Ford Explorer 2017 Engine – A Comprehensive Reliability
The 2017 Ford Explorer offers three distinct powerplants: the fuel-efficient 2.3L EcoBoost, the dependable 3.5L Ti-VCT V6, and the high-performance 3.5L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost. This guide explores the technical nuances, common maintenance pitfalls like internal water pump failures, and DIY strategies to keep your SUV running smoothly for years to come.
Owning a full-size SUV means you demand a lot from your vehicle, whether you are towing a boat or navigating the daily school run. You need to know that your ford explorer 2017 engine is capable of handling the stress of high-mileage driving and varying weather conditions.
In this guide, we will break down the specific mechanical differences between the available engines and highlight the “pro-level” maintenance tasks you cannot afford to skip. By the end, you will have a clear roadmap for troubleshooting common issues and performing your own under-the-hood inspections with confidence.
We will focus on practical, safety-first advice that bridges the gap between a standard owner’s manual and a professional shop manual. Let’s dive into the heart of your Explorer and ensure it stays on the road—and off the tow truck.
Choosing the Right ford explorer 2017 engine for Your Needs
The 2017 model year was a sweet spot for the fifth-generation Explorer, offering three engines that cater to different driving styles. Understanding which one sits under your hood is the first step in proper maintenance and performance tuning.
The base 3.5L Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing) “Cyclone” V6 is a naturally aspirated workhorse. It is known for its linear power delivery and lack of turbocharger complexity, making it a favorite for those who prioritize long-term simplicity.
The 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder replaced the older 2.0L version, providing a significant boost in torque. This engine uses a twin-scroll turbocharger to minimize lag, making it feel surprisingly punchy in city traffic despite the vehicle’s heavy curb weight.
Finally, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, exclusive to the Sport and Platinum trims, transforms the Explorer into a performance machine. With two turbochargers and direct injection, it provides effortless towing and highway passing power but requires the most diligent maintenance schedule.
The 3.5L Ti-VCT V6: The Reliable Standard
This engine produces 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. It uses a timing chain rather than a belt, which theoretically lasts the life of the engine, though tensioner wear can occur over 150,000 miles.
The most critical design quirk of this engine is the internal water pump. Because the pump is driven by the timing chain inside the engine block, a leak can result in coolant mixing with your engine oil, which is a recipe for catastrophic bearing failure.
The 2.3L EcoBoost: Efficiency Meets Torque
Generating 280 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, this engine is the choice for the fuel-conscious driver. It features a high-pressure direct injection system that sprays fuel directly into the combustion chamber.
While efficient, this design means fuel never washes over the intake valves. Over time, carbon buildup can accumulate on the valves, leading to rough idling, reduced fuel economy, and occasional misfires under load.
The 3.5L EcoBoost: The Twin-Turbo Powerhouse
Standard on the Sport trim, this engine delivers 365 horsepower. It shares the same internal water pump design as the naturally aspirated V6 but adds the complexity of two turbochargers and intercooling piping.
Heat management is the biggest challenge for this engine. If you use your Explorer for heavy towing or live in a mountain environment, keeping the cooling system in peak condition is your number one priority.
Essential Maintenance for the ford explorer 2017 engine
To ensure the longevity of the ford explorer 2017 engine, you must look beyond the basic “oil change every 10,000 miles” recommendation often found in modern manuals. Real-world conditions—like stop-and-go traffic or dusty trails—require a more proactive approach.
The Intelligent Oil Life Monitor (IOLM) is a helpful tool, but many experienced mechanics recommend a 5,000-mile interval for synthetic oil changes. This is especially true for the EcoBoost engines, where the turbochargers rely on clean oil for cooling and lubrication.
Always use a high-quality Motorcraft FL-500S filter or an equivalent premium synthetic filter. These filters contain a silicone anti-drainback valve that prevents dry starts, which can cause premature wear on the timing chain and cam phasers.
Monitoring the Internal Water Pump
Since the water pump is hidden behind the timing cover on the 3.5L engines, you must check for “weep hole” leaks. Look for traces of dried orange or yellow coolant on the front of the engine block or near the AC compressor.
If you notice your coolant level dropping but see no puddles on the ground, check your oil dipstick immediately. If the oil looks like chocolate milk, stop driving immediately; the water pump seal has failed, and coolant is contaminating the oil.
Direct Injection and Valve Cleaning
For the EcoBoost variants, consider using a dedicated intake valve cleaner every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. This involves spraying a specialized solvent into the intake tract while the engine is running to dissolve carbon deposits.
Using top-tier gasoline with detergent additives also helps keep the fuel injectors clean. While it won’t clean the valves themselves, it ensures a proper spray pattern, which prevents “hot spots” in the cylinders that can cause pre-ignition.
Troubleshooting Common Engine Noises and Issues
A healthy ford explorer 2017 engine should hum smoothly, but specific sounds can tip you off to emerging problems. Learning to “listen” to your engine can save you thousands in major repair costs down the road.
A sharp “rattle” or “clatter” for two seconds upon a cold start is a classic symptom of cam phaser issues or a stretched timing chain. This is more common in the 3.5L EcoBoost and should be addressed before the timing skips and causes valve damage.
