2017 Ford Explorer Tire Pressure – The Expert Guide To Better
Maintaining the correct 2017 ford explorer tire pressure is essential for maximizing fuel efficiency, ensuring even tread wear, and maintaining vehicle stability. This guide provides the specific PSI settings for all trim levels, troubleshooting steps for the TPMS light, and professional tips for different driving conditions.
We all know that sinking feeling when the low tire pressure light pops up on the dashboard during a morning commute. It is easy to ignore, but keeping your 2017 ford explorer tire pressure at the right levels is one of the easiest ways to save money and stay safe.
In this guide, I will show you exactly where to find your specifications, how to adjust them for towing or off-roading, and how to fix that stubborn warning light. Whether you are a weekend DIYer or a daily commuter, these steps will help you master your vehicle’s maintenance.
By the end of this article, you will understand how temperature affects your tires and why the “Max PSI” on the sidewall is not the number you should be looking for. Let’s dive into the technical details of your Ford Explorer’s footprint.
The Factory Recommended 2017 ford explorer tire pressure
For the vast majority of 2017 Ford Explorer models, the manufacturer recommends a cold tire pressure of 35 PSI (pounds per square inch). This applies to the Base, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum trim levels, regardless of whether you have the 2.3L EcoBoost, the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6, or the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.
It is important to note that maintaining your 2017 ford explorer tire pressure consistently at this level ensures the Intelligent 4WD system functions correctly. Discrepancies in pressure between the four tires can cause the system to work harder than necessary, potentially leading to premature wear on the drivetrain components.
While 35 PSI is the standard, always verify your specific vehicle’s needs by checking the tire and loading information placard. This sticker is located on the driver’s side B-pillar, which is the frame visible when you open the driver’s door. It will list the original equipment tire size and the specific pressure required for the front, rear, and spare tires.
Variations Based on Tire Size
The 2017 Ford Explorer typically comes with two main tire sizes: 245/60R18 or 255/50R20. While the recommended pressure remains 35 PSI for both, the 20-inch wheels have a shorter sidewall. This makes them more susceptible to rim damage if the pressure drops too low, especially when hitting potholes or curbs.
If you have upgraded your wheels to an aftermarket size, the factory 35 PSI might no longer be the ideal setting. In these cases, you should consult a tire professional to calculate the correct load-inflation pressure for your specific setup to ensure the tire can still support the vehicle’s weight safely.
The Importance of Cold Pressure
When we talk about checking the 2017 ford explorer tire pressure when the tires are cold, we mean the vehicle has been stationary for at least three hours. Alternatively, you can check them if the vehicle has been driven less than a mile at moderate speeds.
Driving generates heat through friction, which causes the air inside the tire to expand and the pressure to rise. If you check your tires immediately after a long highway drive, you might see a reading of 38 or 40 PSI. Do not let air out to reach 35 PSI in this state, as you will end up under-inflated once the tires cool down.
Where to Find Your Tire Pressure Specifications
If you are ever in doubt, the most reliable source for your vehicle’s data is the tire information placard. As mentioned, this is located on the driver’s side door jamb. It is a yellow and white sticker that provides the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and specific tire data.
Another reliable source is your owner’s manual. Ford provides a comprehensive breakdown of maintenance schedules and fluid capacities, including tire specifications, in the “Wheels and Tires” section. If you have lost your physical copy, Ford offers digital versions on their official website.
Avoid the common mistake of looking at the tire sidewall for the pressure setting. The number molded into the rubber, often 44 or 51 PSI, is the maximum pressure the tire can hold at its maximum load capacity. Inflating your tires to this number will result in a harsh ride, poor traction, and accelerated wear on the center of the tread.
Tools of the Trade: What You Need for Accurate Readings
To manage your tire maintenance like a pro, you need the right tools. A high-quality tire pressure gauge is the most important item in your kit. While the 2017 Ford Explorer has a built-in Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a manual check is always more accurate for fine-tuning.
- Digital Pressure Gauge: These provide an easy-to-read backlit display and are usually accurate to within 0.5 PSI.
