Comprehensive Safety Assessment of 2017 Ford Explorer
Intro
Understanding the factors influencing vehicle purchases is essential for automotive consumers, especially when safety is paramount. The 2017 Ford Explorer has various attributes that might attract buyers looking for reliable family transport. This section will explore the purchasing behavior in the context of safety ratings, tying the relevance of these considerations into consumer decision-making.
Vehicle Purchasing Behavior
When consumers look for a vehicle, multiple factors play a role in their choices. Certainly, safety features are at the top of the list for many potential buyers. Alongside safety, aspects such as price, fuel efficiency, brand reputation, and technological advancements also significantly influence decisions.
Factors Influencing Vehicle Purchases
- Safety Ratings: High safety ratings from institutions like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are crucial. Consumers often cross-reference these ratings when making a choice.
- Advanced Safety Features: Features like lane departure warning, automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control enhance the appeal of a vehicle.
- Price and Financing Options: A competitive price combined with attractive financing can sway a buyer’s decision.
- Fuel Economy: Increasing attention to environmental issues makes fuel efficiency a significant factor.
- Brand Loyalty: Past positive experiences can influence consumers to remain with a particular brand.
Demographics of Buyers
The demographic factors usually involve age, income, and lifestyle. Families, for instance, would likely prioritize safety and spaciousness, making the Ford Explorer a relevant option. High-income buyers may look towards advanced tech integrations and premium safety features. On the other hand, younger buyers might lean towards vehicles with affordability and good style, without compromising safety.
Market Insights and Analysis
The automotive market landscape is continually evolving, influenced by changing consumer preferences and behavior. Different demographics reveal insights into buying trends and brand reception.
Consumer Behavior Analysis
Analysis of consumer behavior indicates an increasing weight placed on safety ratings. Nearly 80% of buyers report that safety features write large when they buy a vehicle. This trend emphasizes the necessity of automotive companies to reinforce their focus on safety measures.
Competitor Analysis
For the 2017 Ford Explorer, the competition includes vehicles such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse. While the Explorer offers strong safety ratings, competitive models also emphasize advanced safety features. Evaluating these competitors can help potential buyers see where the Explorer stands. The market is saturated with options, but safety remains a unique selling proposition in this segment.
Preface to the Ford Explorer
The 2017 Ford Explorer holds a significant position in the competitive mid-size SUV market. Understanding its attributes, particularly in terms of safety, becomes essential not only for potential buyers but also for automotive enthusiasts and professionals alike. This section serves as a foundation for the subsequent analysis of the Explorer's safety ratings, demonstrating its relevance in today's automotive landscape.
Overview of the Explorer's Market Position
The Ford Explorer has long been regarded as a staple in the SUV segment. Its appeal lies in its capacity to blend performance, comfort, and practicality, making it a popular choice among families. In 2017, the Explorer continued to dominate sales, competing closely with rivals like the Chevrolet Traverse and Honda Pilot. The vehicle's large interior and multiple configuration options provide flexibility for various consumer needs.
While the 2017 model retains much of the design and features of its predecessors, it also offers modern technology aimed at enhancing both connectivity and safety. With a reputation for reliability, the Explorer works to maintain its loyal customer base while attracting new buyers looking for sophisticated yet functional vehicles.
Development and Evolution through Previous Models
The journey of the Ford Explorer began in the early 1990s, evolving through five generations up to 2017. Each iteration brought innovations in design and engineering, responding to shifting consumer preferences and safety standards. The transition from a traditional SUV to a more car-like crossover has marked significant improvements in safety and handling. Previous models focused on ruggedness, whereas the 2017 explorer reflects a shift towards efficiency and advanced safety features.
Over time, the Explorer integrated features such as electronic stability control and advanced airbag systems that contributed positively to its safety ratings. Consumer feedback and industry evaluations have driven these developments, showcasing Ford's commitment to continuous improvement. The 2017 Explorer, therefore, stands as a culmination of years of refinement, combining experience with modern demands.
