The Ford Explorer is a well-known mid-size SUV that was introduced in 1990. The 2017 ford explorer is one of its most common models due to its striking appearance and durable engine.
However, car owners always care about possible engine issues, especially car transmissions.
Thus, in this article, we will focus on some 2017 ford explorer transmission problems and warning signs of the malfunction.
Let’s follow up to have a timely treatment plan and price estimation.
5 Common 2017 Ford Explorer Transmission Problems
The 2017 Ford Explorer transmission is famous for its durability, it still meets some transmission-related problems.
They can include low fluids or leakages, torque converter, solenoid, clutch, and PTU failure.
Transmission is a crucial component of a car, so read this part carefully to spot your issue.
Low Fluid Levels Or Leaks
One of the most prevalent 2017 ford explorer common problems is a lack of fluid levels due to fluid gushing out or leakage.
Seals in the car driveshaft or transmission can fail and let fluid escape. The leaks are a common cause of low levels of transmission fluid.
Transmission gasket seals may need to be changed occasionally to seal leaks in your transmissions. The fluid can also become polluted by the radiator coolant. This is known as cross-contamination.
Moreover, gear slippage or delayed shifting are typical signs of leaks or low fluid levels.
If the fluid is old or seriously polluted, it must be replaced, or the transmissions must be completely cleansed and refilled.
Torque Converter Issues
The main mission of the torque converter is to connect the power to the load.
It is often situated between the transmission and the engine’s flex plate. In a manual transmission, the corresponding place is the mechanical clutch.
Torque converters and 2017 explorer transmission can cause various issues that might lead to transmission damage or failure. Worn needle bearings are one of the most seen torque converter problems.
When the needle bearings grow warm, odd noises emanate from the transmission while driving gears.
When the car is in neutral, its transmission should produce no unusual noises, but it should create brushing or grinding sounds when driving.
Solenoid Damage
The solenoid regulates fluid flow throughout the transmission. Inadequate fluid levels or other electronic faults with the solenoid can frequently cause the solenoid to get damaged.
Solenoid problems are typically comparable to those caused by low fluid levels or leakage. If your 2017 Ford Explorer’s transmission is slipping, but there are no leakages, you need to examine the solenoid.
Clutch Problems
The clutch serves as a mechanical link between the transmission and the engine. It can disconnect and separate the engine from the transmission system for a limited time.
The drive wheels are disconnected when you press the clutch pedal, allowing you to shift gears smoothly. The clutch is in the torque converter and might become blocked sometimes.
In this situation, the solenoid can get locked, and the amount of transmission fluid in the torque converter cannot be measured accurately.
These torque converter clutch issues seem extremely similar to the signs of low fluid levels.
Clutch malfunctions also cause violent shaking beneath your vehicle and generate extremely high transmission heat levels. You should also notice a significant decrease in your engine’s power output.
All-Wheel Drive PTU Damage
The fifth-generation Ford Explorer (2011-2019) likely has PTU (Power Transfer Units) problems, which is the drivetrain component in charge of the vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system.
Hearing grinding, growling, or buzzing sounds that change with your vehicle’s speed is a sign of a failing or failed PTU.
It can stem from some transmission-related problems, such as low fluid from a leak and defective bearings, loose chains, and damaged gears.
If the PTU has failed, you will most likely be unable to drive the vehicle. When the PTU is just somewhat damaged, it may still be transportable, but it will be significantly underpowered.
Common Warning Signs Of 2017 Ford Explorer Transmission Issues
Problems with 2017 ford explorer’s transmission must be solved as soon as possible. It is because they can decrease vehicle capability and put all passengers at risk.
Thus, you should write down some warning signs of a transmission-related issue:
- A burning smell is often the result of deteriorated transmission fluid or worn interior components. Strange odors also indicate that your transmission fluid is combusting inside your car.
- If you hear a chance noise or a grinding sound (be it while idling or driving) or feel the gears catching, your gearbox probably needs more lube. Otherwise, something more serious could arise.
- One of the most obvious indicators is when your transmission swaps gears, but the results are delayed.
- In case the 2017 Ford Explorer transmission warning light is illuminated, this is a special indication of the transmission issue.
- Transmission fluid leaks are the most obvious indication that you want a transmission fluid change or possibly even an entire flush service. Although it is uncommon, leaks could show a problem with the transmission hose.
How Much Does It Cost To Repair A Ford Transmission?
Transmissions in automobiles are extremely complicated. It can be difficult to decide whether to rebuild or replace a damaged transmission.
Often, determining which components are damaging or failing is the deciding element.
Depending on the Ford motor company, a new 2017 Ford Explorer transmission can have a dealer selling price of more than $3,500.
Minor transmission services are less expensive if the transmission is not severely damaged.
For example, transmission fluid flushes and fluid changes are substantially more affordable, sometimes requiring less than $200.
In addition to replacing the transmission, a transmission flush can be used. However, it is more expensive than a standard fluid change.
This is mainly because of the time it takes to conduct a transmission flush.
Transmission cleansing involves refilling fluid in the pan and eliminating fluid from cooler lines and other related components.
A normal Ford Explorer transmission flush will need about 10 quarts of liquid to clean the system properly.
Conclusion
Even if the issue appears minor, you should never drive a car with a transmission failure. If gear swaps do not proceed as intended, the results could be disastrous.
Thus, when you see any warning signs of 2017 ford explorer transmission problems, you call a service center or a professional auto repair company as soon as feasible.
Besides, all car owners should have regular vehicle maintenance.
Thanks for reading, and see you in the next posts!