2016 Ford Explorer power train problems
214 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2016 Ford Explorer — 9% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact called on behalf of his wife, who owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while reversing at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle independently accelerated. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact researched online and was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number…”
filed Jul 27, 2026
“My 2016 ford explorers torque converter has failed. It causes a extremely rough idle while in drive or reverse, the rpms vary and at a complete stop the car will continue to lunge forward. If I were to continue to drive the vehicle at any point without warning my transmission could completely lock…”
filed Jul 13, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- Support bracket for the front drive axle halfshaft may failCampaign 20V692000 · Nov 10, 2020
Related service bulletins
During service and repair requiring removal and replacement of a crankshaft bolt and/or crankshaft damper, achieving proper torque of the crankshaft pulley bolt is critical. Incorrect torque may allow the bolt to loosen…
SSM 52314 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Mar 1, 2024
Power Train problems in other Explorer years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Explorer | 2 | 9% |
| 2025 Explorer | 15 | 17% |
| 2024 Explorer | 1 | 5% |
| 2023 Explorer | 11 | 11% |
| 2022 Explorer | 59 | 23% |
| 2021 Explorer | 112 | 28% |
| 2020 Explorer | 465 | 39% |
| 2019 Explorer | 34 | 12% |
| 2018 Explorer | 46 | 6% |
| 2017 Explorer | 123 | 7% |
| 2015 Explorer | 84 | 5% |
| 2014 Explorer | 79 | 5% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2016 Ford Explorer
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.