2016 ford Explorer engine problems

moderate 334 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100

Complaints

334

Recalls

Crashes

Avg fix

$3,100

Related recalls

severe NHTSA 16V183000 31/03/2016

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured November 25, 2013, to January 25, 2016, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured October 20, 2014, to January 28, 2016

Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire.

Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine block heater, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and replace the electrical cord, as necessary. The recall began on May 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S14. Note: Owners should not use the engine block heater until the vehicle has been remedied.

What owners are reporting 3 most recent

engine · filed 12/29/2016

PURCHASED A USED 2016 FORD EXPLORER W/24K ON 8/23/16. CAB FILLS WITH CARBON MONOXIDE. CALLED DEALERSHIP, WE WERE 260 MILES AWAY, THEY SAID IT WAS AN EASY FIX, WAS TOLD TO TURN OFF RECYCLE FOR OUR TRIP BACK. TOOK VEHICLE BACK TO DEALERSHIP. THEY WERE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND USED TSB FIX FOR THIS PROBLEM. I TALKED TO THE FINANCE MANAGER AND HE SAID HE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF BACKING OUT A DEAL BECAU…

engine · filed 12/27/2024

At around 50,000 miles the Turbo on the engine was leaking oil. Dealer replaced the turbo and kept the part. It needed to be replaced to avoid a catastrophic failure of the turbo which in turn could cause severe engine oil loss resulting in engine failure and oil contamination of the catalytic converters O2 sensors and possibly a car fire. There was no warning but was caught during a routine oil …

engine · filed 12/27/2023

Coolant (water) pump leak, leading to replacement or eventual failure. As the pump is located internally of the engine, the effort to repair is quite extensive. This is a known issue for this engine, with previous versions under a recall. The pump location was relocated externally of the engine in future designs, further evidence of the knowledge of the issue.

Common questions

How serious is the engine problem on the 2016 ford Explorer?

It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 334 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.

At what mileage does the engine typically fail?

Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.

What does it cost to fix?

Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.

Are there any recalls related to engine?

Yes — 1 active recall(s) cover engine issues on this vehicle. Recall fixes are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status. Use the VIN decoder at the top of the page to check if your specific vehicle is affected.