Is the 2016 Ford Explorer reliable?

Based on NHTSA data, CarScorer rates the 2016 Ford Explorer 0.5/10 — Approach with caution. It has 15 NHTSA recalls on record and about 2,435 owner complaints. Always confirm the condition and history of the specific vehicle you're considering.

What are the most common problems with the 2016 Ford Explorer?

The most frequently reported area is Exhaust System. See the known issues listed above for model-specific details, and have a mechanic check those items before buying.

How many recalls does the 2016 Ford Explorer have?

The 2016 Ford Explorer has 15 NHTSA safety recalls on record, including at least one safety-critical recall — verify it was completed at nhtsa.gov before purchasing.

What is a fair price for a used 2016 Ford Explorer?

A used 2016 Ford Explorer typically sells for $13,000–$19,000, depending on mileage, trim, and condition. Compare the asking price against that range before making an offer.

Is the 2016 Ford Explorer expensive to maintain?

Ford maintenance costs are typically moderate, with widely available, affordable parts.

How many miles is too many for a 2016 Ford Explorer?

A well-maintained Ford Explorer can reach ~180,000–200,000 miles. Above ~130k, prioritize service history and an inspection.

Known issues

High recall count or documented complaint patterns. Inspect carefully.

2016 Ford Explorer

Fifth-gen Explorer — exhaust fumes intrusion recall was significant; verify completion.

Typical price: $13,000–$19,000
Recalls: 15
Owner complaints: 2,435

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NHTSA Recalls

15 recalls

Safety-critical recall on record. Verify recall completion at nhtsa.gov before purchasing.

Suspension:Rear#19V435000
A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Wheels:Hub#17E048000
A loss of the wheel or wheel end can increase the risk of a crash.
Seats:Front Assembly:Recliner#16V475000
The seat back may not adequately restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Seats#17V767000
In the event of a crash, a seat occupant that is not properly restrained has an increased risk of injury.
Fuel System, Gasoline:Storage:Tank Assembly:Mounting#15V605000
If the fuel tank separates from the vehicle, a fuel leak may occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine#16V183000
Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire.
Parking Brake#15V464000
If the parking brake does not fully engage and the transmission is left in a gear other than 'Park' while on a slope, the vehicle may roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
Structure:Body#21V316000
A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Owner Complaints

(2,435 total)

Structure515
Steering431
Unknown Or Other286
Engine208
Transmission & Drivetrain129
Engine & Cooling87
Airbag System60
Fuel/Propulsion System41

Known Issues

Known issues contribute -2.30 pts to the score (capped at −3.0 total).

EXHAUST SYSTEMCritical
-1.50 pts
Carbon monoxide intrusion into the passenger cabin via exhaust leaks near the rear liftgate seals — over 2,700 NHTSA complaints and multiple reported injuries. Ford issued a recall (18V-138) and software-controlled pressure relief fix, but many owners report incomplete resolution. Also affected by 6-speed automatic harsh shifts and hesitation (~800 additional complaints). VERIFY CO recall completion by VIN at nhtsa.gov before purchase — safety-critical defect with documented injuries.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGModerate
-0.80 pts
2.0L EcoBoost timing chain noise and stretch. ~500 NHTSA complaints. Also check for exhaust fume intrusion into cabin — separate documented issue affecting this generation. Ford issued TSBs for both.

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2016 Ford Explorer reliable?: Based on NHTSA data, CarScorer rates the 2016 Ford Explorer 0.5/10 — Approach with caution. It has 15 NHTSA recalls on record and about 2,435 owner complaints. Always confirm the condition and history of the specific vehicle you're considering.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Ford Explorer?: The most frequently reported area is Exhaust System. See the known issues listed above for model-specific details, and have a mechanic check those items before buying.
How many recalls does the 2016 Ford Explorer have?: The 2016 Ford Explorer has 15 NHTSA safety recalls on record, including at least one safety-critical recall — verify it was completed at nhtsa.gov before purchasing.
What is a fair price for a used 2016 Ford Explorer?: A used 2016 Ford Explorer typically sells for $13,000–$19,000, depending on mileage, trim, and condition. Compare the asking price against that range before making an offer.
Is the 2016 Ford Explorer expensive to maintain?: Ford maintenance costs are typically moderate, with widely available, affordable parts.
How many miles is too many for a 2016 Ford Explorer?: A well-maintained Ford Explorer can reach ~180,000–200,000 miles. Above ~130k, prioritize service history and an inspection.

Find a 2016 Ford Explorer for sale

Use your CarScorer analysis to negotiate with confidence. Open each listing site in a new tab to compare active inventory.

