Swapped My Toyota Highlander for a Ford Explorer Following Two Unsuccessful Transmissions, Now Find Solace in Escaping the Chaotic Journey
Headline: Sara Switches Vehicles Amidst Transmission Issues: 2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2017 Toyota Highlander
Sara Winchester, a car owner in search of a reliable vehicle, has recently made a change, trading her 2017 Toyota Highlander for a 2025 Ford Explorer. This decision, however, has sparked debate over the reliability of these two popular SUVs.
The 2025 Ford Explorer, while offering strong performance, good technology, and a family-friendly interior, has been reported to have more notable transmission issues compared to the 2017 Toyota Highlander. These issues revolve around Ford's 10-speed 10R80 transmission, which has been known for slippage, jerking, delayed shifting, and related defects. These problems have led to multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), a recall affecting 2025 models including the Explorer, and ongoing class action lawsuits, indicating unresolved reliability concerns.
In contrast, the 2017 Toyota Highlander has a stronger reputation for transmission reliability. While no specific data on the 2017 Highlander’s transmission issues is readily available, Toyota’s transmissions are generally regarded as more durable in that model year range, and the Highlander has not triggered major recalls or TSBs similar to those seen on the Ford Explorer.
Specific common transmission issues with the 2025 Ford Explorer include slippage, loss of drive, check engine lights, metal shavings in fluid, and torque converter failures. Ford’s technical fixes include valve body reprogramming, component replacement, and a redesigned drum assembly, but consumer confidence remains uncertain due to persistent problems and active litigation.
The 2017 Toyota Highlander, equipped typically with a robust automatic transmission, does not have comparable reported issues or recalls for transmission failures.
Sara's decision to switch vehicles has raised questions about the Explorer's reliability compared to the Highlander. However, it's important to note that the Explorer comes with a bumper-to-bumper warranty, providing peace of mind for new owners like Sara.
The 2017 Toyota Highlander, despite its initial warranty for the transmission being 5 years/60,000 miles, has been known to experience transmission issues, including delayed or harsh shifting, potential complete failure, gear slipping, rough or delayed shifting, fluid leaks, whining noises, hesitation when accelerating, unresponsive gears, and complete transmission failure.
Consumer Reports' Predicted Reliability Rating for the 2025 Ford Explorer is 45/100, significantly lower than the Highlander's rating of 65/100. This rating suggests that the Highlander may be a more reliable choice for car owners.
It's worth noting that there are reports of reliability and quality issues with the latest model year of the Ford Explorer, though some sources suggest these are isolated incidents.
Sara's experience with her 2017 Toyota Highlander involved two transmission failures within a year, with the transmission issues including a whining noise at 45 mph, which an independent transmission shop attributes to the transfer case. Despite her vehicle falling within the date range for the faulty transmission, Toyota corporate claimed that there is no customer support program bulletin for Sara's VIN.
Another 2017 Toyota Highlander owner, Reddit user Arestocles, has also experienced transmission issues, with the dealer having the vehicle for eight months for repairs and stating it may take another four months due to backorder.
In conclusion, based on current evidence of ongoing transmission faults and recalls with the 2025 Ford Explorer, it appears that the 2017 Toyota Highlander is likely more reliable, particularly when it comes to common transmission problems. However, it's crucial for potential buyers to research their vehicles thoroughly and consider their unique needs and preferences when making a decision.
Read also:
- Quipt Home Medical posts enhanced financial results for the third quarter of 2025
- Financial predicament in Ludwigsburg: Notable athlete joins a fresh sports team at the national level
- Two people perished and multiple others were hurt in an explosion at a US Steel facility located in Pennsylvania.
- Airport emergency: Videos show car blaze at Virginia airport