- Analog Dial Gauge: Favored by many mechanics, these are durable and do not require batteries, making them great for emergency kits.
- Portable Air Compressor: A 12V compressor that plugs into your Explorer’s accessory outlet can save you a trip to the gas station.
- Tread Depth Tool: Since you are already checking the air, use this tool to ensure you have at least 4/32″ of tread for safety.
I recommend keeping a small “tire care kit” in the storage compartment beneath the rear cargo floor. Including a pair of work gloves and a small flashlight will make checking the 2017 ford explorer tire pressure much easier if you have to do it at night or in poor weather conditions.
Step-by-Step: How to Check and Adjust Your Tire Pressure
Checking the 2017 ford explorer tire pressure is a straightforward process that takes less than ten minutes. Follow these steps to ensure accuracy and safety.
- Park on a Level Surface: Ensure the vehicle is flat so the weight is distributed evenly across all four tires.
- Remove the Valve Cap: Unscrew the cap from the valve stem and place it somewhere safe, like your pocket, so it does not get lost.
- Press the Gauge Firmly: Place the tire gauge onto the valve stem. You might hear a brief hiss of air; press harder until the hissing stops and you get a reading.
- Compare to the Placard: If the reading is below 35 PSI, you need to add air. If it is above, you should release some air.
- Adjust as Needed: Use an air compressor to add air in small bursts. Check the pressure frequently to avoid overshooting your target.
- Replace the Cap: The valve cap is not just for looks; it keeps dirt and moisture out of the valve core, which prevents leaks.
Do not forget to check the spare tire. The 2017 Ford Explorer typically uses a compact “donut” spare. These require much higher pressure than standard tires, usually 60 PSI. Finding out your spare is flat while you are stranded on the side of the road is a mistake you only make once.
Understanding the TPMS: Why the Light Stays On
The 2017 Ford Explorer uses a Direct TPMS, which means there are actual sensors mounted inside each wheel on the valve stem. These sensors transmit real-time data to the vehicle’s computer. If the pressure in any tire drops about 25% below the recommended level, the horseshoe-shaped warning light will illuminate.
If you have adjusted your 2017 ford explorer tire pressure to the correct 35 PSI and the light remains on, you may need to drive the vehicle for a few miles. Most Ford systems require the vehicle to be driven above 20 mph for about 10-15 minutes to reset the sensors and update the dashboard display.
Common TPMS Issues
Sometimes the light stays on even when the pressure is perfect. This can happen for several reasons. One common cause is a dead battery inside the sensor itself. These batteries are designed to last 5 to 10 years, and as a 2017 model ages, sensor failure becomes more likely.
Another issue occurs during tire rotations. If the tires are moved to different corners of the car, the computer might still think the front-left tire is the rear-right. While the Explorer usually “re-learns” positions automatically, sometimes a manual TPMS reset procedure is required using a specialized tool or a specific sequence of ignition turns and pedal presses.
The Hazard Button Reset Trick
If you need to manually trigger the “Train Mode” for your sensors, Ford has a built-in sequence. With the engine off, turn the ignition to the “On” position without starting the engine. Push the hazard light button six times within five seconds. If successful, the horn will honk, indicating the system is ready to learn the new sensor positions.
Special Scenarios: Towing, Off-Roading, and Winter Driving
While 35 PSI is the “gold standard” for everyday driving, certain situations require a more nuanced approach to adjusting your 2017 ford explorer tire pressure.
Towing and Heavy Loads
If you are hitching up a trailer or filling the cargo area with heavy camping gear, the rear tires will be under significantly more stress. While you should never exceed the maximum PSI listed on the tire sidewall, some experts recommend increasing the rear tire pressure by 3-5 PSI (up to about 38-40 PSI) to improve stability and reduce heat buildup.
Increased pressure helps the tire maintain its shape under the extra weight, which prevents the sidewalls from flexing excessively. Excessive flexing leads to heat, and heat is the primary cause of tire blowouts when towing. Always return the pressure to 35 PSI once the trailer is unhooked.
