- The problem
- 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. The affected vehicles are equipped with 2.3L GTDI engines and engine block heaters. These engine block heaters have elements that may overheat while plugged in.
- The risk
- Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire.
- The 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.
Engine & cooling
2016 Ford Explorer Engine problems
Owners have filed 483 complaints about the 2016 Ford Explorer's engine & cooling with NHTSA - 20% of all its complaints, most recently on October 5, 2026. They describe 3 crashes, 3 fires and 13 injuries. Stalling, loss of power, oil consumption, overheating, head gaskets, timing chains and engine failure.
- Complaints
- 483
- Recalls
- 1
- Crashes
- 3
- Fires
- 3
- Injuries
- 13
- Deaths
- 0
Engine recalls for the 2016 Ford Explorer
Engine complaints
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 following the repair. The dealership replaced the battery but did not perform additional diagnostics unless I paid out of pocket. I was unable to immediately afford those diagnostic charges, so I...
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later sought additional diagnosis. The vehicle continued to experience drivability/electrical problems, including misfire symptoms and eventually a no-start condition. After further testing, another authorized Ford dealership diagnosed the PCM as faulty. I contacted Ford Motor Company because I am concerned that the recall service, programming, or work performed during the recall may have contributed to the PCM failure. Ford closed my case because the recall was marked completed and stated that my vehicle is outside its warranty period. I returned the vehicle two days after servicing dealership as the recall repair to report problems. I am requesting that this be reviewed as a possible recall-repair-related safety issue. The PCM failure and associated engine/electrical problems could affect drivability and the vehicle's ability to operate safely. The vehicle and related repair records are available for inspection.
I am writing to report a severe, inherently dangerous engineering defect regarding the internal water pump design on the 2016 Ford Explorer equipped with the 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 engine.On September 8, 2026, my vehicle experienced a sudden, catastrophic primary seal failure of the internal water pump while operating. The vehicle immediately began dumping large quantities of engine coolant onto the ground from the designated engine block weep hole located on the lower passenger side. Because Ford engineered...
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this specific engine with the water pump hidden entirely behind the front timing cover and driven directly by the engine's timing chain, any mechanical failure of the pump poses an immediate, severe safety risk to the driver and occupants. If the secondary pump seal fails or the weep hole becomes obstructed, coolant dumps directly into the engine crankcase, mixing with the engine oil. This sudden loss of lubrication can cause the internal pump bearings to seize rapidly, leading to the timing chain snapping or jumping tracks.The consequences of this design create two distinct, critical safety hazards:Sudden Engine Stall at Speed: A seized water pump or broken timing chain will cause an instantaneous, un-commanded engine shutdown while traveling at highway speeds. This immediately cuts off the vehicle's power steering assist and power brake booster, placing the driver at extreme risk of a high-speed collision. Passenger Cabin Hazmat Hazard: A major coolant dump underneath the engine bay onto hot exhaust components generates blinding steam and toxic chemical fumes that can enter the vehicle's HVAC system, severely impairing driver visibility and breathing.This internal, chain-driven water pump design is a known, systemic manufacturing defect that forces vehicle owners to pay between 3,000 and 5,000 in preventative labor to fix an auxiliary cooling component before it destroys the entire engine block. I urge the NHTSA to open a formal safety investigation int
Truck turns off
See attached document for complaint.
Vehicle: 2016 Ford Explorer 2WD V6-3.5L VIN: [[redacted]] rchase: January 20, 2026 Odometer at Purchase: 70,929 miles (fraudulent - true mileage approximately 123,779 miles) Dealer: Drive Time Car Sales Company LLC, DBA Drive Time, 8805 E Adamo Dr, Tampa, FL 33619-3525 Narrative - Copy and Paste Into NHTSA Online Form: On January 20, 2026, I purchased a 2016 Ford Explorer 2WD V6-3.5L (VIN: [[redacted]] ) fr [[redacted]] Sales Company LLC, located at 8805 E Adamo Dr, Tampa, Florida 33619-3525. At the time of sale,...
