If you're searching for a 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum for sale in Hammond, Indiana, your search ends here. NWI Auto Credit, located in Hammond in Lake County, has this eye-catching Red AWD Explorer Platinum in stock and ready for a test drive. With a 3.5L engine, automatic transmission, and a premium trim level that rivals luxury SUVs, this is a rare find in Northwest Indiana's used car market.
About This 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum
This 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum comes in at 94,286 miles — a very reasonable number for a three-row SUV of this caliber. At this mileage, you're getting the best of both worlds: a vehicle that's been broken in and depreciated, yet still has plenty of life ahead of it. The striking Red exterior makes it stand out on the road, and the Platinum trim ensures that what's inside is just as impressive. Whether you're hauling the family across the Chicago metro area or tackling a weekend road trip up to the Dunes, this Explorer is built to do it in comfort and confidence.
Stock #10041 is sitting on our lot now, and vehicles like this don't last long. The Explorer Platinum is the highest trim in the Explorer lineup, meaning it was loaded from the factory with features most buyers have to pay extra for elsewhere.
2017 Ford Explorer Performance and Engine
Under the hood of this Explorer Platinum sits a 3.5L V6 engine paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission and full-time All-Wheel Drive. This powertrain delivers a confident driving experience in all conditions — whether you're navigating the stop-and-go traffic on US-41 through Hammond or heading north toward the Lake Michigan shoreline in winter weather.
The 3.5L engine in this configuration produces robust power for a three-row SUV, offering strong highway merging capability and the kind of towing capacity that lets you bring a trailer or boat along for the ride. AWD adds genuine peace of mind during Indiana's snowy winters and wet spring conditions, distributing power intelligently across all four wheels to keep you stable and in control.
Ford Explorer Platinum Features and Interior
The Platinum trim is Ford's top-of-the-line Explorer package, and it shows. Buyers stepping into this trim level can expect a richly appointed interior designed to compete with near-luxury brands.
Comfort and Seating
The Explorer Platinum typically features premium leather seating with second-row captain's chairs, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row seats — a serious perk during Indiana winters. The interior materials are noticeably upscale, with soft-touch surfaces and unique Platinum badging throughout.
Technology and Convenience
Expect Ford's SYNC infotainment system with a large touchscreen, navigation, premium audio, and integrated Bluetooth connectivity. The Platinum trim also typically includes a power panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, hands-free power liftgate, and Ford's BLIS blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert — technology that makes every drive safer and more enjoyable.
Ford Explorer Reliability and Ownership
The Ford Explorer has been one of America's best-selling three-row SUVs for decades, and the 2017 model year is widely regarded as a solid choice in the used market. By 2017, Ford had refined the sixth-generation Explorer significantly, addressing many of the concerns owners raised in earlier years. The 3.5L V6 is a proven, durable engine that Ford uses across multiple vehicle lines, and with proper maintenance it's known to go well beyond 150,000 miles.
Owners consistently praise the Explorer for its spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, and confident AWD performance in poor weather. The Platinum trim adds a layer of luxury that holds up well over time. As with any used SUV at this mileage, having a trusted mechanic inspect the cooling system, transmission fluid, and suspension components is always a smart step — but the Explorer's track record gives buyers strong confidence going in.
Why Buy From NWI Auto Credit in Hammond, Indiana
NWI Auto Credit is a trusted name in Hammond, Indiana, serving buyers throughout Lake County and the greater Northwest Indiana region. We specialize in getting real people into quality used vehicles, with a straightforward, pressure-free buying experience that puts you in the driver's seat — literally and figuratively.
We understand that buying a used vehicle is a big decision, and our team is here to answer every question honestly. Whether you're a first-time buyer or you've purchased dozens of vehicles, you'll find that our staff treats you like a neighbor — because in Northwest Indiana, you probably are one. This Red Explorer Platinum is priced to move, and we're ready to work with you to make it yours.
Financing a Used Ford Explorer Near Hammond
Worried about credit? Don't be. NWI Auto Credit lives up to its name — we work with a wide range of credit situations to help buyers throughout Hammond and Lake County get approved and get on the road. Whether your credit is excellent, rebuilding, or somewhere in between, we have lending relationships that can help make this 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum a realistic option for your budget.
Give us a call at 219-554-3044 to get pre-qualified, or stop in to discuss your financing options in person. We'll walk you through monthly payment estimates, down payment options, and everything else you need to make a confident decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum a good buy?
Yes — the 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum is widely considered an excellent value in the used SUV market. It offers near-luxury features, a proven AWD system, and three-row seating at a significantly lower price than when it was new. The Platinum trim is the top of the Explorer lineup, making it one of the most well-equipped used SUVs available in this price range.
How many miles is too many for a used Ford Explorer?
A well-maintained Ford Explorer with a 3.5L V6 can comfortably reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles. At 94,286 miles, this Explorer is solidly in the middle of its life — past the early depreciation curve but with substantial reliable miles still ahead. Service records and a pre-purchase inspection are always recommended.
What does the Ford Explorer Platinum trim include?
The Explorer Platinum is Ford's highest trim level for the Explorer. It typically includes premium leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, SYNC navigation, a 360-degree camera, BLIS blind-spot monitoring, a hands-free liftgate, and distinctive Platinum interior and exterior styling cues.
Is AWD worth it on a used Ford Explorer?
Absolutely — especially in Northwest Indiana, where winters can bring snow, ice, and slush. AWD on the Explorer provides improved traction and stability in poor conditions and adds resale value. For buyers who drive year-round in the region, AWD is a meaningful advantage over front-wheel-drive alternatives.
Can I get financing with bad credit at NWI Auto Credit in Hammond?
Yes. NWI Auto Credit specializes in helping buyers with all types of credit histories, including those who are rebuilding credit or have been turned down elsewhere. Call 219-554-3044 to discuss your situation, and our team will work to find a financing solution that fits your budget.
Serving Hammond and Surrounding Areas
NWI Auto Credit is proudly located in Hammond, in Lake County, Indiana — right in the heart of Northwest Indiana. We regularly serve buyers from across the region, including Merrillville, Munster, Highland, Lansing, Calumet City, Portage, Valparaiso, and Schererville. If you're anywhere in Lake County or the surrounding communities, we're an easy drive away and well worth the trip for a vehicle of this caliber.
The Chicago Southland and the entire Northwest Indiana corridor are our home, and we're committed to serving our neighbors with honest pricing and quality inventory. This 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum in Red is exactly the kind of vehicle that buyers travel across the region to find.
Contact NWI Auto Credit Today
Ready to get behind the wheel of this 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum? Don't wait — inventory like this moves fast. Contact NWI Auto Credit in Hammond, Indiana today to schedule your test drive or ask any questions about Stock #10041.
Call us at 219-554-3044 and let one of our friendly team members walk you through everything. We're here to make your next vehicle purchase simple, stress-free, and something you feel great about. Come see us in Hammond — we'd love to earn your business.