A high-pitched whistling or “whooshing” sound under acceleration usually indicates a boost leak in the turbocharger piping. Check the rubber boots and clamps on the intercooler for cracks or looseness, which are common DIY-friendly fixes.
Addressing the PTU Overheating Issue
While the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) is part of the drivetrain, it sits bolted to the ford explorer 2017 engine and transmission. It is notorious for overheating because it sits near the hot exhaust manifold.
If you smell a “burnt propane” or “cooking oil” scent after a long drive, your PTU fluid is likely scorched. Experts recommend changing this fluid every 30,000 miles, even though Ford originally labeled it as “filled for life.”
Dealing with Spark Plug Gaps
EcoBoost engines are very sensitive to spark plug gaps. Over time, the gap widens due to the high-pressure environment of a turbocharged cylinder, which can cause a “stutter” under heavy throttle.
Replace your spark plugs every 40,000 miles using Iridium-tipped plugs. Ensure they are gapped precisely to 0.030 inches (check your specific sub-model specs) to prevent ignition blow-out and maintain smooth power delivery.
DIY Performance and Cooling Upgrades
If you take your Explorer off-road or use it for frequent camping trips, the stock ford explorer 2017 engine cooling capacity might feel a bit limited. There are several bolt-on upgrades that can improve reliability under stress.
Installing a catch can on the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system is a popular mod for EcoBoost owners. It captures oil vapors before they reach the intake valves, significantly slowing down the rate of carbon buildup.
Upgrading to a 170-degree or 180-degree thermostat can help the engine run slightly cooler. This is particularly beneficial for the 3.5L EcoBoost Sport models, which generate significant under-hood heat during spirited driving.
Air Intake and Filtration
A high-flow dry air filter can improve throttle response without the risk of oil fouling the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. Avoid “oiled” filters, as the oil can migrate onto sensitive sensors and trigger a Check Engine Light.
Ensure the airbox lid is sealed tightly. A loose lid allows hot engine bay air to enter the intake, which reduces the density of the air-fuel mixture and robs the engine of horsepower.
Exhaust and Heat Shielding
Check the heat shields around the turbochargers and exhaust manifolds regularly. These shields prevent heat from soaking into the wiring harness and plastic components of the engine bay.
If a shield is rattling, do not just remove it. Use stainless steel hose clamps to secure it, as the heat protection is vital for the longevity of the surrounding rubber hoses and electrical connectors.
Safety First: When to Call a Professional
While many tasks on the ford explorer 2017 engine are DIY-friendly, some repairs require specialized tools and diagnostic equipment. Knowing your limits is essential for both your safety and the health of the vehicle.
If you encounter a blinking Check Engine Light, pull over immediately. A blinking light indicates a severe misfire that can melt your catalytic converters in a matter of minutes, leading to a much more expensive repair bill.
Internal water pump replacement on the 3.5L V6 is a massive job that involves removing the timing chain. Unless you are a very experienced mechanic with a full shop setup, this is a task best left to a licensed professional or a Ford dealership.
- Seek help if: You see white smoke from the exhaust (coolant burning).
- Seek help if: The engine makes a loud “knocking” sound that increases with RPM.
- Seek help if: You find metal shavings in the oil during a routine change.
- Seek help if: The vehicle enters “Limp Mode” with a wrench icon on the dash.
Always use a torque wrench when tightening spark plugs or valve cover bolts. Aluminum engine components are easily stripped, and a simple 10-minute job can turn into a weekend-long nightmare if a bolt snaps.
Frequently Asked Questions About the ford explorer 2017 engine
What is the most common problem with the 2017 Ford Explorer engine?
The most significant concern is the internal water pump failure on the 3.5L V6 engines. If the pump’s internal seal fails, it can leak coolant directly into the oil pan, causing engine seizure if not caught immediately.
Does the 2.3L EcoBoost have enough power for a full-size Explorer?
Yes, the 2.3L EcoBoost is surprisingly capable. Thanks to its 310 lb-ft of torque, it handles daily driving and light towing well. However, for maximum towing capacity (5,000 lbs), the 3.5L engines are generally preferred.
How long will a ford explorer 2017 engine last?
With meticulous maintenance, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 miles. The key is frequent oil changes (every 5k miles) and addressing cooling system leaks the moment they appear.
Which 2017 Explorer engine is best for towing?
The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is the towing king of the lineup. Its twin-turbocharged torque curve provides the most confidence when pulling trailers, especially on steep inclines or at high altitudes.
Conclusion: Keeping Your Explorer in Peak Condition
Maintaining your ford explorer 2017 engine is all about being proactive rather than reactive. Whether you have the efficient 2.3L I4 or the muscular 3.5L EcoBoost, the fundamentals of clean oil, fresh coolant, and carbon management remain the same.
By keeping an eye on the weep holes for the water pump and changing your PTU fluid regularly, you can avoid the most common “achilles heels” of this platform. Remember that a well-maintained engine is the key to a safe and reliable adventure, whether you are on the pavement or off the beaten path.
Take the time this weekend to pop the hood, check your fluid levels, and listen for any unusual sounds. Your Ford Explorer has the potential to be a long-term partner for all your travels—treat it well, and it will return the favor. Stay safe, stay prepared, and enjoy the drive!
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