Understanding Safety Ratings
Safety ratings play a vital role in the automotive landscape, forming an essential component in the decision-making process for potential buyers. When we talk about the 2017 Ford Explorer, understanding these safety ratings provides more than just numbers; they offer insights into the vehicle’s resilience in various crash scenarios and the effectiveness of its safety features. This context helps consumers gauge their risk exposure, especially for families and individuals prioritizing safety in their choice of vehicle.
The safety ratings conferred by authoritative bodies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reflect rigorous testing protocols that examine how vehicles perform in real-world situations. Ratings are not merely guidelines; they symbolize a vehicle's ability to protect its occupants during an accident, indicating its comprehensiveness in design and crash protection technologies. The decision today takes into consideration much more than aesthetic appeal or price—safety ratings inform consumers about the relative safety of their vehicle options, reinforcing the notion that peace of mind is integral to the driving experience.
Criteria for Safety Ratings
Safety ratings are derived from various criteria used by testing organizations during evaluations. Each aspect contributes to a comprehensive understanding of how a vehicle will perform in critical situations:
- Crashworthiness: This evaluates how well a vehicle can protect occupants in the event of a collision. The series of crash tests assess structural integrity and resilience during impacts.
- Crash Avoidance and Mitigation: This focuses on the effectiveness of a vehicle’s safety technologies, such as collision warning systems, automatic braking, and lane departure warnings. The ability of these systems to prevent accidents significantly sways the rating.
- Child Safety: This considers how well the vehicle can protect younger passengers. Evaluations often inspect the ease of use of child safety seats and the vehicle's compatibility with them.
Automakers are continually improving designs and incorporating advanced technologies to enhance safety. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety often updates its test criteria to align with current automotive standards, so ratings may change over time. This evolving landscape makes it imperative for consumers to stay informed and consider the latest data on their prospective vehicles.
Importance of Safety Ratings for Consumers
Safety ratings directly influence consumer choices. High ratings can enhance a model's market appeal, while lower ratings may deter potential buyers. Understanding trends in ratings allows consumers to make informed decisions that align with their safety expectations:
- Trust and Assurance: Consumers seek vehicles that offer solid performance records. High safety ratings often translate to reliability, giving buyers confidence in their choice.
- Insurance Implications: Vehicles that receive higher ratings may result in lower insurance premiums, as insurers consider safety metrics when calculating risk.
- Resale Value: Cars with excellent safety ratings typically maintain better resale value. This is due to the enduring appeal of safety features among used-car buyers.
Consequently, evaluating safety ratings becomes an integral process in vehicle shopping. As consumers navigate through choices, recognizing the importance of these ratings can lead to more secure and rational purchasing decisions. In the case of the 2017 Ford Explorer, knowing how it fares in safety ratings can greatly shape an informed opinion among potential buyers.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Evaluation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is a critical agency responsible for establishing safety standards for vehicles in the United States. Its evaluations are fundamental in ensuring that cars meet safety protocols essential for protecting occupants in various driving scenarios. The relevance of NHTSA's assessments for the 2017 Ford Explorer cannot be understated, as they provide a reliable benchmark for consumers seeking a vehicle known for its safety record. Evaluating the Explorer through the lens of NHTSA ratings allows potential buyers to understand the vehicle's performance in crash tests and its overall safety features, directly impacting their purchasing decisions.
NHTSA Testing Methodology
The NHTSA employs a rigorous testing methodology designed to simulate real-world collision scenarios. This methodology includes frontal, side, and rollover tests. Each test is conducted using controlled conditions and standardized procedures. During testing, crash test dummies equipped with sensors are used to gather data on potential impacts and injury risks.
Key aspects of NHTSA’s testing methodology include:
- Frontal Crash Tests
These assess how well a vehicle protects its occupants during a head-on collision. - Side Impact Crash Tests
These evaluate the car’s ability to withstand hits from the side, an area where many SUVs are vulnerable. - Rollover Tests
These results indicate how likely a vehicle is to roll over during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers.
