2017 w/ 4cylinder experiences

[Mike_F]

I'm considering a 2017 XLT with the 4 cylinder. It has 90,000 miles and according to the ad, "towing equipment". I need to have towing capability of 2500 lbs+ so this is a must. This will be a seldom used truck but when I need it, I need it. My current vehicle for this purpose is a 2000 V8 but problems are piling up and it might be time to say goodbye. There is a possibility of a cross country trip w/o the trailer so reliability is an issue for that. What should I look for as far as known problems? FWIW, I've had three Explorers (two of which need transmission rebuilds) and like the size for carrying camping gear etc. I'm not concerned with frills, I just want as truck that works w/o pouring money into it. Thanks.

 

[J_C]

The 4 cyl is a 2.3L Ecoboost. Common issues not so easy to forecast ahead of time at that mileage and above include a head gasket leaking coolant into the cylinders, and intake valve carbon deposits that may eventually need walnut blasted away. If it's 4WD and the PTU fluid has never been changed, it may be about cooked by now.

Note that the 2.3L without a towing package has a 2000lb limit. There was a class II package available which may be what is on it or IDK what 3rd party options are available, raising the tow capacity to 3000lbs. With an expectation to tow 2500lbs+, I would seek one with a 3.5L and the class 3 tow package, raising the limit to ~5000lbs.

 

[peterk9]

I'm considering a 2017 XLT with the 4 cylinder. It has 90,000 miles and according to the ad, "towing equipment". I need to have towing capability of 2500 lbs+ so this is a must. This will be a seldom used truck but when I need it, I need it. My current vehicle for this purpose is a 2000 V8 but problems are piling up and it might be time to say goodbye. There is a possibility of a cross country trip w/o the trailer so reliability is an issue for that. What should I look for as far as known problems? FWIW, I've had three Explorers (two of which need transmission rebuilds) and like the size for carrying camping gear etc. I'm not concerned with frills, I just want as truck that works w/o pouring money into it. Thanks.

Welcome to the 5th gen Forum Mike.
The first thing I think you should do is to get an explanation of "towing equipment". As J_C mentioned, if it is not the factory-installed Class II Tow Package then it is designed to tow 2000 lbs.

Peter