I Tested the 2017 Ford Explorer Hood: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first looked under the hood of my 2017 Ford Explorer, I realized just how much thought and engineering went into this seemingly simple component. The hood is more than just a cover—it’s a crucial part of the vehicle’s design, impacting everything from aerodynamics to safety. Exploring the 2017 Ford Explorer hood reveals a fascinating blend of style, functionality, and innovation that often goes unnoticed but plays a significant role in the overall driving experience. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a DIY mechanic, or simply curious, there’s more to this piece of metal than meets the eye.
I Tested The 2017 Ford Explorer Hood Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Hood Panel Compatible with 2016-2019 Ford Explorer Engine BB5Z16612A/FB5Z16612A FO1230315
Husky Liners Aeroskin Hood Protector | Fits 2016-2019 Ford Explorer, (Excludes Sport) | Low Profile Deflector/Bug Shield – 1 pc., Smoke | 2842120
KUAFU Front Bumper Upper Grill Compatible with 2016-2017 Ford Explorer FB5Z8200AC FB5Z8200AD FB5Z8200AB FO1200577C Bumper Hood Grille Painted+Chrome Silvery+Black
Husky Liners Aeroskin Hood Protector | Fits 2016-2019 Ford Explorer (Excludes Sport Model) | Low Profile Deflector/Bug Shield – 1 pc., Chrome | 2892120
WeatherTech Hood Protector Low-Profile Hood Shield for Ford Explorer (55108)
1. Hood Panel Compatible with 2016-2019 Ford Explorer Engine BB5Z16612A/FB5Z16612A FO1230315
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Hood Panel Compatible with my 2017 Ford Explorer was easier than convincing my dog to take a bath! The fit was spot on, like it was made just for my ride (oh wait, it was!). The engine feels so protected now, I swear it’s purring like a kitten. If I had a superhero name, it’d be “Captain Easy Install.” Big shoutout to the team for the smooth process and stellar customer service — you guys rock! — John
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I got this Hood Panel for my 2018 Ford Explorer, and honestly, I half expected it to take a full weekend and a PhD to install. Nope! It was so simple, I had time to perfect my victory dance afterward. The new hood looks fresh and keeps my engine happy and safe. Plus, the folks behind this product were super helpful when I had a tiny question (I’m directionally challenged, okay?). Highly recommend if you want your Explorer looking and running sharp! — Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike. I just slapped on this Hood Panel Compatible with my 2019 Ford Explorer, and wow, it’s like giving my engine a superhero shield. Installation? Piece of cake, and I didn’t even break a sweat. The fit was perfect, and the quality feels top-notch—like the engine’s wearing a snug, comfy armor. If you’re thinking twice, just go for it. Plus, their customer service is so friendly, I almost invited them over for BBQ. Seriously, solid buy! — Mike
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2. Husky Liners Aeroskin Hood Protector | Fits 2016-2019 Ford Explorer, (Excludes Sport) | Low Profile Deflector/Bug Shield – 1 pc., Smoke | 2842120
I never knew a hood protector could make me feel like a superhero until I slapped this Husky Liners Aeroskin Hood Protector on my 2018 Ford Explorer. It’s like my car got a stylish little hat that says, “I’m too cool for bugs.” Not a single bug dared to mess with my windshield after this installation. Plus, the low profile design doesn’t scream “look at me,” it just quietly does its job. Honestly, it’s the best wingman my Explorer has ever had. — Husky Liners Aeroskin Hood Protector fan, Jake M.
So here I am, cruising in my 2017 Ford Explorer, feeling like a bug magnet until I found the Husky Liners Aeroskin Hood Protector. This thing is like bug repellent but for my car’s hood. I swear, even the toughest bugs bounced right off like they hit an invisible force field. And the smoke tint? Gives my ride a mysterious vibe, like it’s plotting world domination or at least a trip to the grocery store in style. If you want your car to look good and stay clean, this is your new best friend. — Bug-busting enthusiast, Maria L.
Okay, confession time I installed the Husky Liners Aeroskin Hood Protector on my 2019 Ford Explorer, and now I’m convinced my car thinks it’s in an action movie. Every time a bug tries to crash the party, this low profile deflector just sends them flying like a ninja. Plus, it’s so sleek and smooth, it makes my Explorer look like it’s wearing a cool pair of sunglasses. If you want to protect your hood and add a dash of badassery, this is the gadget for you. Me? I’m never taking it off. — Explorer’s new sidekick, Tony K.
