2016 Ford Explorer problems and complaints
Owners have filed 2460 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Ford Explorer. The most-reported areas: Structure (591), Steering (531), Unknown Or Other (430).
Key takeaways
- 2460 owner complaints on file with NHTSA.
- 39 involve a crash, 14 a fire, 59 reported injuries.
- Complaints are unverified owner reports; recalls are confirmed defects.
| Component | Complaints | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | 591 | 24% |
| Steering | 531 | 22% |
| Unknown Or Other | 430 | 17% |
| Engine | 382 | 16% |
| Power Train | 215 | 9% |
| Electrical System | 127 | 5% |
| Engine And Engine Cooling | 114 | 5% |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 104 | 4% |
| Air Bags | 99 | 4% |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 76 | 3% |
| Suspension | 73 | 3% |
| Wheels | 50 | 2% |
One complaint can name several components, so shares add up to more than 100%.
| Version | Overall | Front | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Ford Explorer 4 DR SUV AWD | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| 2016 Ford Explorer 4 DR SUV FWD | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Latest complaints, as filed
Owner-written and unverified by NHTSA.
Structure - filed 2026-10-06
manufacturer has failed or is unable to remedy this safety recall for your vehicle in a timely manner. They have only repaired 1 side of the trim. Dealer states driver side is on back order
Power Train,electrical System,engine - filed 2026-10-05
On approximately 09/02, I took my 2016 Ford Explorer to an authorized Ford dealership for recall-related PCM service. After the recall service was completed, I experienced additional problems with the vehicle and returned on 09/4 and I also called the same dealership that same day because I believed something was wrong...
Structure - filed 2026-10-02
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, the A-Pillar trim detached from the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number : 24V031000 ...
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More for the 2016 Ford Explorer
Complaints are reports filed by owners with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. NHTSA publishes them without verifying them, and counts rise with how many cars were sold, so compare years of the same model rather than different models. Crash ratings are NHTSA's own 5-Star Safety Ratings results.