2017 Ford Explorer: Structure complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 662 owner complaints for the 2017 Ford Explorer that list the structure component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11771073 (filed 10/14/2026): “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)…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11767832 (filed 09/29/2026): “B-pillar is coming off, not allowing keypad to lock/unlock. remedy has not come available in over a year.…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11764718 (filed 09/16/2026): “The contact owns a 2017 ford explorer. the contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 25v347000 (structure); however, the part to perform the recall repair was unavailable. the contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. the conta…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Varies
Depends on the specific failure; get a diagnosis first. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
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