2017 Ford Explorer Fuel Mileage – Real-World Data And DIY Efficiency
The 2017 Ford Explorer offers varying fuel efficiency depending on its engine configuration, ranging from a respectable 27 mpg on the highway to a thirstier 16 mpg in the city. This guide examines how your specific drivetrain and maintenance habits directly impact your wallet at the pump.
We all agree that the 2017 Ford Explorer is a fantastic vehicle for hauling families and gear, but the 2017 ford explorer fuel mileage can sometimes leave owners wanting more. If you find yourself visiting the gas station more often than you’d like, you are not alone in your frustration.
I promise that by the end of this guide, you will understand exactly why your Explorer is consuming fuel the way it is and how to fix it. We will cover engine specs, common maintenance pitfalls, and professional DIY tips to help you regain those lost miles per gallon.
In the following sections, we will break down the differences between the EcoBoost and naturally aspirated engines. We will also look at how simple changes to your maintenance routine can result in significant savings over the life of your vehicle.
Understanding the 2017 ford explorer fuel mileage by Engine Configuration
Ford offered three distinct engine options for the 2017 model year, each with its own efficiency profile. To understand your vehicle’s performance, you first need to identify which powertrain is sitting under your hood.
The 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder is the efficiency leader of the group. When paired with Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), it carries an EPA rating of 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. This engine uses turbocharging to provide the power of a larger engine without the constant fuel draw.
The standard 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 is the workhorse of the lineup. It offers a balanced 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway in the FWD configuration. While it lacks the turbo punch, many DIYers prefer its simplicity for long-term maintenance and reliability.
Finally, the 3.5L EcoBoost Twin-Turbo V6 found in the Sport and Platinum trims is built for performance. It delivers a more modest 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. This engine requires more fuel to feed those dual turbochargers, especially when you have a heavy right foot.
FWD vs. Intelligent 4WD Impact
Choosing the Intelligent 4WD system adds capability but sacrifices some efficiency. The extra weight of the transfer case and rear differential increases mechanical drag.
Generally, opting for 4WD will drop your highway ratings by about 1 to 2 mpg across all engine types. This is a trade-off many off-roaders and northern drivers are happy to make for better traction in the snow or mud.
Aerodynamics and Weight: The Silent Efficiency Killers
The 2017 Explorer is a large, boxy SUV, which means it has to push a lot of air out of the way. Anything you add to the exterior can drastically hurt your 2017 ford explorer fuel mileage by increasing drag.
Roof racks and cargo baskets are common culprits. Even an empty roof rack can create enough wind resistance to drop your highway fuel economy by 5%. If you aren’t using your crossbars, consider removing them for your daily commute.
Weight is another major factor. For every 100 pounds of extra gear you carry, your fuel economy can drop by about 1%. If you keep heavy recovery gear, tools, or camping equipment in the back year-round, you are paying for it at every fill-up.
The “Trail-Ready” Penalty
Many owners like the look of a leveled suspension or oversized tires. While these modifications improve off-road clearance, they ruin aerodynamic efficiency. A higher stance allows more air to flow under the vehicle, creating turbulence and drag.
If you have modified your Explorer for the trails, expect your real-world numbers to be lower than the EPA estimates. Balancing utility and efficiency is a constant battle for the enthusiast driver.
DIY Maintenance Steps to Restore Lost 2017 ford explorer fuel mileage
If you’ve noticed a sudden drop in efficiency, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Most causes of poor 2017 ford explorer fuel mileage are related to neglected maintenance items that you can easily address in your driveway.
Start with your engine air filter. A clogged filter starves the engine of oxygen, forcing the Engine Control Module (ECM) to compensate by injecting more fuel. Replace your filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, or more often if you drive on dusty trails.
Next, inspect your spark plugs. For the EcoBoost engines, spark plug gap is critical. Over time, the gap widens, leading to weak combustion. Installing a fresh set of iridium spark plugs can restore lost power and efficiency in about an hour of work.
Cleaning the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is another pro tip. Use a dedicated MAF sensor cleaner to remove dust and oil. A clean sensor provides accurate data to the computer, ensuring the most efficient air-fuel ratio possible.
Fuel System Health
Carbon buildup is a known issue for Direct Injection (DI) engines like the EcoBoost. Using a high-quality fuel system cleaner every few months can help keep injectors spraying a fine mist rather than a stream.
While you’re at it, check your tire pressure. Running tires just 5 PSI low can increase rolling resistance significantly. Always check your pressures when the tires are cold for the most accurate reading.
The Impact of Tires and Suspension on Your MPG
Your choice of rubber is the only thing connecting your Explorer to the road. Heavy All-Terrain (A/T) tires might look aggressive, but they are much heavier than standard highway tires. This unsprung weight requires more energy to get moving.
If you spend 90% of your time on pavement, consider a “mild” A/T tire or a highway-terrain tire with a low rolling resistance rating. This can save you 1-2 mpg compared to a heavy-duty mud tire.
