2017 Ford Explorer Gas Mileage – Real-World Efficiency

ByRobert Lozano

The 2017 Ford Explorer offers a range of fuel economy figures depending on whether you choose the efficient 2.3L EcoBoost, the standard 3.5L V6, or the powerful twin-turbocharged Sport model. While EPA ratings provide a baseline, real-world variables like tire pressure, driving habits, and maintenance play a massive role in your actual pump price.

Do you feel like your SUV is visiting the gas station more often than it should? Many owners find that their 2017 ford explorer gas mileage fluctuates significantly based on how they maintain their vehicle and where they drive.

Whether you are commuting to work or heading off-road for a weekend camping trip, understanding your fuel consumption is the first step toward saving money. This guide will walk you through the technical specs, common MPG killers, and DIY steps to keep your Explorer running efficiently.

We will look at the different engine configurations and provide actionable maintenance advice that any driveway mechanic can handle. Let’s dive into the details and get your Ford running at peak performance.

Understanding the EPA Ratings for the 2017 Ford Explorer

Ford offered three distinct engine options for the 2017 model year, each catering to a different type of driver. The fuel economy you experience depends heavily on the powertrain tucked under your hood.

The base 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 engine is the most common version you will find on the road. It typically delivers an EPA-estimated 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway for front-wheel-drive models.

If you have the 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, you likely chose it for its efficiency. This turbocharged option pushes the 2017 ford explorer gas mileage up to about 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, making it the “greenest” choice in the lineup.

Finally, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 found in the Sport and Platinum trims prioritizes power over pennies. With standard Intelligent 4WD, this beast usually nets around 16 MPG city and 22 MPG highway, which is the trade-off for its 365 horsepower.

Front-Wheel Drive vs. Four-Wheel Drive Efficiency

Choosing the Intelligent 4WD system adds capability but also adds weight and mechanical drag. This usually results in a 1-2 MPG drop across the board compared to front-wheel-drive configurations.

The 4WD system in the Explorer is proactive, meaning it shifts power to the rear wheels before slip even occurs. While great for safety, this constant monitoring and potential engagement can slightly increase fuel consumption during spirited driving.

Real-World Factors Affecting 2017 Ford Explorer Gas Mileage

It is rare for a driver to match the EPA laboratory numbers exactly in daily life. Heavy traffic, frequent idling, and even the quality of the fuel you use can cause your 2017 ford explorer gas mileage to dip below expectations.

One of the biggest factors is the “brick in the wind” aerodynamics of a large SUV. Driving at 80 MPH instead of 70 MPH creates significantly more wind resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel.

Temperature also plays a role, especially for the EcoBoost engines. Cold air is denser, which the ECU (Engine Control Unit) compensates for by adding more fuel to maintain the proper stoichiometric ratio.

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The Impact of External Accessories

Are you a weekend warrior with a roof rack or a cargo box? Even an empty roof rack can create enough aerodynamic drag to reduce your fuel economy by 1 to 5 percent.

If you have installed larger off-road tires or a leveling kit, your rolling resistance has increased. These modifications are great for the trail but are notorious for dragging down your highway efficiency.

DIY Maintenance to Improve 2017 Ford Explorer Gas Mileage

If your fuel economy has suddenly dropped, it is time to pop the hood. Regular maintenance is the most effective way to ensure your 2017 ford explorer gas mileage stays as high as possible.

Start with your air filter, as a clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing the engine to compensate. Replacing a dirty filter is a five-minute job that requires no tools and can provide an immediate boost in throttle response.

Next, check your spark plugs, especially if you are approaching the 100,000-mile mark. Worn plugs can cause incomplete combustion, leading to wasted fuel and potential misfires that trigger a Check Engine Light.

Cleaning the Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor

The MAF sensor tells the computer exactly how much air is entering the engine. Over time, oil vapors and dust can coat the sensor wires, leading to inaccurate readings and poor fuel trim.

Use a dedicated MAF sensor cleaner spray; never use brake cleaner or carb cleaner, as these can damage the delicate internals. A clean sensor ensures the engine uses only the fuel it absolutely needs.

Monitoring Tire Pressure

Under-inflated tires are one of the most common causes of poor fuel economy. For every 1 PSI drop in all four tires, you can expect a 0.2 percent drop in gas mileage.

Check your door placard for the recommended Cold Tire Pressure (usually around 35 PSI). Use a high-quality digital gauge and adjust the pressure in the morning before you have driven the vehicle.