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the vehicle had three open, unrepaired federal safety recalls: 1. NHTSA Recall 19V435 / Ford 19S17 - Rear Suspension Toe Link Replacement (initiated June 26, 2019, affecting 1,194,173 vehicles). The rear suspension toe links may fracture, causing sudden loss of vehicle handling and risk of crash. 2. NHTSA Recall 21V537 / Ford 21S32 - Rear Suspension Toe Link Cross-Axis Ball Joint (owner notifications mailed March 2022, affecting 644,055 vehicles). The cross-axis ball joint may corrode and seize, causing toe link fracture and loss of steering control. 3. NHTSA Recall 25V347 / Ford 25S53 - B-Pillar Door Trim Detachment (owner notifications mailed June 2025, affecting 492,145 vehicles). B-pillar trim may detach while driving, creating a road hazard for other motorists. None of these recalls were repaired prior to sale. The dealer had documented actual knowledge of all three open recalls. Drive Time provided me with copies of the recall notices as part of the purchase paperwork at the time of sale. Additionally, the recall documentation included a printout from the NHTSA recall lookup website for this specific VIN, timestamped January 19, 2026, at 5:28 PM - the day before the sale - proving that Drive Time actively investigated and confirmed the open recalls within hours of delivering the vehicle. Ford's own dealer notice for Recall 19V435/19S17 states: "Federal law requires dealers to complete this recall service before a new vehicle is INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
When acceleration hot air blows through dashboard fogging front driver windows. Weather strips in doors are coming apart.
Coolant leak in the cylinder head grooves that builds up on the seal and leaking into cylinders. Causing coolant loss, white smoke and engine overheating. This issue has left me stranded on the interstate and in danger with potential engine fires. These incidents have exposed myself and the general public to unnecesary safety hazards.
Smoke coming from engine bay area. Vehicle in limp mode. Mechanic says piston broke a hole in engine wall.
While driving the crankcase sensor malfunctioned and caused my vehicle to stall without warning, this is a safety issue because of you are driving at highway speeds this will prevent the vehicle from being controlled properly to get to the side of the road. This sensor does not give any engine codes suggesting that it needs replaced until it goes out completely. The check engine light did not come on until after the component failed. I ordered a new part directly through Ford and even they said "yes that part will...
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go out without any warning at all and will shut the engine down completely". When this sensor went out, it also caused pressure to build up in the engine which in turn has led to several other components that now need to be replaced. I have a had a mechanic look at it, and it now requires a turbo intake hose and a new turbo because the pressure that was built up in the engine due to the crankcase sensor going out burst the turbo intake hose and prevented the turbo from working correctly. It's approximately $4,000 in repairs due to a $150 part going out.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 21V316000 (STRUCTURE), 24V031000 (STRUCTURE), and 25V347000 (STRUCTURE). However, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that rainwater was leaking inside the vehicle and standing water had accumulated on the carpet. The water was leaking from the front door, the roof near the dome light, and the glove compartment. The...
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contact was unsure of where the water was entering the vehicle. The contact stated that there was a musty odor inside the vehicle. Most recently, while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal burnt odor inside the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was constantly illuminated since the vehicle was purchased. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving in traffic, a trim piece detached from the vehicle. The TPMS and check engine warning light were illuminated. The dealer sent a tech to the contact's place of employment, but the tech was unable to complete the recall repair due to the bolt not being available. The contact had received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (Structure) and 25V347000 (Structure). The contact stated that the turbocharger had been replaced on...
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three occasions. Upon investigation, the contact had linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V925000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact called the local dealer, who confirmed the parts for the recall repairs were not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a complaint was filed, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was unknown.
Coolant intrusion in the cylinder walls
Torque converter issue causes shuddered, can cause driver to unexpectedly adjust speed rapidly.
Good Morning, I'm reaching out in regards to my 2016 Ford Explorer. I've been trying to get the necessary recall repairs completed, but unfortunately, I've been unable to locate the required pillars for the repairs. I recently brought my vehicle back to the dealership, but was told that no work can be done until both parts are available. I was also advised to try sourcing one of the parts from another Ford dealership on my own, which I've had no luck with. To be honest, I'm feeling very overwhelmed. I purchased...
