2016 Ford Explorer: common problems and reliability

The 2016 Ford Explorer has 2444 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 14 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are structure and steering. Owners most often flag transmission reliability problems — includes rough shifting, laggy response, complete failure, and concerns about longevity. noted as a weak point across the model line, with failures occurring at both low and high mileage. frequency: very frequent.

Safety record for the 2016 model year

2,444
Owner complaints
14
Recalls
38
Crash reports
14
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

structure
575
steering
529
engine
383
power train
214
electrical system
126

Recalls affecting the 2016 Explorer

suspension:rear

Campaign 19V435000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.

wheels:hub

Campaign 17E048000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain Wheel Hub Bearing assemblies, part number HB5Z-1104-C, incorrectly listed as being for installation on the rear axles of 2011-2017 Ford Explorer 4X2 vehicles. These bearings…

seats:front assembly:recliner

Campaign 16V475000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Explorer and F-150 vehicles equipped with a manual recline driver's seat. The seat back frame may have insufficient welds which may not meet the require…

seats

Campaign 17V767000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 F-150 and Explorer vehicles. Loose power seat adjuster pivot bolts may cause the front seat cushions to detach and not properly restrain the seat occupant in the event …

What owners say across generations

Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The current-generation Explorer (2020+) is frequently praised for its spacious interior, particularly the generous cargo and third-row space, comfortable ride, and strong performance in ST and Platinum trims. T

  • Transmission reliability problems — Includes rough shifting, laggy response, complete failure, and concerns about longevity. Noted as a weak point across the model line, with failures occurring at both low and high mileage. Frequency: very frequent.
  • Engine and cooling system problems — Reports of engines overheating, internal flooding, and repeated catalytic converter failures requiring multiple replacements. Frequency: recurrent.
  • General reliability concerns — Broad statements about Ford reliability being "average to below average," with specific mentions of expensive repairs and the need for significant maintenance budgets. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Electrical issues — Isolated reports of intermittent electrical problems, particularly in older models (e.g., 1994, 2013). Frequency: isolated.
  • Exhaust/Power Transfer Unit (PTU) odor — Mention of a technical service bulletin for exhaust smell entering the cabin during hard driving, and potential PTU vent odor in all-wheel-drive models. Frequency: isolated.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Explorer.

Typical used price

Used Explorer listings typically run $29,360–$51,264 across 2015 to 2026 model years.

Other Explorer model years

2024 Explorer2019 Explorer2018 Explorer2011 Explorer2006 Explorer2003 Explorer2002 Explorer1999 Explorer1996 Explorer
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