of the vehicle is perfection.
The third row seating makes life easier. I can sit them up and fit more people, put them down for groceries or just fold them in for my dogs. The gas mileage is not bad. The leather seats are super easy to clean. There are plenty of cup holders, it is very sleek and just overall an amazing vehicle. This is my dream car.
accountCircle Allison E on April 13, 2021
It is durable. 4wd. Comfortable.
Super comfortable, has a lot of features. Have had for 4 years, I love my ford explorer. Gas mileage is good as well. It is durable, and our family vehicle. We bought new. We would buy another. Not liking that pieces have fell off while driving down interstate.
accountCircle Johnny S on April 12, 2021
Better than expected SUV.
So far it has been totally reliable. Very powerful and sporty with great looks. Has luxury touches that more expensive cars do not... Power tailgate and power rear seat stowage. A little hard to get used to the blind spots and size of the hood but it is a great car.
accountCircle JF - Maryland on April 10, 2021
Great SUV, No Real Complaints but One
I bought this 2017 Explorer XLT new, fully loaded. It’s been a great vehicle so far, have 48K miles on it, mostly city driving. Have had only a few issues with it so far (knock on wood); rood rack rail is always coming loose and actually came completely off once. Dealer kept replacing the clips which only lasted a few months. I told them last time I might as well glue it down myself and was told I shouldn’t. Brought it in today for scheduled maintenance and was told Ford just came out with a solution for it but they don’t have the part yet for it. After waiting several hous for my car to be finished was told the part just came in but they’d have to keep the car overnight. Why you ask? It’s a glue that takes time to set!! Gorilla glue here I come!! And oh, the plastic base of the driver’s seat is cracked so the glue ought to help with that too I would think
accountCircle Jen M on April 8, 2021
Ford explorer great for getting around.
The explorer rides well with minimal road noise. The back is perfect for traveling with the dogs. With the fold down seats there is plenty of room for whatever you need to haul. The touchscreen control is great for controlling the radio, climate control, navigation, etc.
accountCircle Kennedy P on April 6, 2021
The great ford explorer, I love them!
I love my vehicle, but if I were to say any problems about it I do have a problem with some of the safety sensors. I will be driving all alone on a road no other cars in sight and all of a sudden my front sensor will go off scaring me and indicating that I am getting too close to another vehicle even though nothing is there.
accountCircle Eileen B on April 4, 2021
Comfortable, reliable, and fun to drive.
I love my ford explorer. It is comfortable, even on long trips. It does not feel like your driving a truck. It is a smooth ride. I love all the tech features. It is has a very user friendly touch screen. Phone was easy to set up/connect. We bought it used about 7 months ago. As of yet, no problems or recalls. We were looking for something to haul stuff to and from cabin. It is easy to turn seats down and can fit a lot of stuff. So far it has not let me down. I really like ford's service, as well as the fact that this is an American company.
accountCircle Tara M on April 2, 2021
Good family SUV user friendly and fun to drive!
This car is very reliable and user friendly. There is lots of space for kids and supplies. Putting seats up and down are easy to do. The electronics are fun and easy to use. It is a comfortable riding larger SUV! There are sensors that help navigating in tight areas. Overall this has been the perfect family SUV!
accountCircle Donna F on April 2, 2021
Reliability, luxury, and the perfect tow vehicle.
This is the 4th ford explorer that I have owned. I keep purchasing explorers because they are so reliable and have all the features that I love. I purchased my most recent explorer because I needed a vehicle with tow capacity to tow my travel trailer. The model I purchased can tow up to 5,000 lbs. Which is great! I like other extras like 4wd, back-up cameras and alerts, and being able to sync my phone with the car. When I am not camping I can flip the 3rd row seating up from the cargo area which has come in handy many times.
accountCircle Alex O on April 1, 2021
Explorer’s are great mom cars!
We bought the explorer when we had 1 child because of the great safety ratings and the style. We love the versatility of the seats and how we can configure them accordingly. We now have 2 children and we have enough room for everyone. The vehicle rides easy, and has all the features we could need. I also like dashboard and that you can easily find out what you want to know about the vehicle while you are driving such as gas mileage, tire pressure, etc. Such a great car!
accountCircle kris k on March 31, 2021
Nice and roomy, fits all my needs. I would recommend to my family and friends.
