2017 Ford Explorer Coolant Type – The Essential Guide For Owners
The 2017 Ford Explorer requires Motorcraft Specialty Green Engine Coolant, specifically the WSS-M97B55-A specification. Using the incorrect fluid can lead to corrosion, engine overheating, or damage to your vehicle’s heater core and cooling passages.
You’ve noticed your temperature gauge creeping up, or maybe you’re prepping for a long road trip and realized your overflow tank is looking a little low. We have all been there, standing in the aisle of an auto parts store, staring at a wall of different colored jugs. When it comes to the 2017 Ford Explorer coolant type, guessing is not an option if you want to protect your engine’s longevity.
Whether you are a weekend warrior tackling a radiator flush or just topping off before a camping trip, using the right chemistry is vital. In this guide, we will break down exactly what your cooling system needs to stay running cool, clean, and reliable for years to come.
Understanding the 2017 Ford Explorer Coolant Type Requirements
Modern engines are precision machines, and the cooling system is the unsung hero that prevents catastrophic failure. For your 2017 Explorer, Ford specifies a very particular OAT (Organic Acid Technology) formulation designed to protect aluminum components from internal corrosion.
The correct fluid is officially known as Motorcraft Specialty Green Engine Coolant. You will typically find this as a concentrated formula or a pre-diluted version. If you buy the concentrate, always mix it with distilled water to prevent mineral buildup inside the radiator and engine block.
Never mix different types of coolants, such as the older “green” conventional stuff or the “Dex-Cool” orange variety, with the factory-fill. Doing so can cause the additives to precipitate, essentially turning into a gel that clogs your heater core and restricts flow, which is a nightmare to repair.
Why Choosing the Right Coolant Matters for Off-Roaders
If you take your Explorer off the beaten path, your cooling system works much harder than it does during a daily commute. Climbing steep grades or idling on a dusty trail puts significant thermal stress on the engine.
Using the manufacturer-recommended fluid ensures that the boil-over protection and anti-cavitation properties are exactly where they need to be. Cavitation happens when air bubbles collapse against the water pump impeller, potentially pitting the metal and causing premature pump failure.
By sticking to the 2017 Ford Explorer coolant type, you ensure the chemical inhibitors are compatible with the seals, gaskets, and plastic components throughout the system. A reliable cooling system is your best insurance policy against being stranded miles from civilization.
How to Check and Top Off Your Coolant Safely
Before you even pop the hood, remember the golden rule: never open a hot cooling system. The system is pressurized, and releasing the cap while the engine is hot can result in severe steam burns.
Step-by-Step Inspection
- Park on level ground and let the engine cool for at least one hour.
- Locate the translucent coolant reservoir tank near the passenger side of the engine bay.
- Check the fluid level against the “MIN” and “MAX” markings on the side of the tank.
- If you need to top off, ensure the engine is stone cold before removing the cap.
If you find yourself constantly adding fluid, you likely have a leak. Check your radiator hoses, the water pump area, and even the cabin floor for signs of a leaking heater core. If the fluid level is low, a quick top-off is a temporary fix, not a solution to a leak.
The Importance of Using Distilled Water
Many DIYers make the mistake of using tap water to dilute their coolant concentrate. Tap water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that react with the cooling system’s heat.
These minerals create scale deposits inside the radiator fins, which act like insulation and prevent heat from escaping. Over time, this makes your engine run hotter than it should, even if your coolant level is perfectly topped off.
Always keep a gallon of distilled water in your garage for automotive use. It is inexpensive, readily available at any grocery store, and ensures that your cooling system remains free of harmful mineral deposits.
Signs Your Cooling System Needs Attention
Beyond checking the 2017 Ford Explorer coolant type, you should keep an eye on your vehicle’s behavior. Subtle changes can indicate that your coolant has broken down or that a component is failing.
- Sweet smell: If you smell a sickly-sweet odor inside the cabin or near the front of the car, that is a tell-tale sign of a coolant leak.
- Temperature spikes: If the gauge needle fluctuates wildly or moves toward the red zone under load, stop and inspect the system.
- Discolored fluid: If you pull a sample and it looks muddy or rusty, the corrosion inhibitors have failed and a full flush is required.
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait. A small leak can turn into a blown head gasket if ignored, which is a significantly more expensive repair than a simple cooling system service.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Ford Explorer Coolant Type
Can I use universal coolant in my 2017 Ford Explorer?
It is strongly advised against. While some products claim to be “universal,” they often lack the specific chemical balance required for the Ford cooling system. Always use the Motorcraft Specialty Green or a verified equivalent that meets the exact Ford WSS-M97B55-A specification.
How often should I change the coolant in my Explorer?
Under normal driving conditions, the factory recommends a long interval, but for those who tow or drive in harsh conditions, we suggest a flush and fill every 60,000 to 100,000 miles to keep the system clean and efficient.
What if I accidentally used the wrong coolant?
If you have already mixed the wrong coolant, do not panic. Avoid driving the vehicle for long periods and schedule a full cooling system flush as soon as possible to remove the incompatible chemicals before they form sludge.
Is the coolant reservoir cap pressurized?
Yes, the cap is a pressure-relief valve. If the seal on your cap is worn or cracked, it cannot hold pressure, which lowers the boiling point of your coolant and leads to overheating. If you have a leak, check the cap gasket first—it is an easy and cheap fix.
Maintaining your cooling system is one of the easiest ways to ensure your vehicle stays on the road for years. By using the correct 2017 Ford Explorer coolant type and keeping an eye on your levels, you can prevent unexpected repairs and enjoy your time behind the wheel. Stay safe and stay comfortable on all your future adventures!
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