Worn suspension components can also play a role. If your alignment is off, your tires are essentially “scrubbing” against the road as you drive. This creates friction that the engine has to overcome, leading to poor 2017 ford explorer fuel mileage.
Wheel Alignment and Drag
If your steering wheel isn’t centered or the car pulls to one side, get an alignment immediately. Proper toe and camber settings ensure your tires roll freely. This simple service can pay for itself in fuel savings within a few months.
Check for “brake drag” as well. A sticking brake caliper can act like a subtle anchor. After a long drive, safely feel (don’t touch!) near the center of your wheels. If one wheel feels significantly hotter than the others, you likely have a seized caliper.
Troubleshooting Common Mechanical Issues Affecting Economy
Sometimes, maintenance isn’t enough, and you have to dig into diagnostics. A failing Oxygen (O2) sensor is a frequent offender. These sensors monitor exhaust gases and tell the computer how much fuel to pull or add.
If an O2 sensor becomes “lazy,” it might not trigger a Check Engine Light (CEL) immediately, but it will cause the engine to run “rich.” This means you are burning more fuel than necessary. A scan tool can help you monitor these sensor voltages in real-time.
The thermostat is another often-overlooked part. If the thermostat is stuck open, the engine will never reach its optimal operating temperature. Engines are designed to be most efficient when warm; a cold-running engine stays in “open-loop” mode, consuming excessive fuel.
The Evaporative Emission (EVAP) System
A leak in the EVAP system, often caused by a loose gas cap or a faulty purge valve, can also hurt your mileage. The purge valve controls how fuel vapors are recycled into the engine. If it fails, it can create a vacuum leak that disrupts your idle and efficiency.
If you see a “Check Fuel Fill Inlet” message on your dashboard, don’t ignore it. This indicates a leak in the capless fuel system that can lead to evaporative losses and decreased performance.
Driving Habits for Maximum Efficiency
Technology can only do so much; the person behind the wheel has the biggest impact on 2017 ford explorer fuel mileage. Rapid acceleration is the fastest way to drain your tank. Try to keep your RPMs low and steady.
Use cruise control on flat highways. The computer is much better at maintaining a constant speed than a human foot. However, in very hilly terrain, it is often better to turn cruise control off so you can allow the vehicle to gain a little speed on the downhills.
Avoid excessive idling. If you are waiting for someone for more than a minute, turn the engine off. Modern starters are robust, and idling is essentially zero miles per gallon. It also leads to faster carbon buildup in EcoBoost engines.
Managing the Turbo Boost
If you have an EcoBoost engine, learn to drive “out of the boost.” The turbochargers provide great power, but they require a lot of fuel to stay cool under load. By accelerating gently, you keep the wastegate open and the turbos from spooling up unnecessarily.
Watching your “Instant MPG” display on the dashboard can be a great teacher. It provides immediate feedback on how your throttle inputs affect your consumption. Treat it like a game to see how high you can keep that number.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Ford Explorer Fuel Mileage
Does premium gas improve the 2017 ford explorer fuel mileage?
For the 3.5L and 2.3L EcoBoost engines, Ford recommends premium fuel for “best overall performance.” While it may not drastically increase your MPG in city driving, it can help the engine run more efficiently under load, such as when towing or climbing mountains.
How much does towing affect the Explorer’s MPG?
Towing a trailer can cut your fuel mileage in half. When towing a 5,000-pound load, expect to see 8-12 mpg. The aerodynamic drag of the trailer is often a bigger factor than the weight itself.
Is the 2.3L EcoBoost better than the 3.5L V6 for gas mileage?
On paper, yes. The 2.3L EcoBoost is rated for 2-3 mpg more than the standard V6. However, in real-world driving, if you drive the 2.3L aggressively, the turbochargers will consume fuel quickly, narrowing the gap between the two engines.
Why is my 2017 Ford Explorer getting worse mileage in the winter?
Winter blend fuels have lower energy density than summer blends. Additionally, cold air is denser, increasing aerodynamic drag, and the engine takes longer to reach its efficient operating temperature.
Conclusion: Maximizing Every Gallon
Improving your 2017 ford explorer fuel mileage is a combination of smart maintenance, thoughtful modifications, and disciplined driving. By addressing small issues like tire pressure and air filters, you can see immediate improvements in your weekly fuel costs.
Remember that your Explorer is a versatile tool. Whether you are using it for the daily school run or a weekend off-road adventure, keeping it in peak mechanical condition ensures you get the most out of every drop of fuel. Don’t let preventable issues like old spark plugs or a dirty MAF sensor rob you of performance.
Take the time this weekend to check your fluids, clear out unnecessary weight, and perhaps give your engine a fresh air filter. Your wallet—and your Ford—will thank you for the extra effort. Stay safe on the road and enjoy the journey!
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