Ford occasionally smashes a home run in the major leagues, but other times Ford merely gets out. A prime example of Ford’s complete failure to produce a quality automobile is the 2016 Ford Explorer. There is a whole host of 2016 Ford Explorer problems that have been documented over the years.
According to CarComplaints.com, the 2016 Ford Explorer was the subject of the following complaints from owners.
In this post, we strive to find out the major problems with the 2016 model of Ford Explorer. We will also pay close attention to the transmission.
2016 Ford Explorer
The Explorer receives its most substantial change since 2011, although it isn’t a whole overhaul, for 2016. New front and rear appearance, a current top trim level, as well as some new equipment are among the modifications.
The addition of a new four-cylinder EcoBoost engine is the biggest mechanical modification.
Is Four Finally Enough?
The 2.0-liter EcoBoost, which had been an additional cost option over the 3.5-liter V-6 standard but had a dismal take rate ranging from two and four percent, has been replaced by the 2.3-liter EcoBoost.
Why does Ford believe this time will be different?
Well, there are several factors!
First off, compared to the smaller EcoBoost four, the 2.3-liter’s 280 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque signify improvements of 40 horsepower as well as 40 lb-ft.
Second, the 2.3-liter would be offered with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, unlike the 2.0-liter.
The 2.3 could tow a maximum of 3000 pounds when the 2.0 wasn’t suggested for towing.
1. The Explorer Goes Platinum
The twin-turbocharged, 365-horsepower EcoBoost V6 engine is at the other extreme of the engine spectrum, and Ford is prudently expanding its availability for 2016.
The turbo V-6, which was previously limited to the Sport and only available with all-wheel drive, is now also present in the new Platinum model.
The Platinum comes with special features both inside and out, like a chromium-based grille as well as quilted leather seating, in addition to the EcoBoost V-6.
It also includes every option available on an Explorer as standard, and its starting price of $53,495 reflects this.
Ford claims that the large bulk of Sport trim buyers chose to fully commit to that model, so they believe there is a demand for a packed Explorer with the best powertrain yet without the pretense of a sports car.
Ford seems to have been successful in making the Sport a little bit more, well, sporty because the Platinum caters to the clientele who wants an Explorer with everything.
The steering has been slightly retuned, and the spring rates and shocks have been tightened. However, we can’t argue that the adjustments have had a transformative effect.
The Sport was pretty much just as we remembered it to be: remarkably decent handling for such a large vehicle—although the same can be said of the ordinary Explorer.
2. The Ride Quality
The Sport’s ride quality hasn’t been significantly affected by the suspension changes either; it’s still fairly nice on even 20-inch rolling stock.
With 350 lb-ft of torque, the turbo V-6 continues to rank among the most powerful engines for three-row crossovers.
That will get the children to soccer practice in plenty of time.
Although the Platinum includes everything, it’s commendable that many essential functions may be had without upgrading to the Platinum.
An all-wheel drive is an option that is available on all versions, to start.
3. The Features
On the XLT as well as higher, leather, GPS, blind-spot warning, and an option of a chair or buckets within the second row are all options.
On the Limited and Sport trims, lane-keep assistance, as well as adaptive cruise control with front collision warning, are options.
A hands-free power liftgate, washers for the 180-degree front and back cameras, and expanded functionality for the optional automatic parking system are new features for 2016.
Real wood, matte aluminum, and glossy plastic are prominently featured in the interior trim of Platinum versions, but less expensive Explorers have also seen a little update.
There is an improved dash trim, and the armrest on the redesigned door panels is more comfortable.
The Explorer still has some packing restrictions, though.
The wheel-well incursion is still noticeable, making for a slightly uncomfortable driving stance, despite a redesigned driver’s dead pedal that travels forward and adjusts its angle.
One could feel trapped within the car if it has a high cowl and large, flared A-pillars.
Because the front seats are now smaller, Ford has managed to create a little more leg room in the middle row.
Despite only having room for two, the third row is nevertheless among the best in its class; in contrast, several rivals (overly optimistically) offer seatbelts for three.