NHTSA also evaluates crash avoidance technologies as part of its comprehensive assessment process. This structured approach ensures that consumers receive accurate safety ratings reflecting real performance on the road.
NHTSA Crash Test Results for the Explorer
The crash test results for the 2017 Ford Explorer have provided insightful data on its safety performance. The Explorer achieved strong results across key crash categories. Specifically, scores are typically rated from one to five stars, with five stars representing the highest level of safety. The Explorer excelled in side-impact crash tests, indicating effective protection for passengers.
However, results from frontal crash tests revealed some mixed outcomes, showcasing areas for improvement but still reflecting a solid overall safety performance. Many owners have reported confidence in the Explorer’s safety features based on these results. This data not only reflects manufacturer commitments to safety but also demonstrates the vehicle's readiness to protect its occupants.
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating
The overall safety rating from NHTSA for the 2017 Ford Explorer is a crucial factor for consumers. It combines performance from various crash tests and assessments of safety technologies. Generally, the Explorer received a commendable overall rating, positioning it favorably among competitors in the mid-size SUV segment. This rating signifies a level of trust that buyers can have in the Explorer's safety features.
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Assessment
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) plays a crucial role in evaluating the safety of vehicles, including the 2017 Ford Explorer. This assessment is significant not just for manufacturers, but also for consumers. IIHS ratings are based on scientific testing and provide insights into how well a vehicle can protect its occupants in various crash scenarios. Consumers rely on these ratings for making informed choices about vehicle safety and performance, especially when prioritizing family safety.
IIHS Testing Process Explained
The testing process conducted by IIHS is methodical and detailed. It involves multiple crash tests designed to simulate real-world accident scenarios. The key tests include:
- Moderate overlap front: This test simulates a front-end collision against a barrier, assessing the vehicle's structure and safety features.
- Side impact: This evaluates how well the vehicle protects occupants in a side collision, measuring intrusion into the cabin space.
- Roof strength: IIHS tests the vehicle's roof to determine how well it can withstand rollover accidents.
- Head restraints and seats: These components are assessed for their effectiveness in preventing whiplash injuries.
The results from these tests contribute to a comprehensive safety rating that is critical for consumers.
IIHS Vehicle Ratings Breakdown
The vehicle ratings issued by IIHS are straightforward yet detailed. The Explorer's ratings are categorized as follows:
- Good: The highest rating, indicating top performance in crash tests.
- Acceptable: A solid rating, but with some areas of concern.
- Marginal: This rating indicates significant issues that could compromise safety.
- Poor: The lowest rating, signaling serious safety deficiencies.
In the case of the 2017 Ford Explorer, the vehicle has generally received favorable ratings in most categories, indicating a robust safety performance. Specific areas where it excelled include front crash prevention technology and occupant protection during side impact scenarios.
IIHS Comparison with Competitors
When comparing the 2017 Ford Explorer to its competitors, such as the Chevrolet Traverse and Toyota Highlander, the Explorer stands out in several key aspects:
- Crashworthiness: The Explorer's ratings tend to exceed those of some competitors, showcasing better performance in various tests.
- Safety Features: IIHS evaluates advanced safety technologies. The Explorer is equipped with systems such as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking which provide advantages over rivals.
- Overall Value: While some competitors may have similar safety features, the Explorer's combination of performance and technology provides a compelling choice for safety-conscious buyers.
"IIHS assessments provide critical insights into vehicle safety, making them an essential consideration for any informed buyer."
In summary, the IIHS assessment of the 2017 Ford Explorer highlights its strengths in crashworthiness and safety technology. This information is vital for consumers looking to make educated decisions regarding vehicle safety.
Key Safety Features of the Ford Explorer
When assessing the 2017 Ford Explorer, understanding its safety features is essential. These features not only enhance passenger protection but also contribute significantly to overall driving confidence. The Explorer is equipped with a range of safety technologies that perform well in crash tests and provide advanced defensive capabilities for various driving conditions.
