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2016 Ford Explorer

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2016 Ford Explorer, organized by category and specific engine/transmission combinations.

The 2016 Ford Explorer is a popular SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available technology. Engine options include a 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 (290 horsepower, 255 lb-ft of torque), a 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (280 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque) and a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (365 horsepower, 350 lb-ft of torque - Sport/Platinum models). All engine options were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Explorer’s versatility and user-friendly features but criticize its reliability and repair costs.

Engine

3.5L Ti-VCT V6

  • Water Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Internal water pump failure leading to coolant mixing with engine oil. Symptoms include engine overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and a milky appearance of the oil.
    • Solution: Replacement of the internal water pump, oil change, and inspection for any engine damage caused by coolant contamination.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or fail, leading to rough running, misfires, and potential engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, check engine light, and poor performance.
    • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.3L EcoBoost I4

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure can occur due to oil starvation, excessive heat, or component wear. Symptoms include a loss of power, whistling noise from the turbo, and check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger. Check oil lines and intercooler for blockages.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Intrusion
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking into the cylinders of the engine
    • Solution: Replacement of the engine
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000-$8,000
    • Recalls: None Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6

  • Water Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Internal water pump failure leading to coolant mixing with engine oil. Symptoms include engine overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and a milky appearance of the oil.
    • Solution: Replacement of the internal water pump, oil change, and inspection for any engine damage caused by coolant contamination.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking in the turbocharger housing. Symptoms include a loss of power, whistling noise from the turbo, and check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or harsh shifting between gears, slipping during acceleration, or failure to shift properly. This is often attributed to valve body issues or wear in the transmission internals.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (flush) - $1,000+ (valve body) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replace)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: A shudder or vibration felt during light acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Often caused by wear or failure of the torque converter.
    • Solution: Torque converter replacement or transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Toe Link Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear toe link breaking, causing loss of control.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear toe link.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: 16V245000
  • Rear Suspension Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Could be caused by worn bushings, loose components, or failing shocks/struts.
    • Solution: Inspection and replacement of worn suspension components, such as bushings, shocks/struts, sway bar links, or control arms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (depending on the components replaced)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • PCM Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The car may stall, hesitate, or experience rough idling.
    • Solution: Reprogram the PCM
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • SYNC System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or failure to connect to devices. Issues with Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, or voice commands.
    • Solution: Software update, SYNC module replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (update) - $500+ (module replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Ajar Warning
    • Description/Symptoms: The “door ajar” warning light stays illuminated even when all doors are securely closed. This can drain the battery and prevent certain features from working correctly.
    • Solution: Replacing the door latch/sensor assembly, cleaning or repairing wiring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Liftgate Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power liftgate failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. This can be due to a faulty motor, damaged struts, or issues with the latch mechanism.
    • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate motor, struts, or latch assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • HVAC Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The heating and air conditioning system malfunctions, blowing only hot or cold air, or failing to adjust temperature properly. Can be caused by a faulty blend door actuator.
    • Solution: Replacing the blend door actuator, repairing vacuum lines, or addressing other HVAC component failures.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Motor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Power seats failing to move or adjust properly, due to a faulty motor or switch.
    • Solution: Replacement of the seat motor or switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per seat
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Ford Explorer, while offering a comfortable and spacious driving experience, has several common issues. Engine problems, particularly with water pump failures and turbocharger issues, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, electrical glitches with the SYNC system, and rear suspension concerns add to the potential ownership costs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs potentially exceeding several thousand dollars depending on the specific problem. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection and be prepared for potential maintenance needs.

Ford, Explorer
Ford Explorer 2016
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