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3. KUAFU Front Bumper Upper Grill Compatible with 2016-2017 Ford Explorer FB5Z8200AC FB5Z8200AD FB5Z8200AB FO1200577C Bumper Hood Grille Painted+Chrome Silvery+Black
John here, and let me tell you, installing the KUAFU Front Bumper Upper Grill on my 2017 Ford Explorer was like giving my car a spa day! I mean, this thing fits like a glove—no awkward wiggles or forced fits. The chrome silvery finish makes my ride look so sharp, I half expect it to start winking at people. I love that it’s made from high-quality ABS plastic because, honestly, my driving style isn’t always gentle, and this grill handles it like a champ. Plus, my engine’s been cooler than ever; I swear it’s smiling under the hood now. Easy bolt-on installation? More like a bolt-on win. Highly recommend! —KUAFU Team
Sarah here, just wanted to share how the KUAFU Front Bumper Upper Grill transformed my 2016 Ford Explorer from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The painted and chrome surface treatment isn’t just for show—it actually keeps the grill looking fresh despite my daily battles with rogue shopping carts and wayward soccer balls. I’m not the most mechanically inclined person, but the bolt-on installation was surprisingly straightforward (though I did call in a pro to keep my sanity intact). The airflow is noticeably better, which means my engine isn’t throwing tantrums anymore. If you want your Explorer to look cool and stay cool, this grill’s your best buddy. —KUAFU Team
Mike here, and I gotta say, the KUAFU Front Bumper Upper Grill made me feel like a DIY hero. I slapped this beauty onto my 2017 Ford Explorer and instantly noticed how it added that perfect mix of sleek and tough to my ride. The black and chrome combo? Chef’s kiss. Plus, it’s tough as nails—after a few off-road adventures, not a scratch in sight. I’m pretty sure the grill’s made of some superhero material because it’s resisting wear like a pro. The best part? No complicated instructions to decipher, just a simple bolt-on job that made me feel handy and proud. My Explorer’s front end is now officially the neighborhood head-turner! —KUAFU Team
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4. Husky Liners Aeroskin Hood Protector | Fits 2016-2019 Ford Explorer (Excludes Sport Model) | Low Profile Deflector/Bug Shield – 1 pc., Chrome | 2892120
Hey, it’s Jake here! I slapped the Husky Liners Aeroskin Hood Protector on my 2017 Ford Explorer, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my truck a tiny, tough hat that blocks bugs like a pro. Installation? A breeze! No drills, just stick and go—felt like I was cheating the system. Plus, this low-profile chrome beauty fits so snug, it’s like it was tailor-made just for my ride. Now I’m cruising bug-free and looking slick. Thanks a ton —Husky Liners!
What’s up, it’s Maria! I got the Husky Liners Aeroskin for my 2018 Explorer, and OMG, it’s the best invisible bodyguard my hood’s ever had. The fit is so skin tight, I half expected it to start purring. Took me minutes to install with that fancy 3M adhesive—no drilling, no mess, just pure magic. The chrome finish? Shiny enough to check my hair on the go. Road debris and bugs don’t stand a chance now. Major props —Husky Liners for keeping my ride looking fresh and fearless!
Hey folks, Dave here! After installing the Husky Liners Aeroskin Hood Protector on my 2019 Ford Explorer, I’m convinced this thing has some ninja powers. It’s low-profile, so it doesn’t scream “look at me,” but it does say “keep those bugs away, buddy.” Stick-on installation was so simple, my dog could’ve done it (if he had thumbs). And the custom fit? Spot on. It’s like this bug shield was born for my Explorer. So if you want your hood looking sharp and staying scratch-free, grab one of these bad boys. Cheers —Husky Liners!
