2017 Ford Explorer electrical problems

Filed Oct 14, 2026 · Body, Electrical · WI

B-Pillar trim on drivers side detached/broke in half and flew off in traffic. Since then, electrical panel on the driver door messed with the locks. locks no longer work, back tailgate ajar warning is on (even though the tailgate is closed) unable to open to open the tailgate (stuck in lock)

Filed Jul 29, 2026 · Electrical · FL · fire

The vehicle ACM shorted and caused a fire while driving. My safety was put as risk because the car quickly filled with smoke and unbearable fumes causing me to swerve and attempt to find a safe place to pull over.

Filed Jul 27, 2026 · Electrical, Steering · ID

Begin with cliff, I was not wanting to lock or locked or start the vehicle as I was driving. I stopped at the light vehicle started shaking, and as I drove through the light to pull over power steering assist failure, terrain, failure, and control failure.

Filed Jul 16, 2026 · Body, Electrical · 90,000 miles · PA

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 25V347000 (Structure). While driving approximately 60 MPH, the driver's side B-pillar trim detached and flew off the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the residence, inspected, and confirmed that the driver’s side B-pillar trim was missing. The contact stated that the electrical system on the tailgate had stopped working as intended. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was determined that the tailgate would not open because the electrical system was disconnected, and the trim had fallen off. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds, the dome light remained illuminated and turned off approximately 4-5 seconds later. Additionally, while the vehicle was in reverse(R) on several occasions, the dome light illuminated, and the contact was unable to see out of the rear window. The vehicle was not repaired because parts for the recall repair was not yet available. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Filed Jul 6, 2026 · Electrical, Lights · GA

The trunk does not open. The lift gate error message comes on. The lights stay on longer than they should and the battery is drained. This all resulted after the b pillar flew off on the high way. I have had duct tape on my car for over a year and unable to access the trunk.

Filed May 8, 2026 · Electrical · 80,758 miles · IL

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. The contact was provided a report at the time of the purchase by the dealer. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 55717. After obtaining the Carfax report, it was discovered that the mileage was 80,758. No other agency was contacted. The VIN was not provided.

Filed Apr 28, 2026 · Body, Electrical · CA

While driving on the freeway the exterior b-pillar became partially detached from the drivers side of vehicle, causing the pillar to hang off the side. Very unsafe as it can strike another vehicle, or pedestrian. Part is now being held on by duct tape so it stays in place. The b-pillar part is attached to the electronic key number pad. Since this part was detached, the dome lights inside of the vehicle, stay illuminated for 10 mins after exiting. When entering the vehicle and turning it on to drive, the dome lights will not turn off until a speed of 5-10 MPH is reached. I have noticed abnormal car battery drainage because of these events. Additionally, the rear lift-gate no longer functions since the b-pillar detachment. Unable to open rear lift-gate at all. Unable to use the electronic keypad. Spoke to the dealership at least 10 times now and the same reason is given: “we have not received the parts.” They have stated that the parts were ordered for my vehicle in November of 2025. It is now the end of April 2026. Notice of this recall was 5-23-2025

Filed Apr 13, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · OH

Vehicle experienced white exhaust smoke due to oil entering the exhaust system, caused by turbocharger failure. This led to contamination and failure of all O2 sensors, requiring full replacement, along with replacement of both turbochargers. The radiator also failed and had to be replaced. This appears to be a cascading mechanical failure affecting multiple major systems, including the engine, fuel/propulsion system, and electrical components, rather than normal wear and tear. The failure rendered the vehicle inoperable, leaving me without transportation during a period of financial hardship. The severity and extent of repairs raise concern about a potential broader defect. This also created a safety concern due to excessive exhaust smoke and reduced vehicle reliability while in operation.

Filed Apr 2, 2026 · Electrical, Lights · DC

Vehicle equipped with operation red and blue auxiliary emergency lights, prohibited and protected by law for law enforcement use only, facilitates impersonation of a police officer, false detention, harassment, legal scrutiny for police, seller has actual knowledge, strictly liable upon a purchase agreement with a buyer, and can be liable for crimes committed by another by aiding an offender under the color of law. Vehicle has open recalls, mechanical/electrical/lighting issues and requires maintenance.

Filed Apr 2, 2026 · Body, Electrical · DC

Vehicle contains traces of cychlorphine, labeled as "POLICE," facilitates criminal activity impersonation of a police officer, seller has actual knowledge and can be liable under color of law upon purchase agreement. Safety risk for buyer, and the general public for false police pretenses, harassment, and actual police scrutiny. Vehicle has open recall.