2017 Ford Explorer Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)

The 2017 Ford Explorer is a robust and popular mid-size SUV. Following the 2016 facelift, Ford introduced standard LED low beam headlights across the lineup, significantly improving nighttime visibility. However, many other bulbs on the vehicle—like the high beams and turn signals—remained halogen on several trim levels.

As an ASE-certified master technician, I’ve put together this comprehensive bulb size reference guide to help you find the correct replacements for your 2017 Ford Explorer, whether you drive a Base, XLT, Limited, Sport, or Platinum.

Quick reference

Note: The 2017 Explorer features factory LED low beams integrated into the headlight housing. If your low beam fails, the entire headlight assembly typically needs to be replaced or repaired by a specialist. Limited, Sport, and Platinum trims often feature integrated LED fog lights and signature DRLs.

LED vs halogen upgrade considerations

Upgrading your remaining halogen bulbs to LED is a popular modification for the 2017 Explorer, particularly for the 9005 high beams, H11 fog lights, and 921 reverse lights. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• CANBUS Errors and Hyperflashing: The Explorer's Smart Junction Box (SJB) monitors electrical resistance. If you upgrade your 3157 or 3457 turn signals to LED, you will likely experience hyperflashing. You will need to install load resistors or purchase premium LED bulbs with built-in CANBUS anti-flicker technology.
• High Beam DRL Issues: If your vehicle uses the high beam as a DRL running at a lower voltage, dropping an LED into the 9005 slot can cause flickering. A CANBUS decoder/anti-flicker harness is usually required.
• Dust Cover Clearance: LED bulbs have cooling fans or large heat sinks on the back. Ensure the high beam LED you choose has a compact enough footprint to allow the factory dust cover to re-seat properly, keeping moisture out of your expensive OEM headlight housing.

How to replace each bulb

Here are a few technician tips for tackling the most common bulb replacements on the 2017 Explorer:

• High Beam Headlights (9005): Accessible from under the hood. You may need to remove the air cleaner assembly intake tube on the driver side or move the coolant reservoir aside slightly on the passenger side for better access. Twist the dust cap counterclockwise, then twist the bulb counterclockwise to remove.
• Fog Lights (H11): The easiest access is from underneath the vehicle or through the wheel well. Turn the steering wheel all the way inward, remove the front retaining screws of the fender liner, and peel the liner back to access the back of the fog light housing.
• Front Turn Signals (3457NA): These are located in the main headlight housing. They can be accessed similarly to the high beams. Use an amber (NA) bulb to maintain DOT compliance.
• Tail, Brake, and Rear Turn Signals: Open the liftgate and remove the trim covers concealing the tail light mounting bolts. Remove the bolts and carefully pull the tail light assembly straight back to pop it off its retention pins. Twist the bulb sockets to replace the turn signal or reverse light bulbs.
• License Plate and Interior Lights (194/168): Use a plastic trim removal tool to gently pry out the license plate light housings and interior map light lenses to avoid scratching the plastic.

Common lighting issues for this generation

While generally reliable, the 2016-2019 Explorer generation does have a few known lighting quirks. The most prominent issue is condensation or moisture building up inside the primary headlight assembly. Because the low beams are sealed LEDs, excessive moisture can short out the internal LED driver, requiring a full—and expensive—headlight assembly replacement. If you notice heavy condensation, inspect the rear dust caps to ensure they are tightly sealed and check for micro-cracks in the lens.

Additionally, the liftgate wiring harness can chafe over time where it transitions from the body to the hatch. If your reverse lights or license plate lights intermittently fail, check the rubber accordion boot at the top of the liftgate for frayed wires before assuming the bulbs are burnt out.

If you are dealing with a sealed LED assembly failure, complex wiring issues, or simply prefer to leave the knuckle-scraping to the pros, find a trusted shop on Repairius.