Standard Safety Equipment
The standard safety equipment in the 2017 Ford Explorer forms the backbone of its safety architecture. Some key elements include:
- Airbags: The Explorer includes front, side, and curtain airbags, which help minimize injury during collisions.
- Stability Control: This feature helps drivers maintain control of the vehicle in slippery or unstable conditions by adjusting engine power and applying brake force to individual wheels if necessary.
- Antilock Braking System (ABS): ABS prevents the wheels from locking during hard braking, allowing steering control and reducing the risk of skidding.
- Traction Control: This system reduces wheel spin during acceleration, which is particularly beneficial in adverse weather conditions.
Having these standard features allows the Ford Explorer to provide a solid foundation for safety, which can lead to better insurance rates and general peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
In addition to standard equipment, the 2017 Ford Explorer is offered with various advanced driver assistance systems that bolster its safety profile. These technologies represent a significant step toward reducing the risk of accidents. Some notable systems include:
- Blind Spot Monitoring: This system alerts drivers if another vehicle enters their blind spot, making lane changes safer.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Useful when backing out of parking spaces, this feature informs drivers of approaching cars.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: This maintains a safe following distance by adjusting the vehicle's speed to match the traffic flow.
- Lane-Keeping Assist: This technology helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, reducing the chance of unintentional lane departures.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: This system can detect an impending collision and apply brakes automatically, potentially avoiding or mitigating accidents.
Incorporating these advanced safety features reflects Ford's commitment to vehicle safety and innovation. They enhance the driving experience by offering additional layers of security, thus reassuring both buyers and their families.
"Safety should be a priority in all vehicle designs. The features in the 2017 Ford Explorer demonstrate how manufacturers are responding to consumer demands for better protection."
Impact of Safety Ratings on Consumer Choice
Understanding the impact of safety ratings is crucial for both vehicle buyers and manufacturers. The safety ratings directly inform consumers about how a vehicle performs in crash tests and its overall safety features. This influence shapes consumer perceptions, expectations, and decisions when it comes to purchasing a new vehicle.
Consumer Perceptions and Expectations
When consumers consider the 2017 Ford Explorer, safety ratings serve as a major predictor of reliability. Many buyers conflated high ratings with a reduced likelihood of accidents and injuries. This perception is more significant in family-oriented buyers who prioritize the safety of their passengers. A vehicle perceived as safe not only meets individual expectations but also earns the trust of potential buyers. In turn, positive perceptions often stem from third-party assessments by organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS. According to a survey conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, around 90% of respondents indicated they would consider safety ratings when deciding to purchase a vehicle.
Safety Ratings Influence on Purchasing Decisions
Safety ratings play an undeniable role in shaping the purchasing decisions regarding the 2017 Ford Explorer. Many consumers filter their choices based on how a vehicle performs in crash tests. A model that attains a high star rating is seen as better equipped to protect its occupants during an accident.
Research shows that purchasers are willing to pay more for vehicles that receive higher safety ratings. This willingness to invest more indicates how serious potential owners take the safety of their families. Additionally, buyers may take into account marketing messages that highlight high safety ratings, leading to increased visibility for models like the Ford Explorer.
In summary, safety ratings impact consumer choices in significant ways. They shape perceptions and serve as an anchor for decision-making in the automotive market. Understanding these connections helps both consumers and manufacturers in navigating the vehicle landscape.
Real-World Safety Performance
Real-world safety performance goes beyond controlled crash tests; it reflects how a vehicle behaves in unavoidable accidents among unconsidered variables. For the 2017 Ford Explorer, analyzing this aspect provides critical insights for potential buyers and owners alike. Evaluating real-world safety performance helps consumers understand how well the Explorer protects its occupants in actual crash scenarios, which can differ significantly from laboratory conditions.
Owner Feedback and Crash Data Analysis
Owner feedback serves as a valuable resource for assessing the real-world safety of the 2017 Ford Explorer. Many drivers share personal experiences concerning their vehicle during accidents, although these outcomes can be highly variable. Analysis of crash data from various sources reveals common trends and issues observed in the Explorer's performance.
