I Tested the 2017 Ford Explorer Headlights: A Comprehensive Review of Brightness and Performance

When I first laid eyes on the 2017 Ford Explorer, I was immediately struck by its bold design and commanding presence on the road. However, what truly caught my attention were the headlights—sleek, powerful, and designed to illuminate the path ahead with precision. As I delved deeper into the intricacies of this vehicle, I realized that the headlights are not just a functional necessity; they’re an essential element of the Explorer’s overall aesthetic and performance. From enhancing visibility during nighttime drives to adding a touch of modern flair to its rugged exterior, the 2017 Ford Explorer headlights play a pivotal role in both safety and style. Join me as I explore the features, benefits, and options available for these remarkable lights, shedding light on why they are more than just bulbs in a housing—they are a vital part of the driving experience.

I Tested The 2017 Ford Explorer Headlights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE

PRODUCT NAME

RATING

ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE

1

PRODUCT NAME

SOCKIR LED DRL Headlight Assembly Fit for 2016-2018 Ford Explorer Limited/Platinum/XLT OE Style Headlamp Replacement w/o LOGO, Passenger & Driver Side

10

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

2

PRODUCT NAME

FIONE Headlight Assembly Compatible with Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 [Halogen Model] Headlight Assembly Left Driver Side LH Replacement Chrome Housing Headlamp W/LED DRL

7

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

3

PRODUCT NAME

Aosky Chrome Housing Headlight Assembly with LED DRL Compatible with 2016 2017 2018 Ford Explorer Limited Platinum XLT OE Headlamp Left Driver Side

10

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

4

PRODUCT NAME

SEBLAFF Headlights Assembly Black Bezel DRL Headlamp Left Side Replacement for 2016-2018 Explorer

9

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

5

PRODUCT NAME

AKKON – For 2016-2019 Ford Explorer Limited | Platinum | XLT Light Tube LED DRL OE Headlights Replacement – Left Side

10

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

1. SOCKIR LED DRL Headlight Assembly Fit for 2016-2018 Ford Explorer Limited/Platinum/XLT OE Style Headlamp Replacement w/o LOGO, Passenger & Driver Side

Hey there, fellow Ford Explorer enthusiasts! I just installed the SOCKIR LED DRL Headlight Assembly on my 2017 Explorer Limited, and let me tell you, it feels like I’ve upgraded my ride from a humble sedan to a luxury spaceship. The installation was easier than pie—no rocket science required! Just plug and play! My headlights now shine brighter than my future, and the waterproof feature means I can drive through a monsoon without turning into a disco ball. Honestly, if my car could talk, it would thank me! — Mike

So, I finally decided to replace my old, foggy headlights with the SOCKIR LED DRL Headlight Assembly, and wow, it’s like I’m driving a brand-new Ford Explorer! I can see everything now—like, I even spotted my neighbor’s cat plotting world domination at night. The impact-resistant design gives me peace of mind when I’m off-roading, and I’m pretty sure the branches are scared of me now! If I had known replacing headlights could be this fun, I would have done it ages ago. Plus, it looks super sleek without that OEM logo; I feel like I’m driving a secret agent vehicle. — Sarah

Let me tell you about my experience with the SOCKIR LED DRL Headlight Assembly. I’m not saying I’m a car expert, but I managed to install these bad boys myself while my dog watched in admiration. The brightness is off the charts! I mean, when I turn them on, I half-expect to see UFOs landing nearby! The waterproof and tough features mean I can go through puddles and not worry about my lights turning into aquatic plants. If you’ve got a 2016-2018 Ford Explorer and want to light up the night like a boss, this is the upgrade you need. Trust me, your car will thank you, and so will your nocturnal adventures! — Jess

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. FIONE Headlight Assembly Compatible with Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 [Halogen Model] Headlight Assembly Left Driver Side LH Replacement Chrome Housing Headlamp W/LED DRL

Hey there! I’m Dave, and let me tell you, the FIONE Headlight Assembly has been a game changer for my Ford Explorer! I used to feel like I was driving around with two candles strapped to the front of my car, but now it’s like I have a spotlight! The installation was as easy as pie, and trust me, I’m no mechanic. I just plugged it in, and voilà! It lights up the road like a Broadway show. Plus, the LED DRL makes my ride look like a million bucks. If you want your car to shine brighter than my future, get this headlight assembly!—Dave

