2017 Ford F-150 Safety Report

2017 Ford F-150: High complaint volume and 16 recalls highlight significant powertrain, engine, and brake safety concerns.

1066Complaints
16Recalls
45/100Reliability Score
35Crash Reports
19Fire Reports
31Injuries
Most reported components: Power Train (196)Engine (180)Unknown Or Other (88)Structure (70)Service Brakes (46)Engine And Engine Cooling (45)Steering (34)Wheels (33)Latches/Locks/Linkages (30)Visibility/Wiper (28)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Ford F-150

The 2017 Ford F-150 presents a mixed safety picture, characterized by a significant number of owner complaints and a high volume of recalls, yet lacking official NHTSA crash test ratings for this specific model year. With 1066 total complaints, including 35 crashes, 19 fires, and 31 injuries, there are clear areas of concern. The most frequently reported issues revolve around the POWER TRAIN (196 complaints) and ENGINE (180 complaints), often detailing critical failures like sudden downshifts, engine rattling (cam phasers), and stalling. These mechanical issues, particularly those affecting the powertrain and engine, can directly impact vehicle control and increase crash risk. The recall history for the 2017 F-150 is extensive, with 16 recalls addressing a range of serious defects. Multiple recalls pertain to the SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC system, specifically master cylinder leaks that can lead to reduced brake function and increased stopping distances. Other critical recalls include issues with the POWER TRAIN (automatic transmission roll pin, shift linkage detachment) that can cause unintended vehicle movement or loss of drive, and ENGINE recalls related to block heater wiring that poses a fire risk. The presence of a recall for SEAT BELTS (pretensioner sparks causing fire) further highlights potential safety vulnerabilities. Despite the absence of specific NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2017 model, the sheer volume of complaints and the nature of the recalls suggest that while the vehicle's structural integrity in a crash is unknown, its operational reliability and component durability are significant concerns. The recurring themes of brake failure, transmission malfunctions, and engine issues, corroborated by both owner complaints and recall actions, indicate that drivers may face unexpected loss of control or vehicle function. The 19 reported fires and 31 injuries underscore the real-world consequences of these defects.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Ford F-150 receives a reliability score of 45 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 F-150

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Ford F-150:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Cam Phaser Failure
Loud rattling or knocking sound from the engine, especially on cold start, due to faulty cam phasers. Can lead to engine damage or stalling, impacting power brakes and control.		 High Common 50000-80000 miles
Transmission Malfunctions (10-Speed Automatic)
Sudden, violent downshifts at highway speeds, transmission locking up, or unintended vehicle rollaway due to issues like a faulty roll pin or lead frame. Can cause loss of control.		 High Common 40000-70000 miles
Brake Master Cylinder Leak
Brake fluid leaks from the master cylinder, leading to reduced front brake function, increased pedal effort, and extended stopping distances. Subject to multiple recalls.		 High Occasional Varies miles
Engine Block Heater Fire Risk
Corrosion in the engine block heater cable can cause a resistive short, leading to overheated or melted wiring and increasing the risk of fire. Subject to recall.		 High Rare Varies miles
Oil Pan Leak (2.7l Ecoboost)
Oil pan leaks due to poor RTV adhesion at the seal, a known manufacturing defect.		 Medium Occasional 30000-70000 miles
Wiper System Malfunction
Windshield wipers fail to turn off or operate intermittently, creating visibility hazards in adverse weather.		 Medium Occasional Varies miles
Door Latch/Actuation Cable Issues
Bent or kinked door actuation cables can prevent doors from latching properly, potentially causing them to open while driving. Subject to recall.		 Medium Occasional Varies 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 F-150:

Power Train 18% of complaints

Frequent complaints about automatic transmission issues, including harsh shifting, sudden downshifts, and unintended vehicle movement, often linked to specific recalls.

Engine 17% of complaints

Numerous reports of engine rattling (cam phasers), stalling, and other performance issues, with some leading to significant repairs or engine replacement.

Service Brakes 4% of complaints

Complaints about reduced braking effectiveness, increased pedal travel, and abnormal noises, often related to master cylinder leaks addressed by multiple recalls.

Structure 7% of complaints

Reports of frame components breaking, such as lower control arm mounts, leading to loss of wheel control.

Latches/Locks/Linkages 3% of complaints

Issues with door latches and actuation cables, potentially causing doors to open unexpectedly.

Visibility/Wiper 3% of complaints

Problems with windshield wipers failing to operate correctly or turn off, impacting driver visibility.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Ford F-150

Is the 2017 Ford F-150 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Ford F-150 has a concerning safety record with 1066 total complaints, 35 crashes, 19 fires, and 31 injuries. While official crash test ratings are unavailable, the vehicle has been subject to 16 recalls addressing critical issues like brake failure, transmission malfunctions, and fire risks, indicating significant safety vulnerabilities.

What are common problems with the 2017 Ford F-150?

The most reported issues for the 2017 Ford F-150 are related to the POWER TRAIN (196 complaints) and ENGINE (180 complaints), often involving cam phaser failures, sudden transmission downshifts, and unintended vehicle rollaway. Other significant problems include brake master cylinder leaks and structural frame issues.

Are there any recalls for the 2017 Ford F-150?

Yes, the 2017 Ford F-150 has a substantial recall history with 16 recalls. These include critical issues such as brake master cylinder leaks, transmission roll pin defects causing unintended vehicle movement, engine block heater wiring fire risks, and seat belt pretensioner fire hazards.

Does the 2017 Ford F-150 have transmission problems?

Yes, the 2017 Ford F-150, particularly models with the 10-speed automatic transmission, has common and severe transmission problems. These include sudden violent downshifts, transmission locking up, and unintended vehicle rollaway, which have been addressed by multiple recalls.

What engine issues are common in the 2017 Ford F-150?

Common engine issues for the 2017 Ford F-150 include widespread cam phaser failures, leading to loud rattling noises, and in some cases, engine stalling or damage. There are also recalls related to engine block heater wiring posing a fire risk.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the high volume of complaints, numerous recalls, and critical safety issues related to the powertrain, engine, and brakes, potential buyers should proceed with extreme caution and ensure all 16 recalls have been addressed. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, focusing on these known problem areas, is highly recommended.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Ford F-150

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Ford F-150. The data includes 1066 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 16 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 35 reported crashes, 19 fire incidents, 31 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

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.