Due to a well on the floor, the cargo compartment behind the split-third seat is still better than most.
Problems With 2016 Ford Explorer
2016 Ford Explorer Problems #1 – Faulty Throttle
The throttle of an automobile is responsible for supplying and managing the flow of air and fuel to the engine.
The throttle helps to manage the valve so that a certain amount of evaporated gasoline may go to the internal combustion chambers of the engine. This is a crucial component of the intake which controls how much air enters the engine.
As you push the pedal, a throttle position sensor inside your car determines where your foot is and sends this information to the computer.
The position of the pedal determines how much gas is injected into the system.
When you find a broken throttle body, there are obvious symptoms to listen for when correcting 2016 Ford Explorer difficulties.
Carbon deposits, filth, and grime – Grime and dirt inside the housing can build up and restrict airflow.
Electrical problems – Electrical hiccups or faults may cause the transmission of incorrect information to the car’s computer.
Vacuum Leaks – The vacuum leaks prevent airflow, which affects the stopping and body pressure of the throttle.
Poor or High Idle – If the throttle body is malfunctioning, you may notice rough idling, stalling, a sudden halt after an extraordinarily low idle, or an exceptionally high idle.
How To Avoid It:
When reviewing the most frequent 2016 Ford Explorer issues, the throttle body comes up very frequently. The great thing is that there are several things that you can do to prevent this issue from occurring in the future.
Destruction of the throttle body is particularly worrisome because it can put drivers in danger. After all, the fuel injection system won’t work.
When a car loses momentum while driving or has a rough idle, the check engine light should appear on the dashboard.
A few Explorer owners claim that when driving, the car will suddenly lose all power, requiring them to stop over for their safety.
Luckily for car owners, the significant volume of complaints led to the recall of this part.
2016 Ford Explorer Problems #2 – Power Steering Failure
Power steering plays a critical role in maintaining and controlling your vehicle on the road.
For a vehicle to operate safely, power steering fluid, which controls every power steering component—including the pump, the columns, the hose, the rack, and the pinion—must be present.
You could be unable to move the wheel with the appropriate force as a result of a power steering leakage or other 2016 Ford Explorer problems. This could be increasing your risk of a crash.
Inadequate lubrication in the car’s internal systems and component failure are the main causes of power steering leakage.
Your car’s rings, gaskets, and seals deteriorate over time as a result of heavy use, heat, and wear.
The frequent symptoms of a bad steering system, such as an out-of-center steering wheel, trouble turning, stiff steering, as well as a failing gearbox, can help drivers identify the indicators of a power steering leak
To stop the 2016 Ford Explorer issues from getting worse, car owners must be aware of such symptoms and warnings.
How To Prevent This:
The power steering system in the 2016 Ford Explorer is infamous because of being unreliable and unimpressive.
Many car owners report that the vehicle unexpectedly became quite challenging to steer, frequently requiring the driver to figure out a secure method to stop without harming themselves or other vehicles.
Owners who take their Explorer in for maintenance discover that the steering rack’s complete failure, not simply the power steering system, is the main reason for the car’s lack of control.
The steering rack serves as the major point of attention for the steering system, highlighting the importance of a steering box in controlling your car.
When the box slowly degrades or breaks, the steering may become weakened and incapable.
This is one of the most serious and dangerous 2016 Ford Explorer problems.
Repairing a steering rack as well as pinion system leak typically costs $500 to $1000, making it far more expensive to repair than most other power steering system parts.
However, paying for this repair will help you prevent your 2016 Ford Explorer problems from causing further damage and from malfunctioning.
2016 Ford Explorer Problems #3 – Loss Of Power While Driving
The sudden stalling or turning off of the 2016 Ford Explorer while in motion may be the most terrifying concern.
This can increase the likelihood of a crash for many other drivers who are driving in addition to being extremely dangerous for both you and your vehicle.
Let’s investigate the root reasons for the 2016 Ford Explorer’s loss of power when driving.