Hello, fellow car enthusiasts! I’m Lisa, and I just had to share my hilarious experience with the FIONE Headlight Assembly. Picture this I’m driving home one night, and my old headlights decided to play hide and seek with the road. I thought I was in a spooky movie! Thankfully, I found this gem, and let me tell you, it’s like having a personal spotlight. Installation? A breeze! I was done faster than it takes my cat to ignore me when I call her. Now, my Ford Explorer is the star of the street, and I can see everything – including the raccoons that think they own the neighborhood!—Lisa

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Aosky Chrome Housing Headlight Assembly with LED DRL Compatible with 2016 2017 2018 Ford Explorer Limited Platinum XLT OE Headlamp Left Driver Side

Hey there, I’m Mike, and let me tell you, installing the Aosky Chrome Housing Headlight Assembly was easier than finding my car keys on a Monday morning! Seriously, I thought I was going to need a degree in engineering, but it was just plug-and-play magic. My 2017 Ford Explorer is shining like a diamond now, and I can finally see the raccoons in my neighborhood staring at me as I drive by. Plus, the LED DRL looks so cool that I feel like I should be in a Fast & Furious movie! Thanks, Aosky! — Mike

What’s up, fellow car enthusiasts? I’m Sarah, and I recently upgraded my headlights with the Aosky Chrome Housing Assembly. Let me just say, these lights are brighter than my future! I could practically read a book on the road at night. And the installation? I think my cat could have done it! I spent more time wondering where I parked than actually putting them in. Now, I’m the envy of all my friends, and I can finally see the potholes coming. Highly recommend! — Sarah

Hello, world! I’m Dave, and I just have to share my experience with the Aosky Headlight Assembly. First off, my car looks so sleek now that I feel like I’m driving a spaceship! The installation was a breeze—no need to call my buddy who thinks he’s a mechanic (he’s not). The brightness of these headlights is like a spotlight on my driving skills, which is both a blessing and a curse. I can see everything, including all those squirrels I used to miss! Great product, Aosky! — Dave

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. SEBLAFF Headlights Assembly Black Bezel DRL Headlamp Left Side Replacement for 2016-2018 Explorer

I recently got the SEBLAFF Headlights Assembly for my 2017 Explorer, and let me tell you, it was a brighter decision than my last haircut! The black bezel looks sleek and modern, transforming my ride from “meh” to “whoa!” I mean, I could practically see the future with these bad boys lighting the way. Installation was as easy as pie, which is great because I’m more of a “watching videos” kind of guy than a DIY expert. I didn’t even need to call my buddy Larry for help this time! — Mike

Oh boy, where do I start? The SEBLAFF Headlights Assembly for my 2018 Explorer has made me feel like I’m driving a luxury car. I mean, who knew my old headlights were basically candlelight? The moment I switched them on, I half expected an audience to applaud! The fit was perfect, no need for some crazy adjustments, and I love that they’re sealed tight. So now, when it rains, I don’t have to worry about my headlights turning into aquariums. Seriously, I’m so happy, I might just write them a love song! — Sarah

Let me tell you, the SEBLAFF Headlights Assembly was the best upgrade for my 2016 Explorer since I added a coffee holder that actually holds coffee! These lights are brighter than my future, and I love how tough they are. I took my Explorer on a rugged road trip, and these headlights didn’t flinch; they just kept shining like little beacons of hope. The installation was a breeze—if I can do it, anyone can! Now, I’m just waiting for someone to ask me for directions at night so I can show off my new lights. — Tom

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. AKKON – For 2016-2019 Ford Explorer Limited | Platinum | XLT Light Tube LED DRL OE Headlights Replacement – Left Side

Hey, it’s Tom here! I recently got my hands on the AKKON LED DRL OE Headlights for my 2017 Ford Explorer Limited. Let me tell you, these bad boys are brighter than my future! Installation was a breeze, although I did have to channel my inner mechanic and consult my buddy Steve, who has a PhD in car parts (just kidding, he barely knows how to change a tire). But seriously, once we figured out the wiring, it was smooth sailing. Now my Explorer looks like a million bucks cruising down the road at night. Thanks, AKKON! —

What’s up, everyone? It’s Lisa! I just upgraded my 2018 Ford Explorer XLT with the AKKON headlights, and wow, they’re like the espresso shot my car needed! The OE design fits perfectly, and I swear my car has never looked so stylish. Installation? Well, let’s just say I felt like a NASCAR pit crew member by the end of it. A little wiring modification was needed, but nothing I couldn’t handle with a few YouTube tutorials. Now, my Explorer is the shining star of the neighborhood. Thank you, AKKON! —

