2017 Ford Expedition Safety Report
2017 Ford Expedition: Strong Crash Ratings Mask Persistent Brake, Camera, and Fire Risks
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Ford Expedition
Reliability Score
The 2017 Ford Expedition receives a reliability score of 60 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2017 Ford Expedition
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Ford Expedition:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rearview Camera Failure Camera intermittently displays a blank, distorted, or inverted image, or shows a 'camera unavailable' message, increasing crash risk when reversing. Subject to NHTSA Recall 25V572. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Brake Master Cylinder Fluid Leak Brake fluid may leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster, causing reduced brake function, increased pedal effort, and extended stopping distances. Subject to NHTSA Recall 25V236. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Front Blower Motor Failure The front blower motor located behind the glove box may fail, increasing the risk of a vehicle interior fire. Subject to NHTSA Recall 22V648. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Sudden Transmission Downshifting/Failure Vehicle may suddenly downshift to a lower gear at speed or fail to engage gears, leading to dangerous situations and loss of power. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Coolant Leak Into Starter/Engine Issues Coolant leaks, potentially from the water pump, can lead to engine noise, overheating, and even damage to the starter, preventing the vehicle from starting. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Ford Expedition:
Frequent complaints related to general electrical issues, often tied to visibility systems like the rearview camera.
Numerous reports of brake issues, including reduced function, increased pedal effort, and master cylinder leaks, leading to extended stopping distances.
Specific complaints about the hydraulic braking system, particularly master cylinder failures and fluid leaks.
Problems combining electrical faults with visibility components, predominantly rearview camera malfunctions.
Issues related to the transmission, including sudden downshifts and failure to engage gears.
High number of complaints regarding the rearview camera system, including blank, distorted, or inverted images.
Reports of engine-related problems such as coolant leaks, loss of power, and check engine lights.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Ford Expedition
Is the 2017 Ford Expedition safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Ford Expedition received excellent 5-star crash test ratings for overall, frontal, and side impacts, with a 4-star rollover rating. However, it has 336 total complaints, 20 crashes, 7 fires, and 27 injuries reported to NHTSA. There are significant safety concerns highlighted by 4 recalls, particularly for rearview camera failures, brake master cylinder leaks, and a fire risk from the blower motor. While it performs well in crash tests, real-world reliability of key safety systems is questionable.
What are common problems with the 2017 Ford Expedition?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Ford Expedition are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (33 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (32 complaints), and BACK OVER PREVENTION (20 complaints), primarily due to rearview camera malfunctions. Other common problems include POWER TRAIN issues (24 complaints) like sudden downshifting, and ENGINE problems (20 complaints) such as coolant leaks.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Ford Expedition?
Yes, the 2017 Ford Expedition has 4 recalls. Key recalls include NHTSA 25V572 for rearview camera failure, NHTSA 25V236 for brake master cylinder fluid leaks that can reduce braking effectiveness, and NHTSA 22V648 for front blower motor failure which poses a fire risk.
How does the 2017 Ford Expedition perform in crash tests?
The 2017 Ford Expedition performs very well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a 5-star Overall Safety Rating. It also received 5 stars for Frontal Crash and Side Crash tests, and 4 stars for the Rollover test.
Should I be concerned about the brakes on a 2017 Ford Expedition?
Yes, there is a significant concern regarding the brakes. 'SERVICE BRAKES' and 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC' are among the top complaint categories, with 32 and 26 complaints respectively. Furthermore, NHTSA Recall 25V236 specifically addresses a brake master cylinder issue that can lead to reduced brake function and increased stopping distances, directly impacting safety.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of significant safety recalls and common complaints regarding the rearview camera, braking system, and a fire risk from the blower motor. Thoroughly check if all recalls have been addressed and consider an independent inspection focusing on these known issues.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Ford Expedition
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Ford Expedition. The data includes 336 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 20 reported crashes, 7 fire incidents, 27 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Ford Expedition an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.