I like my explorer for the almost 2 years I have had it. Very dependable nice and roomy fits all of my needs.
accountCircle Katie D on March 30, 2021
Very happy with the choice in a family vehicle.
My ford explorer drives smoothly and feels safe. The captain’s chair feature and third row make the vehicle functional for everyday use with two children and all they travel with. Maintenance to date has been reasonable and expected. Our family has been very happy with the choice in vehicle.
accountCircle Jason M on March 29, 2021
It is a 2017 ford explorer I love it very great on gas and size.
It is a 2017 runs amazing never had any issue with it but then again I am a ford person the ride in it is amazing been on many trips never had any issue with it has a great engine 4 wheel drive makes it easy to go places and has great room in the inside.
accountCircle Megan K on March 29, 2021
The vehicle is very quiet and drives very smooth.
I have not had any problems with my Explorer! It runs very smoothly and quietly. I love that there are three rows. My daughter says the third row is actually roomy and comfy. The only thing I would change would be to have captain seats in the second row. I would definitely recommend this vehicle!
accountCircle Rose F on March 28, 2021
It's handles great in all types of weather, rain, snow,
I like the way it rides and handles. Like all the features like GPS, heated seats, etc. Like the color but shows every tiny little scratch.
accountCircle Nathan P on March 27, 2021
The dependable 2017 ford explorer.
The car runs well and rides comfortably, the steering wheel is comfortable and gives smooth turns. Great gas mileage, very efficient. The ecoboost is great. The infotainment screen, CD player, USB cord, and Bluetooth are all what I think are must haves in a car.
accountCircle Kayla L on March 27, 2021
The best highlight it has is the giant screen that is helpful to navigate.
It is remarkable. I would buy another one in a heartbeat. It drives smoothly and looks great. I have no had any issues. The gas mileage is amazing as well. It has good sound and the automatic start is a life saver. The seats are comfortable and the trunk is very spacious.
accountCircle Tiffany M on March 23, 2021
Comfort and class! Best SUV on the market!
I love my explorer! You hardly hear any road noise. It is one of the quietest SUVs on the market. The comfort of the heated steering wheel and seats is amazing in the winter time, as well as the temp at start for those extra cold mornings! I like the convenience of the push start and key fob so I am not constantly looking for my keys in the bottom of my purse to unlock or start the car.
accountCircle Christine R on March 19, 2021
I love the size and all of the options included in the vehicle. I love the way it handles and the ride.
It is the perfect family vehicle and has many options and features included.
accountCircle Chelsea C on March 19, 2021
The best car to feel safe in.
None so far it is such a reliable car. Has great navigation and luxury items that a luxury car would have. I feel so safe driving it with the camera sensors and the back up sensors. I would highly recommend this car to anyone I couldn’t be happier with it is the best.
accountCircle Sharon G on March 18, 2021
I look good in it!! It is very comfortable and it drives very smooth on the road
The car performs very well. I feel safe in it. It is very classy looking. I feel good driving it and it is very easy to drive
accountCircle Jeff M on March 18, 2021
It is safe and comfortable.
I love my ford. Has massage and heated seats. The auto start is perfect. I love the bucket seat and the third row. I love the features. The automatic parallel parking is an excellent feature. I love the leather seats and that heat and cool. I would recommend my car to anyone.
accountCircle Cody R on March 17, 2021
Ford explorer - vehicle of my dreams.
No problems at all. Very reliable for snowy and cold climates. Great power, very safe vehicle. I will be leasing another ford explorer once my lease is up. Possibly even buying one. I love this vehicle, again, no problems at all with it. Handles well, great in all climates, as well as it is sleek looking.
accountCircle Natalie R on March 16, 2021
Absolutely love my Ford Explorer!!
The Ford Explorer is a wonderful family car or run around car. The explorer gets wonderful gas mileage on trips and is really smooth and quiet on the highway. The back seat has great legroom for passengers and space for car seats. Also the seats fold down flat to make hauling different things a lot easier whether it be furniture or groceries the room is there.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.