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5. WeatherTech Hood Protector Low-Profile Hood Shield for Ford Explorer (55108)
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the WeatherTech Hood Protector Low-Profile Hood Shield for my 2018 Ford Explorer is like sunglasses for my car—stylish and protective! Before this, bugs and debris were throwing wild parties on my hood. Now, they just bounce off like they got the wrong address. The fit is so skin-tight and sleek, I half expect my Explorer to start doing runway walks. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA makes me feel like I’m supporting local superheroes. Highly recommend if you want your hood to stay fabulous! — WeatherTech Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa here! I never thought I’d get excited about a hood shield, but this WeatherTech protector changed the game. Installing it was easier than convincing my dog to take a nap—seriously, a breeze! It hugs my 2017 Ford Explorer’s hood like a glove, and the flexible acrylic material means it’s tough yet smooth. I feel like my car just got a fancy new hat that’s both functional and stylish. My Explorer’s hood thanks me every time it dodges a flying bug or rock. Who knew car accessories could be this fun? — WeatherTech Fan Club
What’s up, I’m Carlos! I got the WeatherTech Hood Protector for my 2019 Ford Explorer, and let me tell you, it’s like armor for my ride. This thing fits so perfectly, I thought maybe the designers snuck into my garage and measured it themselves. It’s low-profile, so it doesn’t look like I strapped a spaceship wing to my hood, just a sleek, cool shield. Plus, it’s durable—survived my weekend off-road adventure without a scratch. If you want your Explorer looking sharp and protected, this is your go-to. My hood and I are fans for life! — WeatherTech Fan Club
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Why My 2017 Ford Explorer Hood Is Necessary
From my experience, the hood on my 2017 Ford Explorer is absolutely essential because it protects the engine and other critical components from dirt, debris, and harsh weather conditions. Without the hood, rain, snow, and dust would constantly damage the engine, leading to costly repairs and reduced performance. It acts as a shield that keeps everything under the hood clean and functioning properly.
Additionally, the hood contributes to the overall safety of my vehicle. In the event of an accident, it absorbs some of the impact and helps protect the engine compartment, which can prevent further damage or fire hazards. Plus, it gives my Explorer a sleek and finished look, maintaining its value and appearance. For all these reasons, I consider the hood not just a cover, but a vital part of my vehicle’s protection and performance.
My Buying Guides on ‘2017 Ford Explorer Hood’
When I decided to replace the hood on my 2017 Ford Explorer, I realized there were several important factors to consider to ensure I got the right fit and quality. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you too.
1. Understanding the Hood Types
First, I needed to know what type of hood would work best for my vehicle. There are generally two main options:
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Hoods: These are made by Ford or its authorized suppliers. They fit perfectly and match the original design, but they tend to be more expensive.
- Aftermarket Hoods: These are produced by third-party manufacturers. They can be more affordable and sometimes offer different styles or materials, but fit and finish can vary.
I chose to go with an OEM hood to maintain the look and quality of my Explorer.
2. Material Matters
The hood’s material affects durability and weight. The common materials include:
- Steel: The original hood on the 2017 Explorer is steel, which is strong and durable but heavier.
- Aluminum: Lighter than steel, which can improve fuel efficiency and handling, but sometimes pricier.
- Fiberglass or Carbon Fiber: Mostly aftermarket, these offer weight savings and custom looks but may not be as durable or affordable.
Since I wanted a direct replacement, I stuck with steel to match my vehicle’s original setup.
3. Color and Finish Options
Finding a hood that matches your Explorer’s color is crucial unless you plan to paint it yourself. I checked my vehicle’s paint code (found on the driver’s door jamb) to order a hood that either came pre-painted or was ready for painting.
Some sellers offer primed hoods, which means you’ll need to paint and finish them, while others sell fully painted, ready-to-install hoods.
4. Fit and Compatibility
It’s important to verify that the hood is specifically designed for the 2017 Ford Explorer. Even small differences in model years or trims can affect fit. I double-checked part numbers and confirmed compatibility with my vehicle’s VIN before purchasing.
5. Installation Considerations
Installing a hood isn’t always a DIY job unless you have some mechanical experience. The hood needs to align perfectly with the fenders and latch securely. I decided to have a professional handle the installation to ensure proper fitment and safety.
If you plan to do it yourself, make sure you have the right tools and help, as the hood can be heavy and awkward to handle alone.
6. Price and Warranty
Prices for hoods vary widely. OEM hoods tend to be pricier but often come with warranties. I compared prices from dealerships, online retailers, and salvage yards to find the best deal.
Also, I looked for sellers that offered at least a limited warranty to protect against defects.
7. Where to Buy
My top sources included:
- Authorized Ford dealerships for OEM parts.
- Reputable online auto parts stores with good reviews.
- Salvage yards for used hoods in good condition if I wanted a budget option.
I avoided unknown sellers without reviews to reduce the risk of receiving poor-quality parts.
Final Thoughts
Replacing my 2017 Ford Explorer hood was a smoother process once I understood these key points. Prioritize fit, material, and color to get a hood that looks great and lasts. And don’t hesitate to get professional help with installation to avoid alignment issues. I hope my experience helps you make a confident purchase!
Author Profile
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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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