2016 Ford Explorer Complaint Log

While driving down the interstate, my right exterior a-pillar appliqué trim clip attachment became detached.

60 mph y se calló 60 MPH and it stopped

While traveling at highway speed (55mph), the transfer case "exploded" resulting in catastrophic failure and fluctuating power and impaired driveability. Defect has been confrimed by independent local repair center.

Lost the driver side A pillar in January- now just lost passenger side A pillar driving on I-16

See attached document for complaint

Stereo/ inside lights turn off randomly. Unable to know if others can see if blinkers are on or not. Has not been checked due to high out of pocket cost through dealership. No warning lights ever come on from the times the issues have occurred.

I am writing to formally request your assistance regarding an unresolved recall part issue affecting my 2016 Ford Explorer (VIN# [XXX] ). On [XXX], while driving on [XXX] , the exterior A pillar trim on the front windshield unexpectedly detached, creating a significant safety hazard for myself and other motorists. Following this incident, I scheduled an assessment at Frontier Ford in Santa Clara, CA on 4/9/2024. During the visit, I was advised to contact Ford’s complaint line, after which I returned to the dealership. The required replacement part was ordered, but I have now been waiting for over two years, as it remains on back order. Despite several follow-up calls, visits, the issue remains unresolved. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The at the engine is built the coolest is leaking into it. This causes the engine to seize while driving and is very dangerous. If you catch it early it’s an expensive fix if you catch it late it’s a new engine you’ll need/ there is no warning signs for it.

See attached document for complaint

I was driving and stopped in the left turn lane and the car wouldn't move. Had to have the vehicle towed and now I have to replace the transmission on a car that has 72,000 miles on it. There was no advance notice that there was a problem. I have the vehicle serviced regularly.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, and making a turn, the steering wheel seized, and the contact struggled to regain control of the steering wheel. In addition, the contact noticed a grinding sound while making a turn. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed rack and pinion. The contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was advised to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000.

There is a lot fuel- fumes/odor entering the cab of the vehicle when exceling the speed.

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 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.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the A-pillar detached from the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

While traveling home from out of town this past Easter weekend, a large piece of something flew up, whipped in front of the passenger side windshield and then smacked the passenger side window before completely detaching in the road behind me. I pulled over to see what happened and saw the trim was missing from the entire side of the windshield. Only a piece of rubber was left dangling. I pulled it off so it would also not go flying. It was scary as my kids were in the car. I am thankful no one was hurt or injured.

Iba conduciendo por la avenida y de pronto salió volando el trim del lado del conductor que va cooocado al lado del parabrisas, por suerte no venía carros tan pegados a mi y no ocasionó ningún daño,

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the driver’s side exterior trim detached from the vehicle. The passenger's side trim was loose and rattling. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who took photos. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed about the repairs and reimbursement. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure). The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

As I was driving down the highway my steering got stuck in a turning position and I had to pull really hard for it to go straight almost crashing

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle a rattling noise was present coming from the top of the vehicle. Upon inspection it was discovered that the passenger’s side roof rack assembly had become unsecured. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V316000 (Structure). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced that same failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 140,000.

This is the problem I'm experiencing, my steering wheel would tighten up when I'm backing up from being part. Then when it comes to me, pulling out and about to drive and I have to make a turn the stand well will tighten up again and make it difficult for me to drive or or to turn go other way. When I took my vehicle in to suburban Ford service Ferndale. I'm looking at the questions for additional details. I wasn't in no accident because of my. There's no fire, no injuries, but it can happen and I don't have to have the mileage at how fast I was going because the stand will would get tight when i'm about this pull off.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V537000 (Suspension). The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds and making a left or right turn, the wheels continued to turn. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the contact was informed that the electric steering rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 10 MPH, there was a burnt hydraulic fluid odor inside the vehicle when the vehicle shuddered and stalled. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed, and the engine mount was replaced. The failure recurred; however, there was a rotten, sulfur like odor coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.

On 3/19/24, my left side exterior A-pillar trim part flew off my car on the highway. I have had a constant wind noise in my windshield for a very long time. I didn't think this was going to happen. Thank God there was no cars directly behind me because it came off and was hanging and then blew off before I actually knew what was going on and could pull over. I called the Dealer regarding repair and was informed that there is no fix but they could replace with the part that they have existing in stock which would cost me $366 for the part. Since this is a recall I was asking if I will be reimbursed and the Dealer told me I would need to call Ford. I did and they told me I would need to wait for a parts letter to be sent to me. I explained that I do not want to drive my car around with this piece missing. But they were unable to provide me guidance for reimbursement. I am wondering if you have any information or guidance re: reimbursement for the current parts fix until Ford provides a permanent solution to this recall?

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering assist fault and traction control warning lights illuminated. In addition, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed rack and pinion. The contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that there was an unknown recall for a similar failure; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000.