For instance, owners have reported the Explorer's stability during collisions as a key strength. The vehicle tends to maintain its composure, helping to prevent rollovers—an important safety concern in SUVs. However, feedback also highlights some concerns, notably about visibility due to high belt lines. Poor visibility can impact the driver’s ability to notice potential hazards. Furthermore, individual experiences will vary, partially influenced by vehicle conditions and driving lifestyle.
- Common Points from Owner Feedback:
- Stability during accidents
- Concerns over visibility
- Ease of handling under normal driving conditions
Crash data further compliments this feedback, providing a more comprehensive picture. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Explorer’s crash statistics, which are compiled from reported incidences, show a reasonable correlation with owner accounts. Comparatively, other vehicle types, especially SUVs, have seen higher incidences of rollovers, which is a critical aspect of SUV safety that buyers should consider.
Comparative Analysis with Other SUVs
In the competitive SUV market, comparing the 2017 Ford Explorer against peers like the Chevrolet Traverse and Toyota Highlander helps illustrate its relative safety performance. While the Explorer has received commendable ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, understanding how it stacks up against similar vehicles can be enlightening.
When examining specific metrics, such as overall crash ratings or specific categories—like side impact tests—the Explorer fares moderately well against its rivals. For instance, the Chevrolet Traverse often scores higher in certain crash tests, while the Toyota Highlander has received favorable feedback related to its advanced safety technologies. Buyers may want to note these differences as they weigh options.
A few key considerations include:
- Overall crash test ratings
- Occupant protection in frontal collisions
- Advanced safety technologies offered
In summary, while the 2017 Ford Explorer shows a positive safety performance record, the nuances from owner feedback and crash data tell a more complex story. Potential buyers should take these insights into account alongside formal ratings to make informed choices regarding safety and reliability.
Culmination and Final Thoughts
In looking back over the safety performance of the 2017 Ford Explorer, it is important to recognize how this vehicle stands in an ever-evolving automotive market. The findings presented throughout this article highlight multiple facets of its safety ratings, demonstrating that these scores are not merely numbers but reflections of the vehicle’s capabilities in protecting its occupants.
Summing Up the Safety Ratings
The accumulative data from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reveal a balanced perspective on the Explorer. The vehicle has performed commendably in crash tests, securing a four to five-star rating in various dimensions. More specifically:
- NHTSA Ratings: The Explorer received high ratings for frontal and side crash scenarios. However, rollover risk was noted as a concern, leading to a lower score for that evaluation.
- IIHS Ratings: The Explorer managed to achieve the "Top Safety Pick" designation, demonstrating robust performance in both moderate overlap front and side tests.
Overall, while the Explorer excels in primary safety metrics, any potential buyer should remain conscious of the nuances in ratings, particularly concerning rollover risks. This assessment serves to arm consumers with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions based on hard data rather than mere specifications.
Future Recommendations for Buyers
As prospective buyers consider the 2017 Ford Explorer, there are several thoughts to take into account:
- Prioritize Safety Features: Look for models equipped with Ford's advanced driver-assistance systems, which may enhance safety per the driver’s unique needs.
- Compare with Peers: Evaluate the Explorer in relation to other vehicles in its class. SUVs such as the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander may provide alternative options worth investigating, especially in the context of safety ratings.
- Real-World Performance: Seek out owner feedback regarding the Explorer's real-world safety performance. Understanding how the vehicle performs in daily scenarios compared to test conditions can provide further insight.
Ultimately, the choice of vehicle must align closely with individual needs, lifestyle, and safety priorities. For families who value space and comfort alongside safety, the Explorer remains a strong contender, but educated decisions remain paramount.
"Safety ratings can significantly influence consumer choices; thus understanding them is vital in selecting the right vehicle."
This emphasis on thorough comprehension underscores the need for potential buyers to engage deeply with the safety attributes of the Explorer, ultimately guiding them toward the best choice in their vehicle purchasing journey.