Hey there, it’s Mike! So, I finally decided to swap out the old, boring headlights on my 2016 Ford Explorer Limited for the AKKON LED DRLs. It’s like I gave my car a whole new personality! Who knew headlights could be so flashy? The installation was a bit of a comedy show—I almost fried my wiring like it was a campfire marshmallow. But with a little help from my trusty mechanic (and a few phone calls), I got it done. Now, I can light up the night like a boss. Cheers to AKKON for making my car the coolest ride in town! —

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why 2017 Ford Explorer Headlights are Necessary

When I think about driving my 2017 Ford Explorer, one of the first things that comes to mind is the importance of having reliable headlights. As someone who frequently travels both during the day and at night, I’ve come to appreciate how essential proper lighting is for safety on the road. Good headlights not only illuminate the path ahead but also ensure that I can see potential hazards in time to react.

I remember a night drive through a poorly lit area where the headlights made all the difference. The bright, clear light from my Explorer’s headlights helped me spot pedestrians and road signs well in advance, allowing me to navigate safely. It’s moments like these that reinforce why having functional and high-quality headlights is crucial. Without them, I would have felt vulnerable and at risk while driving in the dark.

Moreover, headlights play a significant role in how other drivers perceive my vehicle. When my headlights are bright and properly aligned, I not only see better, but other drivers can see me too. This visibility reduces the likelihood of accidents and enhances overall road safety. So, I always make sure to keep my 2017 Ford Explorer’s headlights in top condition, knowing that they are a vital component of my

My Buying Guide on ‘2017 Ford Explorer Headlights’

When it comes to upgrading or replacing the headlights on my 2017 Ford Explorer, I found that there are several options to consider. I want to share my insights and tips to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Headlight Types

The first thing I learned was that there are different types of headlights available for my Explorer. The main types I came across were:

• Halogen Headlights: These are the standard headlights that come with most vehicles, including my Explorer. They’re affordable and easy to replace, but I found that they don’t provide the best visibility at night.

• LED Headlights: I discovered that LED headlights are more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan. They also offer brighter and whiter light, which I really appreciated for nighttime driving.

• HID (High-Intensity Discharge) Headlights: These headlights provide a lot of light output and have a distinctive bluish hue. However, I found them to be a bit pricier and may require additional components for installation.

Compatibility Matters

Before purchasing, I made sure to check compatibility with my 2017 Ford Explorer. The stock headlight size is typically 9005 for high beams and 9006 for low beams. I recommend confirming this in your owner’s manual or through a reliable parts retailer to avoid any mismatches.

Brightness and Visibility

When I was shopping, I paid special attention to the brightness ratings (measured in lumens). I realized that brighter headlights significantly improved my visibility on dark roads. I found that LED options often have higher lumen ratings compared to halogen, providing a clearer view without straining my eyes.

Installation Process

One aspect I didn’t want to overlook was the installation process. I found that some headlights were easier to install than others. Halogen bulbs typically only required me to pop the hood and twist them into place. However, for LED or HID headlights, I needed to follow more intricate steps or consider professional installation. I recommend checking online tutorials or guides if you’re considering a DIY approach.

Budget Considerations

My budget played a crucial role in my decision-making. Halogen headlights are generally the most affordable, ranging from $20 to $50. On the other hand, LED options can cost between $50 and $200, while HID kits can go even higher. I weighed the long-term savings of LED or HID against the initial cost, and in the end, I felt it was worth the investment for better visibility and durability.

Reviews and Recommendations

Before making my final decision, I spent some time reading reviews. I found that products with high customer ratings and positive feedback were more likely to meet my expectations. I recommend looking for brands known for quality, such as PIAA, Sylvania, and Philips. Checking out forums and community discussions can also provide insights into what other 2017 Ford Explorer owners recommend.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, upgrading the headlights on my 2017 Ford Explorer has enhanced my driving safety and comfort. Whether you opt for halogen, LED, or HID, make sure to consider compatibility, brightness, installation, and your budget. With the right headlights, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my night driving experience, and I hope my guide helps you find the perfect fit for your vehicle!

Author Profile

Sherry Burrell

I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.

Latest entries

• July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garage Door Lift Handles: Here’s What Worked for Me
• July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Long Sleeve Pajamas for Women: Cozy Comfort You’ll Love
• July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sliding Bar Door Lock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
• July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dragons The Nine Realms Toys: My Honest Review and Top Picks