1. Crankshaft Position Sensor Error
This device is essential for the proper operation of your car’s engine. The check engine light may illuminate if the crankshaft sensor malfunctions.
Additionally, the absence of engine spark as well as crank will prevent your engine from starting if your crankshaft is broken.
You can resolve the 2016 Ford Explorer issues for between $195 and $250 by changing your crankshaft position sensor.
2. Fuel Pump Malfunction
The fuel pump is responsible for supplying the engine with the correct amount of fuel so that it can operate as intended.
The engine will be unable to run and shut off when the fuel pump also isn’t providing the proper amount of fuel.
Depending on labor and components costs, replacing your fuel pump can cost between $220 and $1060, with labor normally taking 2 to 3 hours.
3. Empty Fuel Tank
If the fuel gauge is malfunctioning, your car risk running out of fuel.
This could imply that even when the meter indicates you have enough gasoline to complete your journey, you nevertheless run out of gas.
Regardless of whether you run out of gas as a result of a human error or fuel gauge malfunction, you should still have your car inspected by a professional.
For $250 to $800, you can replace the fuel gauge sensor and stop additional 2016 Ford Explorer issues.
4. Problems With The Alternator
Your automobile’s alternator is responsible for supplying your car with a steady supply of power. If your automobile suddenly stops working while you’re driving, your alternator has likely failed.
Your car’s vital components will lose power due to a damaged alternator, which will cause your dash to flash or the engine to abruptly shut off.
You might need to spend between $300 and $500 to change your alternator in order to address the 2016 Ford Explorer issues.
2016 Ford Explorer Problems #4 – Broken ECU
Your car’s ECU is a computer that controls all of the systems and operations. It ensures that everything works as it should.
To ensure that the engine is performing at its best, the engine control module regulates the actuators on the engine.
Your Ford Explorer’s electronic control unit replacement will cost from $400 and $1400 for the item. An additional $100 to $200 for labor for a two to three hour job.
How To Prevent This:
By keeping an eye on the throttle body’s performance and functionality levels, as well as other powertrain-related components in their car, drivers may try to prevent these 2016 Ford Explorer series issues.
Similar to throttle body issues, the complaints from automobile owners involve an abrupt loss of power or an unintentional, quick deceleration.
You can resolve the 2016 Ford Explorer issues for between $195 and $250 by changing the crankshaft position sensor.
2016 Ford Explorer Problems #5 – Interior
Concerns regarding the inside of the Ford Explorer are widespread in the automotive industry.
The 2016 Explorer’s seats are the most frequently encountered interior issue.
Owners claim that indeed the seats are uncomfortable. They also say that there isn’t enough room for numerous persons to continue to sit in the third row.
The seats are also uncomfortable, yet at least three different accidents have been attributed to them.
A new car seat typically costs $800 for the material kit, $750 for fitting, and $2,500 for custom upholstery for the whole car.
The dashboard screen of the Explorer is the subject of another complaint about the interior
Some consumers claim that their dashboards malfunction and go blank, providing them with little or no details about their cars
The labor at your local mechanic will cost you between $570 and $720 for 6-7 hours of work. The typical price of a dashboard restoration is between $2120 and $2270, according to some estimates.
Last but not least, Explorer owners have complained about radio issues.
The radio in the car occasionally turns on and off. And although though it is a small 2016 Ford Explorer issue, car owners might still find it bothersome
Your car’s complete audio system can be replaced for between $100 to $1000
The typical price of the radio installation varies from $50 to $200. This depends on the severity of some of the other 2016 Ford Explorer problems.
2016 Ford Explorer Problems #6 – Engine Issues
The steering, transmission, safety system, electrical connections, air conditioning, heating, and engine categories are all among the most challenging automotive components.
There are several issues, and they range in severity.
The most frequent issue with the 2016 Ford Explorer engine issues is the engine stopping or shutting off at random times.
This commonly happens in Explorers that are less than 10,000 miles old. It shows how unreliable and short-lived these more modern models are.
