2016 Ford Explorer Problems
Shopping for a used 2016 Ford Explorer? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Based on 2,394 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Structural Problems the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2016 Ford Explorer has 2,394 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Structural Problems.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2016 Ford Explorer Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 7 2016 Ford Explorer trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 7 trims analysed.
2016 Ford Explorer Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program2 variants tested — showing 2016 Ford Explorer 4 DR SUV AWDOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
17.4% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
17.4% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2016 Ford Explorer has 2,394 owner complaints, 37 crash-related complaints, and 14 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Structural Problems. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Ford
- Model
- Explorer
- Model year
- 2016
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 2,394
- Crash-related complaints
- 37
- Safety recall campaigns
- 14
- Top reported component
- Structural Problems
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 20
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 17 / 24
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2016 Ford Explorer problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Structural Problems
Steering Defects
Engine Problems
Complaint patterns center on Structural Problems, Steering Defects, Engine Problems. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2016 Ford Explorer?
The 2016 Ford Explorer shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2016 Ford Explorer
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the vehicle for structural issues, such as body integrity or frame concerns.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for steering and engine components.
- Have a mechanic inspect the steering system and engine before purchase.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect the vehicle for structural issues, such as body integrity or frame concerns.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for steering and engine components.
- Have a mechanic inspect the steering system and engine before purchase.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2016 Ford Explorer, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA data for the 2016 Ford Explorer, complaints are concentrated in structural problems, steering defects, and engine issues. The vehicle has 14 recalls and 37 crash-related complaints, though the confidence level is low due to the limited single-year analysis.
- Structural problems account for the highest number of complaints at 560.
- Steering defects are the second most reported issue with 524 complaints.
- Engine problems follow closely with 490 complaints.
- Structural Problems: 560 complaints reported.
- Steering Defects: 524 complaints reported.
- Engine Problems: 490 complaints reported.
Full breakdown
All 2016 Ford Explorer complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2016 Ford Explorer. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structural Problems | 560 | 4 | 1 | — | |
| Steering Defects | 524 | 10 | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 490 | 3 | 3 | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 414 | 9 | 2 | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 210 | 6 | 4 | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 121 | 1 | 6 | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 103 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 98 | 6 | 1 | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 76 | 1 | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 71 | 8 | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 49 | 2 | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 40 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 36 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 32 | — | 1 | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 29 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 18 | 3 | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 18 | 1 | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 15 | — | — | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 8 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Fuel System | 8 | — | — | — | |
| Lane Departure | 7 | — | 1 | — | |
| Gasoline | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Back Over Prevention | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Traction Control System | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Parking-Brake Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Air | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Other | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment Adaptive/Mobility | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2016 Ford Explorer. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
Coolant leak in the cylinder head grooves that builds up on the seal and leaking into cylinders. Causing coolant loss, white smoke and engine overheating. This issue has left me stranded on the interstate and in danger with potential engine fires. These incidents have exposed mys…
I have an airbag light on as well as the 2nd row inflatable seatbelt has stopped working. I took it into the dealership and they said it was generating codes B141B and B141C. Ford issued a Customer satisfaction program 21B11 specifically to fix this problem in 2022 but it expir…
Smoke coming from engine bay area. Vehicle in limp mode. Mechanic says piston broke a hole in engine wall.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V347000 (Structure) and 24V031000 (Structure); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not repai…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (Structure) and 25V347000 (Structure). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver’s side exterior A-pillar trim was flapping in the wind. …
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the A-pillar and B-pillar trim pieces became loosened and nearly detached from the vehicle. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE), and 25V347000 (STRUCTURE)…
When it rain outside, my passenger side floor has a puddle of rainwater. This happened at least 4 times over the life of my vehicle.
I am writing to formally request your assistance regarding an unresolved recall part issue affecting my 2016 Ford Explorer (VIN# [XXX] ). On [XXX], while driving on [XXX] , the exterior A pillar trim on the front windshield unexpectedly detached, creating a significant safety haz…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V347000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the…
This is the 3rd time I've notified NHTSA about this concern. The remedy for this "safety recall" is still unavaiable. This recall is for the 'B Pillar' appliques; however, as I mentioned in my previous concerns/complaints to NHTSA the 'A Pillar' applique on the driver's side of…
Transmission was rebuilt by Asheville Ford three years ago we’d only put 40,000 miles on it and now it needs a new transmission. We did bring it to another Ford and they had to reseal the casing saying the original sealant wasn’t done right
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (Structure) and 25V347000 (Structure); however, parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The manufacturer was not contacted about the unrepaired recall rep…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE) and 25V347000 (STRUCTURE); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, there was an …
Vehicle equipped with operational red and blue emergency lights prohibited by law, facilitates criminal activity such as impersonation of a police officer, civil regulatory laws regarding excess auxiliary lights, etc. Seller has actual knowledge and can be liable under color of l…
Vehicle equipped with red and blue emergency lights, excessive auxiliary lights prohibited by law, facilitates color of law violations, poses a risk to general public regarding harassment, impersonation of police officer, seller has actual knowledge, strictly liable upon a purcha…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the rear glass unexpectedly shattered. There was no impact on the windshield to cause it to shatter. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer …
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the B-pillar trim on the driver’s side door started to detach. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (Structure) and 25V347000 (Structure); howev…
While driving in the freeway a loud noise came from the outside of the car, I was concerned but no way to pull over safely, the noise was getting louder and thats when I was the pillar of driver side swinging all over the windshield, I was able to lower the window and grab it. I …
Ford has issued two recalls on my vehicle that have not been remedied in a timely manner. The A pillar recall on my 2016 Ford Explorer was issued on November 19, 2024. That replacement part has not been made available more than 16 months after the initial recall. The B pillar …
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2016 Ford Explorer.
Safety recalls
2016 Ford Explorer recalls
14 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2016 Ford Explorer. 14 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
SUSPENSION:REAR
WHEELS:HUB
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
SEATS
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
PARKING BRAKE
STRUCTURE:BODY
POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT
SUSPENSION:REAR
SUSPENSION:REAR
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
STRUCTURE:BODY
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2016 Ford Explorer buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2016 Ford Explorer reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 2,394 owner complaints, 37 crash-related complaints, and 14 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2016 Ford Explorer shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Ford Explorer?▾
#1: Structural Problems (560 complaints). #2: Steering Defects (524 complaints). #3: Engine Problems (490 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2016 Ford Explorer?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2016 Ford Explorer?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2016 Ford Explorer, NHTSA complaints include 37 crash-related reports and 14 fire reports out of 2,394 total complaints. 56 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2016 Ford Explorer have any recalls?▾
Yes. 14 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2016 Ford Explorer. A major recall area is SUSPENSION:REAR. 14 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2016 Ford Explorer?▾
The 2016 Ford Explorer shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Structural Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Ford Explorer reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2016 Ford Explorer based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.