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Accessories & exterior protection

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Suspension & performance

Wheel spacers, leveling & lift kits, suspension

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2019 Buick Encore

$11,000–$16,000

2017 Jeep Cherokee

$10,000–$16,000

2017 Ford Escape

$9,000–$14,000

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Known issues

High recall count or documented complaint patterns. Inspect carefully.

2016 Ford Explorer

Fifth-gen Explorer — exhaust fumes intrusion recall was significant; verify completion.

Typical price: $13,000–$19,000
Recalls: 15
Owner complaints: 2,435

ShareX f

Have a specific 2016 Ford Explorer to check?

Get a free instant score for this model — recalls, known issues, and a fair-price estimate — then add your VIN, mileage, and price for a listing-specific result. No account needed.

Score this vehicle free

NHTSA Recalls

15 recalls

Safety-critical recall on record. Verify recall completion at nhtsa.gov before purchasing.

Suspension:Rear#19V435000
A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Wheels:Hub#17E048000
A loss of the wheel or wheel end can increase the risk of a crash.
Seats:Front Assembly:Recliner#16V475000
The seat back may not adequately restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Seats#17V767000
In the event of a crash, a seat occupant that is not properly restrained has an increased risk of injury.
Fuel System, Gasoline:Storage:Tank Assembly:Mounting#15V605000
If the fuel tank separates from the vehicle, a fuel leak may occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine#16V183000
Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire.
Parking Brake#15V464000
If the parking brake does not fully engage and the transmission is left in a gear other than 'Park' while on a slope, the vehicle may roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
Structure:Body#21V316000
A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Owner Complaints

(2,435 total)

Structure515
Steering431
Unknown Or Other286
Engine208
Transmission & Drivetrain129
Engine & Cooling87
Airbag System60
Fuel/Propulsion System41

Known Issues

Known issues contribute -2.30 pts to the score (capped at −3.0 total).

EXHAUST SYSTEMCritical
-1.50 pts
Carbon monoxide intrusion into the passenger cabin via exhaust leaks near the rear liftgate seals — over 2,700 NHTSA complaints and multiple reported injuries. Ford issued a recall (18V-138) and software-controlled pressure relief fix, but many owners report incomplete resolution. Also affected by 6-speed automatic harsh shifts and hesitation (~800 additional complaints). VERIFY CO recall completion by VIN at nhtsa.gov before purchase — safety-critical defect with documented injuries.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGModerate
-0.80 pts
2.0L EcoBoost timing chain noise and stretch. ~500 NHTSA complaints. Also check for exhaust fume intrusion into cabin — separate documented issue affecting this generation. Ford issued TSBs for both.

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2016 Ford Explorer reliable?: Based on NHTSA data, CarScorer rates the 2016 Ford Explorer 0.5/10 — Approach with caution. It has 15 NHTSA recalls on record and about 2,435 owner complaints. Always confirm the condition and history of the specific vehicle you're considering.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Ford Explorer?: The most frequently reported area is Exhaust System. See the known issues listed above for model-specific details, and have a mechanic check those items before buying.
How many recalls does the 2016 Ford Explorer have?: The 2016 Ford Explorer has 15 NHTSA safety recalls on record, including at least one safety-critical recall — verify it was completed at nhtsa.gov before purchasing.
What is a fair price for a used 2016 Ford Explorer?: A used 2016 Ford Explorer typically sells for $13,000–$19,000, depending on mileage, trim, and condition. Compare the asking price against that range before making an offer.
Is the 2016 Ford Explorer expensive to maintain?: Ford maintenance costs are typically moderate, with widely available, affordable parts.
How many miles is too many for a 2016 Ford Explorer?: A well-maintained Ford Explorer can reach ~180,000–200,000 miles. Above ~130k, prioritize service history and an inspection.

Find a 2016 Ford Explorer for sale

Use your CarScorer analysis to negotiate with confidence. Open each listing site in a new tab to compare active inventory.

CarGurus AutoTrader Cars.com Edmunds

Financing

Compare auto loan offers before you buy

One application, up to 4 loan offers in minutes

Accessories & exterior protection

Shop accessories & exterior protection

Floor mats, running boards, fender flares, tonneau covers & more

Suspension & performance

Wheel spacers, leveling & lift kits, suspension

KSP Performance — 5% off site-wide with code KSPAF

Need a rental while you shop?

Browse rental cars from $9/day

CarScorer may earn a commission from these links, at no cost to you.

Compare the 2016 Ford Explorer

Featured in

Also consider

2019 Buick Encore

$11,000–$16,000

2017 Jeep Cherokee

$10,000–$16,000

2017 Ford Escape

$9,000–$14,000

Score any used car listing in 2 minutes

CarScorer pulls NHTSA data, checks known issues, and compares the asking price against market value — all in one score. Free, no account required for a basic check.

Try CarScorer free