2017 Ford Explorer Steering Problems
NHTSA lists 76 steering complaints for the 2017 Ford Explorer, 4% of its 1,691 total complaints for the year, with a median failure mileage of 42,916. A related recall (17V530000) covers corroding steering gear heat shield fasteners.
- Steering complaints
- 76
- 4% of 1,691
- Crashes reported
- 1
- Fires reported
- 0
- Injuries reported
- 0
- Median mileage
- 42,917 mi
- Related recalls
- 1
Typical steering symptoms owners report
- Owners report sudden power steering lockup or seizure while driving, sometimes at highway speeds with no warning.
- Several describe the power steering warning indicator illuminating along with a "steering assist fault, service required" message before assist is lost.
- Some report intermittent power steering loss that resolves temporarily after turning the vehicle off and on, then fails permanently.
- A few describe the steering wheel becoming hard to turn during low-speed maneuvers like reversing or turning in snow.
- One owner reported a slight jerk in the steering wheel on curves that progressed to happening even while driving straight.
- Dealers in multiple cases told owners the vehicle was not covered by any recall despite the steering symptoms.
When 2017 Ford Explorer steering complaints were filed
First complaint Oct 12, 2016, latest Aug 13, 2026.
Steering recalls for the 2017 Ford Explorer
- NHTSA 17V530000Aug 28, 2017Steering253 vehicles
Steering
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Explorer, Taurus and Police Interceptor Utility and Sedan vehicles. The steering gear heat shield fasteners may corrode, allowing the heat shield to detach.
Risk: If the heat shield detaches, the steering gear may overheat, increasing the steering effort required by the driver, especially at lower speeds, and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers to inspect and replace the heat shield fasteners as needed, free of charge. The recall began on September 13, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S23.
Steering complaints by Explorer model year
Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.
Frequently asked questions
- How many steering complaints does the 2017 Ford Explorer have?
- NHTSA lists 76 steering complaints for the 2017 Explorer, which is 4% of the 1,691 total complaints filed for that model year.
- Is there a steering recall for the 2017 Ford Explorer?
- Yes, recall 17V530000 covers the 2017 Explorer for corroding steering gear heat shield fasteners that can allow the heat shield to detach; Ford's remedy is inspection and replacement of the fasteners.
- At what mileage do steering problems usually show up on the 2017 Explorer?
- The median mileage at failure for steering complaints on the 2017 Explorer is 42,916 miles.
- Did the 2017 Explorer's steering problems cause crashes?
- NHTSA data shows 1 crash and no fires or injuries linked to steering complaints on the 2017 Explorer.
- Is steering a bigger issue on the 2017 Explorer than other years?
- No, steering complaints made up only 4% of all 2017 Explorer complaints, far lower than years like 2011 (62%) and 2013 (37%).