Common Mechanical Issues That Kill Fuel Economy

Sometimes, maintenance isn’t enough, and a failing component is the culprit. If your 2017 ford explorer gas mileage plummets suddenly, you may have an underlying mechanical issue.

A sticking brake caliper is a common “hidden” problem. If one caliper doesn’t fully retract, it creates constant friction, essentially making your engine fight against the brakes the entire time you drive.

Faulty Oxygen (O2) sensors are another primary suspect. These sensors monitor the exhaust gases; if they send a “lean” signal erroneously, the computer will dump extra fuel into the cylinders.

The Role of the Fuel Injectors

Dirty fuel injectors can cause a poor spray pattern, leading to inefficient burning. Instead of a fine mist, the injector might “dribble” fuel, which does not ignite as easily or completely.

Running a high-quality fuel system cleaner through a tank of gas every few months can help. However, if an injector is physically leaking, it will need to be replaced by a professional to avoid engine damage.

How Off-Road Setup and Towing Change the Equation

For the off-roaders in the “EngineNeeds” community, efficiency often takes a backseat to capability. However, it is important to know how much your setup is costing you at the pump.

Adding a heavy steel bash plate or a hidden winch adds “sprung weight” to the vehicle. Every extra 100 pounds in your Explorer can reduce your 2017 ford explorer gas mileage by about 1 percent.

When towing a trailer, your fuel economy will likely drop into the low teens. The 2017 Explorer is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, but doing so requires the engine to stay in a higher RPM range.

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Tips for Efficient Towing

  • Check Trailer Bearings: Ensure your trailer wheels spin freely to minimize drag.
  • Level the Load: An unlevel trailer creates more wind resistance and affects vehicle handling.
  • Use Tow/Haul Mode: This setting adjusts shift points to keep the engine in its most efficient power band while under load.

Driving Habits for Maximum Efficiency

The most sophisticated engine technology in the world cannot overcome a “lead foot.” Your driving style is the single most significant variable in determining your actual fuel costs.

Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, which waste energy that has already been produced. Instead, try to “read” the traffic ahead so you can coast toward red lights rather than staying on the gas until the last second.

Utilize the cruise control feature on flat highways. The 2017 Explorer’s system is very good at maintaining a steady speed, which is almost always more efficient than manual throttle modulation.

Managing Idle Time

Idling is 0 MPG. If you are waiting to pick someone up or sitting in a long drive-thru line, consider turning the engine off.

Modern starters and batteries are robust, and the fuel used to restart a warm engine is significantly less than the fuel burned during 60 seconds of idling. This is a simple habit that saves gallons over the course of a year.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Ford Explorer Gas Mileage

Does the 2017 Ford Explorer require premium gas?

The base 3.5L V6 is designed to run on 87-octane regular unleaded. While the EcoBoost engines can run on regular, Ford recommends premium fuel for “best overall performance,” especially when towing or in hot weather. Premium fuel can slightly improve 2017 ford explorer gas mileage in turbocharged models by allowing for more aggressive timing.

Why is my gas mileage lower in the winter?

Winter blend gasoline has lower energy density than summer blends. Additionally, the engine takes longer to reach its optimal operating temperature, and cold lubricants in the transmission and differentials create more internal friction.

Will a performance tuner improve my MPG?

Some aftermarket tuners claim to improve fuel economy by leaning out the fuel mixture. However, this can be risky for engine longevity. Most “eco” tunes simply dampen throttle response, which you can achieve for free by just driving more gently.

How much does a roof box affect my highway mileage?

A large cargo box can reduce your highway fuel economy by 2 to 4 MPG. If you aren’t using the box, removing it is one of the easiest ways to instantly improve your vehicle’s aerodynamics.

Final Thoughts on Maximizing Your Explorer’s Range

Managing your 2017 ford explorer gas mileage doesn’t require a degree in engineering, but it does require consistent maintenance and a mindful approach to driving. By keeping your tires properly inflated, ensuring your sensors are clean, and avoiding unnecessary weight, you can keep your SUV running at its peak efficiency.

Remember that a sudden drop in fuel economy is often your car’s way of telling you something is wrong. Don’t ignore a declining MPG gauge, as it could be the first sign of a clogged catalytic converter or a failing sensor that could lead to more expensive repairs down the road.

Take care of your Explorer, and it will take care of your wallet. Whether you are hitting the trails or the interstate, stay safe, keep your tire pressure in check, and enjoy the ride!

Robert Lozano
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