What are the most common problems with the 2016 Ford Explorer?

**Steering System Failures**: A leading cause of owner complaints, with reports of sudden loss of power steering assist and complete steering rack failure, often at low mileage. This poses a significant safety risk and can lead to costly repairs.

How many recalls does the 2016 Ford Explorer have?

The 2016 Ford Explorer currently has 25 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2016 Ford Explorer a good buy used?

Verdict: High risk. **Steering System Failures**: A leading cause of owner complaints, with reports of sudden loss of power steering assist and complete steering rack failure, often at low mileage. This poses a significant safety risk and can lead to costly repairs. **Engine Power Loss**: Frequent issues with the **throttle body** can cause sudden loss of acceleration or complete engine stalling, often indicated by a 'wrench' light. This critical failure can occur unexpectedly, even at low mileage. **Numerous Recalls**: With 25 recalls issued, including critical safety campaigns for fuel tank mounting and parking brake functionality, it's essential to verify all recall work has been completed. **Exhaust Fume Intrusion**: Some owners report exhaust fumes entering the cabin, which can be a health hazard and diminish the ownership experience. **Below-Average Reliability**: Both public and LLM assessments indicate below-average reliability, driven by the frequency and severity of the aforementioned issues. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2016 Ford Explorer?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2016 Ford Explorer.

2016 Ford Explorer Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis5 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

High risk

Key Takeaways

Steering System Failures: A leading cause of owner complaints, with reports of sudden loss of power steering assist and complete steering rack failure, often at low mileage. This poses a significant safety risk and can lead to costly repairs.
Engine Power Loss: Frequent issues with the throttle body can cause sudden loss of acceleration or complete engine stalling, often indicated by a 'wrench' light. This critical failure can occur unexpectedly, even at low mileage.
Numerous Recalls: With 25 recalls issued, including critical safety campaigns for fuel tank mounting and parking brake functionality, it's essential to verify all recall work has been completed.
Exhaust Fume Intrusion: Some owners report exhaust fumes entering the cabin, which can be a health hazard and diminish the ownership experience.

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Overview

2016 Ford Explorer

The 2016 Ford Explorer offers a compelling blend of utility and comfort, making it a popular choice for families. However, prospective used car buyers should be aware of its significant reliability concerns. With 25 recalls and nearly 3,000 owner complaints, particularly related to steering and engine performance, this model requires thorough pre-purchase inspection. Despite these issues, its robust safety ratings remain attractive.

Critical Failure Risk

The electronic throttle body (ETB) can develop contamination or internal electronic faults, leading to a loss of engine power. This is a critical safety issue, often reported at low mileage. Ford issued Customer Satisfaction Program 16B32 for this issue.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,400 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls25

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

2896

Steering498

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower: 290–365HP
Torque: 255–350 lb–ftLB-FT

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and a comfortable ride.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Ford Explorer Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 7
Horsepower: 290-365 hp
Torque: 255-350 lb-ft
Transmission: Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
MSRP Range: $31,050 - $52,970
EPA Combined MPG: 18

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Steering

Most reported

Usage: 498 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 374 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (SAE 5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Belt and Hose Inspection - Fluid Level Check - Steering Linkage Inspection - Suspension Component Inspection - Tie-Rod End Inspection - Driveshaft and U-Joint Inspection - Tire Wear and Depth Measurement - Wheel Component Inspection - Cooling System Inspection - Exhaust System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

25 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Full FAQ

Is the 2016 Ford Explorer reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Ford Explorer is 3.1/10. Reliability score is 3.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 25. Owner complaints: 2,896.

How practical is the 2016 Ford Explorer for daily use?

Practicality score is 6.0/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 595 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Ford Explorer?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Ford Explorer is 5.4/10. Overall score is 5.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 6.9/10. Tuning 6.0/10. Practicality 6.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Ford Explorer?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (SAE 5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Belt and Hose Inspection - Fluid Level Check - Steering Linkage Inspection - Suspension Component Inspection - Tie-Rod End Inspection - Driveshaft and U-Joint Inspection - Tire Wear and Depth Measurement - Wheel Component Inspection - Cooling System Inspection - Exhaust System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $2,000. Repair prediction highlight: Throttle Body (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2400).

What is the MSRP range for the 2016 Ford Explorer?

MSRP range is $31,050 - $52,970.

What engine is in the 2016 Ford Explorer?

Engine specs list V6 • 6 • 3.5. Output is 290-365 hp • 255-350 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2016 Ford Explorer use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Explorer, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Ford Explorer?

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Ford Explorer?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2016 Ford Explorer?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Explorer, fuel economy range is 16-26 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2016 Ford Explorer?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Explorer, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2016 Ford Explorer?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Explorer, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Ford Explorer use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Explorer, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Ford Explorer?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2016 Ford Explorer good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 6/10. The 2016 Ford Explorer, equipped with its available EcoBoost engines, presents a platform with moderate tuning potential. Popular platforms: Explorer Sport (3.5L EcoBoost).

Should I tune the 2016 Ford Explorer?

The 2016 Ford Explorer, particularly with its turbocharged engines (2.3L EcoBoost and 3.5L EcoBoost in the Sport trim), has aftermarket support for tuning devices like JB4 and Livernois Motorsports tuners. These devices offer significant horsepower and torque gains by remapping boost, timing, and fueling. There's also a market for suspension and wheel modifications, indicating active aftermarket support. While not a traditional 'sleeper,' the Explorer Sport's performance capabilities and the availability of tuning options give it some tuning potential.

What are the most common steering problems on the 2016 Ford Explorer?

Top complaint category: steering (498 reports, 17.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Ford Explorer?

This model year has 25 official safety campaigns listed.