Because of reliability issues, the Explorer’s engine problems caused at least one accident, one fire, and seven casualties.
For the 2016 Ford Explorer problems, an engine rebuild typically costs from $2,500 and $4,000.
You will need about $400 to $1000 to replace the starter.
You can fix the 2016 Ford Explorer’s less severe engine problems for between $200 to $300 by replacing the piston rings and cylinder walls.
If an engine is damaged, it might be necessary to spend between $1000 and $2,000 to change the water pump, the oil pump, lifters, and bearings.
You can completely fix the 2016 Ford Explorer problems for about $4,000 and $8,000 by changing the engine.
There have been no recalls because of the 2016 Ford Explorer engine issues, despite the large and serious concerns.
2016 Ford Explorer Transmission Problems
One of the most crucial components of the 2016 Ford Explorer is the transmission. Transmission issues involving the 2016 Ford Explorer may leave the 2016 Ford Explorer undrivable.
Your 2016 Ford Explorer’s transmission is the component of a 2016 Ford Explorer that transfers engine power to the driveshaft. This in turn aids in turning the wheels.
Maintaining your gearbox properly will always improve its performance, extend its lifespan, and reduce the number of repairs it needs.
However, let’s assume your transmission does experience issues. Being aware of some of the most typical transmission issues will speed up your ability to identify and fix them.
So, the most typical transmission issues are:
1. Low Fluid Levels Or Leaks
The most frequent transmission issues are by far low transmission fluid levels or fluid leakage. Leaks inside the transmission system are indeed typically to blame for low transmission fluid levels.
The driveshaft or transmission’s seals could develop problems and start to leak fluid. To stop transmission leaks, you might need to occasionally replace transmission gasket seals.
In some cases, the coolant inside the radiator may contaminate the transmission fluid. Cross-contamination occurs occasionally.
In general, slow shifting or gear slippages are signs of low fluid levels and fluid leaks. If the fluid is old or contaminated, you must replace it. You must cleanse and refill the transmission.
2. Torque Converter Problems
Transmission damage or failure can be caused by a variety of issues with torque converters as well as transmissions.
Needle bearings that are faulty or broken are one of the torque converter’s most frequent issues.
You will typically hear odd noises emanating from the transmission when in driving gears if the needle bearings get warm.
The transmission probably won’t produce any odd noises when the car is in neutral. That said, when it’s in drive, it might start to grind or brush.
3. Solenoid Problems
The solenoid manages the transmission’s fluid flow.
Oftentimes, a solenoid can suffer damage as a result of inadequate fluid concentrations or other electronic issues.
The majority of the time, solenoid issues resemble leaks or insufficient fluid levels.
You should check the solenoid next if the 2016 Ford Explorer’s drivetrain is sliding and there aren’t any leaks.
4. Clutch Problems
Another major problem is that the clutch, which is inside the torque converter, occasionally becomes stuck.
The solenoid may lock up when the clutch jams. Also, the quantity of transmission fluid inside the torque converter could not be calculated properly.
These torque converter clutch issues of this nature also resemble low fluid levels quite closely.
In addition to causing intense shaking underneath the car, clutch issues can also cause the transmission to become extremely hot. In most cases, you’ll also notice a dramatic decrease in your engine’s power output.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ford Explorers Reliable
The Ford Explorer’s predicted reliability score is 81 percent. 91 to 100 is considered the greatest, 81 to 90 is considered good, 70 to 80 is considered medium, while 0-69 is considered fair and well below average.
How Long Do Ford Explorers Last
The Ford Explorer has a range of 200,000 miles when kept up with. But their average lifespan is reduced to about 100,000 miles or fewer due to serious problems in two different generations. Implementing all advised maintenance, including the proposed 18-point examination, can aid in spotting issues before they get out of hand.
Where Are Ford Explorers Made
Ford produced the Explorer’s first four generations in two locations: the now-closed St. Louis Assembly Plant at Hazelwood, Missouri, and the Louisville Assembly Plant, Kentucky. Currently, Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant produces the model line (Chicago, Illinois).
