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2016 Ford F-150 Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·10 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

5.2/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • Service brake failures are a critical ownership concern, with a high volume of complaints and recalls related to the master cylinder.
  • Engine and powertrain issues, including power loss and stalling, are frequently reported and warrant close inspection.
  • Door latch malfunctions, especially in cold weather, have been noted in both complaints and recalls.
  • Fuel economy is rated at 16 MPG combined, contributing to potentially high fuel costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Ford F-150

The 2016 Ford F-150, a popular full-size pickup, enters the used market with a notable number of recalls (21) and consumer complaints (2,254). While it offers a robust platform, potential buyers should be aware of recurring issues, particularly concerning the powertrain, service brakes, and engine. With 178 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is strongly advised to mitigate potential repair costs.

Critical Failure Risk

Sudden loss of engine power or complete stalling can occur, often without warning.

Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls21
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

2254
Power Train372
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
16
MPG
City
14
MPG
Highway
20
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

3.6/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers who prioritize capability and are willing to undertake a rigorous pre-purchase inspection.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Risk-averse buyers or those seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Ford F-150 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Ford F-150.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Gasoline or E85
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Pickup
EPA Combined MPG
16

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

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 372 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 292 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $75 - $100

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
21 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

Full FAQ

Is the 2016 Ford F-150 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Ford F-150 is 3.6/10. Reliability score is 3.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 21. Owner complaints: 2,254.

How practical is the 2016 Ford F-150 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 16 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Ford F-150?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Ford F-150 is 5.2/10. Overall score is 5.2/10 (Mixed). Confidence 52%. Maintenance 6.9/10. Tuning 6.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Ford F-150?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Master Cylinder (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $800).

What engine is in the 2016 Ford F-150?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 5.0.

What transmission does the 2016 Ford F-150 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford F-150, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2016 F-150 require Gasoline or E85 gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Ford F-150?▾

EPA combined estimate is 16 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Ford F-150?▾

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

What body style is the 2016 Ford F-150?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford F-150, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Ford F-150 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford F-150, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

Is the 2016 Ford F-150 good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 6/10. The 2016 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 presents a platform with available aftermarket support for performance enhancements. Popular platforms: Ford F-150 5.0L V8.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2016 Ford F-150?▾

Top complaint category: power train (372 reports, 16.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Ford F-150?▾

This model year has 21 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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