Vehicles · Insights

2016 Ford Explorer

What 2016 Ford Explorer owners report most

Structure-related complaints make up the largest share of owner reports, with steering failures and engine noise also appearing frequently across the complaint set. Owners describe a range of sudden and unexpected behaviors — including loss of steering control, unintended liftgate movement, acceleration failure, and persistent cooling fan noise. Some complaints across multiple areas note associated fires or crashes, indicating the issues can occur in consequential driving situations.

Most reported areas

Structure safety 23%
Owners report the liftgate closing on its own while the vehicle is parked, with dealers in some cases unable to diagnose or repair the condition. · 1 fire · 4 crash · 6 injured
Steering safety 22%
Owners report sudden complete loss of power steering accompanied by a steering assist fault message on the dashboard, along with traction and stability warning indicators. · 10 crash · 7 injured
Engine safety 16%
Owners report loud squealing from the radiator cooling fan at idle and low speeds, with the noise recurring shortly after the fan was already replaced at a shop. · 3 fire · 3 crash · 8 injured
Power Train safety 9%
Owners report the vehicle suddenly losing the ability to accelerate from a stop, requiring the engine to be shut off and restarted before movement is possible. · 4 fire · 6 crash
Electrical System safety 5%
123 reports (5%) · 6 fire · 1 crash · 4 injured

Source: NHTSA owner complaints · 2,413 complaints

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General information compiled from public NHTSA complaint data, for reference only — not professional advice and not reviewed by automotive experts. Verify before acting; Team AM is not responsible for decisions made from it.