With SHR transitioning from Chevrolet to Ford in 2017, Harvick rebounded heavily with wins at Sonoma and Texas, along with 23 top-10s, and a third-place finish in the points standings. Harvick's 2018 run fared much better, with a career-high eight wins, 20 top-fives, and 26 top-10s, despite his Las Vegas win being encumbered for a post-race inspection violation. With a win at the fall Texas race, he secured himself in the Final Four at Homestead. However, three days later, the win was declared encumbered after the car was discovered to have a non-compliant rear spoiler during post-race inspection. The violation resulted in an L1 penalty that docked the team 40 owner and driver points - voiding Harvick's eligibility in the Final Four - and placed Childers and car chief Robert Smith on suspension for the final two races. Tony Gibson became Harvick's crew chief for the remainder of the season. At Phoenix, Harvick overcame a flat tire during the race to finish fifth and secure enough points to make the Championship 4. He finished third at Homestead and in the points standings.