Off-Roading Adventures
For those taking their Explorer onto soft sand or loose gravel, “airing down” is a common tactic. Reducing the pressure to 20-25 PSI increases the tire’s footprint, providing better “flotation” over soft surfaces. This significantly improves traction in deep sand.
However, you must be extremely careful. Driving at low pressure on pavement will damage the tires quickly. Furthermore, if the pressure is too low, you risk the tire bead unseating from the rim. Always carry a portable air compressor so you can re-inflate to 35 PSI before heading back onto the highway.
Winter Weather Challenges
Physics dictates that air contracts when it gets cold. For every 10-degree drop in outside temperature, your tire pressure will drop by approximately 1 PSI. This is why the TPMS light often appears on the first cold morning of autumn.
In regions with harsh winters, check your pressure more frequently. Under-inflated tires in the winter lead to poor steering response and longer braking distances on icy roads. Keeping them at 35 PSI ensures the sipes (the tiny slits in the tread) can open up and grip the snow as designed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Inflating Your Tires
Even experienced DIYers can make mistakes when it comes to tire maintenance. Avoiding these pitfalls will extend the life of your rubber and keep your suspension components healthy.
- Trusting Gas Station Gauges: The gauges built into public air hoses are notoriously inaccurate. They are often dropped, stepped on, or weathered. Always use your own personal gauge to verify the final reading.
- Over-inflating for “Better MPG”: Some drivers think pumping tires to 45 PSI will reduce rolling resistance and save gas. While technically true, the trade-off is dangerous. You lose significant traction, and your braking distance increases because the tire’s contact patch is smaller.
- Ignoring the Valve Stems: When checking pressure, look for cracks or dry rot on the rubber valve stems. If the stem is leaking, no amount of air will keep the tire inflated.
- Using “Fix-a-Flat” as a Permanent Solution: Aerosol tire sealants are for emergencies only. They can gum up the TPMS sensors and throw the wheel out of balance. If you use it, get the tire professionally repaired as soon as possible.
Another mistake is failing to rotate the tires. Ford recommends rotating tires every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. During the rotation, the technician should always reset the 2017 ford explorer tire pressure to 35 PSI, as the front and rear tires may have worn differently and require slight adjustments to stay balanced.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 ford explorer tire pressure
What is the correct tire pressure for a 2017 Ford Explorer Sport?
The 2017 Ford Explorer Sport, which usually comes with 20-inch wheels, still requires 35 PSI for all four tires. Despite the higher horsepower and performance-tuned suspension, the factory load rating remains consistent with other trims.
Can I drive with the TPMS light on?
You should not drive long distances with the light on. If the light is solid, it means at least one tire is significantly low. If the light is flashing, it indicates a fault with the TPMS system itself. In either case, check the pressure manually immediately.
Does tire pressure affect the 4WD system?
Yes. The Intelligent 4WD system on the 2017 Explorer monitors wheel speed. If one tire is significantly under-inflated, it has a smaller rolling circumference and spins faster than the others. This can trick the computer into thinking a wheel is slipping, causing unnecessary engagement of the 4WD system.
How long do 2017 Ford Explorer TPMS sensors last?
Typically, these sensors last between 5 and 10 years. Since the 2017 model is now several years old, it is common for the internal batteries to begin failing. If your pressure is correct but the light won’t go off, a sensor replacement is likely needed.
Conclusion: Stay Proactive for a Smoother Ride
Taking care of your 2017 ford explorer tire pressure is one of the most cost-effective maintenance tasks you can perform. By keeping your tires at the recommended 35 PSI, you ensure that your vehicle handles as the engineers intended, protecting both your family and your investment.
Remember to check your tires at least once a month and before any long road trips. Pay attention to the change in seasons, and don’t forget that often-neglected spare tire in the trunk. A little bit of attention to the “shoes” of your vehicle goes a long way in preventing breakdowns and expensive repairs.
Stay safe, keep an eye on those gauges, and enjoy the road ahead in your Ford Explorer!
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