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this vehicle used, back in September 2025, and since then, it has been one issue after another. I've already invested more into mechanical repairs than what I currently owe on the vehicle. I'm a [[redacted]], and this vehicle is our only mode of transportation. I'm growing increasingly concerned for our safety, especially knowing that the recall parts are critical and things could start to fall apart - literally - if they're not addressed soon. With that said, I would greatly appreciate your help in exploring any other options available through Ford or the dealership. Some specific questions I have are: Is there any way for the dealership to help source the necessary parts through other Ford networks or escalate this to Ford corporate? Can you assist with a temporary vehicle solution while waiting on the parts (loaner or rental)? Would there be any way to explore trading in or transitioning into another vehicle, even with the current issues and financial position I'm in? I understand that supply issues happen, but I'm just trying to keep my kids and myself safe, and right now I'm feeling stuck. I would extremely appreciate any help or direction you can offer. Please feel free to call or email me directly. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, [[redacted]] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the engine overheated, and the temperature gauge had increased to high with the check engine warning light remaining illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the water pump was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 116,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled after coming from a stop. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The contact stated that the water pump had previously been replaced twice, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that there was coolant intrusion in engine and the water pump needed to be replaced for the third time. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 177,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that upon engaging the parking brake, the parking brake failed to remain engaged. Additionally, the contact stated that upon activating the A/C, the A/C was blowing hot air. The vehicle was taken to a Mazda dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was a blockage in the engine block heater. The dealer informed the contact that no authorization was provided to repair the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
I've had it twice be an issue where the engine didn't run quite right. The first time I took it to the mechanic it was determined the timing chain was bad and they also said this is a well known issue with the ecoboost engines in these explorers. Only about a year later after replacing that and the water pump I went to start the explorer and it wouldn't start. Took it to the mechanic again and they found that the timing chain, again, had failed and this time it also caused damage to a piston rod. They said they...
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were surprised it wasn't catastrophic damage to the engine because of this. I've now had to spend literally thousands of dollars on this vehicle for timing chain related issues alone in just over 3 years of owning it. Searching online finds unending reports of similar issues to this as well as massive issues with the turbos and the cam phasers that also commonly are causing catastrophic engine failures despite routine preventative maintenance being performed. And the a pillar recall issue. I had it inspected December of 2024 and determined it needed them replaced. I was not given a time frame when that would be completed. I got a call over a month ago from the dealer saying to call them to schedule a repair. I did so and then was told that while I was on the list they still are unable to get any parts from Ford to repair this mandated recall and also cannot get a timeline on when said parts would be available. I'm almost six months past them saying it's been ordered and still no idea when it'll be repaired. And now a second recall was just announced for the b post coverings and I'm sure this will be just as bad. As many issues as this car is having I think Ford should have to pay for a lot more recalls than they have so far. I also had to have two other recalls fixed that the selling dealer didn't address before selling to me.
Took the family SUV in for a standard oil change and 100k service to Ford dealership. Upon performing a coolant flush, the water pump began leaking. It was found that the internal water pump was leaking and needed to be replaced along with the primary timing chain and tensioner items. There were no warning lamps or indicators to let us know this was an issue. The dealer service center replaced the internal water pump, refilled system and test drove. It was re inspected and leak has been corrected. However, this cost us $4, 366.80 for an issue Ford knows is a reoccurring issue in this model of SUV and a huge hazard for families.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the vehicle was idling rough while shifted into drive or reverse. The contact stated that the vehicle operated normally while moving. There was no warning light illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced Technical Service Bulletin: 20-2271; as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 111,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and there were exhaust fumes entering the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated that the exhaust odor entered the vehicle while depressing the accelerator pedal and was constant. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the failure was related to Technical Service...
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Bulletin Number: 17-0044; and the recommended that the repair be performed. The contact was advised that the vehicle was no longer under warranty. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 68 MPH, the vehicle shut off unintendedly. After the failure, the engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V925000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was determined there was water in the engine oil. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that there was no recall on the VIN related to the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 164,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while his sister was driving 55-60 MPH, the engine started to overheat, and there was fluid leaking from the vehicle. The contact stated that there was oil in the coolant overflow tank. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that water had entered the vehicle, and the inside of the windshield was freezing. There was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the defrosted was inoperable. Additionally, the TPMS warning light was illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to the local...
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dealer, who blew out the tubes and replaced the water pump. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The contact stated that after a rainstorm, water entered the vehicle from the sunroof. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the sunroof track needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The approximate failure mileage was 77,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine stalls out when accelerating, coolant is leaking into the motor. Got it checked out my mechanic, needs new engine due to improper manufacturing issue
Ford Explorer engine complaints by year
Explorer engine problems, every yearSource: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaints and recalls, checked . Complaints are owners' own reports and are not verified. How we use the data