The transmission began slipping causing poor control at higher speeds using the cruise control or passing gear. Only about 42,000 miles on the vehicle and no financial help from Ford. Service for a new transmission was $7667.11at Dave Sinclair Ford, 7466 South Lindbergh, St. Louis Missouri, 63125. 314-892-2600

I have an open recall. I received the letter in Feb of this year. It is now Dec... Everytime I call the dealership, I get put on hold with no resolution. The recall states that parts will be available late 2024. I would say it's late 2024... when will this issue get rectified? The part has been off since March. I have noticed some leaking condensation/water recently on the inside of the front windshield. Thank you for your help in this matter. Respectfully, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] 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 received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the driver's side A-pillar detached from the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted and inserted the A-pillar trim back into place. The contact stated that on a separate occasion while driving 55 MPH, the passenger's side A-pillar trim detached from the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was repaired with the trim being taped down. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

A loud clunking noise was heard when the vehicle was turned to the right. Diagnosis at the CarMax repair facility indicated that the steering rack was broken. Diagnosis was complicated by the fact that the damaged part was hidden under a rubber boot. The actual damage on the steering rack appears to be a broken retainer, sealing washer, or similar that circles the jack screw of the steering rack. This retainer or washer is visible in the attached pictures. I believe there was a potential for the damaged retainer or washer to become jammed in the steering rack when the rack is in the right turn position which would make it impossible or difficult to turn the steering wheel. This could have resulted in an accident. I authorized CarMax to complete the repair and was informed that the steering rack was back ordered from Ford and would not be available for approximately 3 weeks. CarMax gave me a loaner vehicle and completed the repair when the part arrived. The broken steering rack was returned to Ford. A steering rack is not a part that I expect to fail. The fact that the part was back ordered for three weeks suggests that this part is in high demand because this is a common problem with this vehicle. The fact that the damaged part was concealed by a rubber boot made it difficult to diagnose. Clunking noises in the front suspension of a vehicle can be caused by many problems and a failure to correctly diagnose this problem could have resulted in a serious accident. I thanked the CarMax technicians for there perseverance in getting to the true cause of the noise. It is my opinion that this is a serious safety issue and that Ford should issue a safety recall for affected vehicles.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, there was a flapping sound coming from the vehicle. The contact pulled over to the side of the road. The contact observed that the rubber seal around the windshield was detaching. The local dealer was contacted. 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 not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact was notified of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure) and 25V347000 (Structure); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that upon inspection of the A-pillar trims on the driver’s and passenger’s sides, the trim pieces were a bit loose. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

There has been many reports of electronic steering issue where it would just swerve you off the road and loose full control while driving for years 2013-2015 cars but 2016 years are also being effected. A dealership confirmed it was an electronic steering rack causing the issue. No warning lamps had went off either

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the steering wheel became very firm. The contact stated that the "Steering Assist Failure" message was displayed, and the Traction Control Warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 108,000.

Component Failed - The A-Pillar Trim part detached from driver side and the passenger side if coming off. Safety Risk - Hazard on road Component inspection - No Warnings - No I have been waiting since February 2024 for a repair solution and missing pillar is unsightly

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front driver's side windshield trim detached and flew off the vehicle. The contact stated the noise from the air was extremely loud. In addition, the contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed that the front driver's and front passenger's doors B-Pillar trims had detached and flew off. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure) and 25V347000 (Structure); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE) and 25V347000 (STRUCTURE); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that while driving 50 MPH, the passenger’s side A-pillar detached from the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's side A-pillar trim detached from the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the passenger’s side A-pillar trim was loose. Most recently, the contact stated that B-pillar trim on the passenger’s side was loose. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired for the most recent failure. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that rainwater had leaked into the driver's side B-pillar trim panel causing electrical failures to occur which included the battery failure and the keyless entry failure. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 125,000.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the passenger’s side exterior A-pillar trim dislodged from the vehicle and struck another vehicle. The contact stated that the driver's side A-pillar trim was also unsecured and loosened. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet notified. The approximate failure mileage was 91,000.

The contacted owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, there was an abnormal grinding sound detected. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the failure was due to the rack and pinion. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.

Steering wheel stated making weird noise when turning. Got harder to steer and started jerking while driving. The explorer jerked from side to side and almost caused me multiple wrecks. I took it to the shop and it was my steering rack and pinion that needed replacing and may also have to be reprogrammed, which is an extra $600.00. I have had several cars and never had an issue like this! Not to mention it was almost $3000.00 fix. There were no warning lights for this and this is very dangerous especially since it happens so fast and could be deadly on the interstate! This needs to be recalled, there are many owners I read have had this problem. It is unacceptable and deadly! Not safe!

Our 2016 Ford Explorer suddenly the steering started making a loud grinding noise while rotating the steering wheel. The noise is anytime you move the steering wheel left or right parked or moving. The steering wheel locks up without warning while driving making it momentarily impossible to move and dangerous while driving. The explorer was diagnosed as a faulty steering rack and pinion assembly with is electronic assisted. No warning lights are illuminated on the dash.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the passenger's side A-pillar trim detached from the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repair. 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; however, it was confirmed parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving in the rain, water leaked inside the vehicle from the dome light. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the moonroof failed to function as intended and was no longer able to be opened. The contact stated that there was mold on the front driver's side and front passenger's side seats, as well as inside the cupholders. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, no cause for the failure was found. The vehicle was not repaired. However, the contact was informed that the moonroof assembly needed to be repaired. The contact had a friend inspect the vehicle and found a burnt wire underneath the steering wheel unit. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 153,000.

The roof rack on the left side of the vehicle became unattached in transit, and flew off into traffic.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the outer structure of the A-Pilar trim detached from the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 82,500. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

See attached document for complaint.

The roof rail on my vehicle became unattached on the interstate becoming hazardous to other vehicles. Worst part is Ford has a recall for roof racks for the year make and model of my vehicle BUT the recall does not include my vehicle as it is not listed under my VIN number. Only because it has not been reported enough to reach the threshold to trigger an investigation and remedy. Ford is not complying with the guidelines that the NHTSA puts forth as even when you are included in the recall the parts /repairs are unavailable. Unacceptable!

The pillars flew off and I can not get them repaired and they have no remedy for it the dealership glued them back

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the trim detached and flew off the vehicle. The rear driver's side door applique trim was impacted by the detached trim. The rear driver's side door applique trim was damaged. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 205,040.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. 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 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 contact stated while driving on the highway at 75 MPH, the front passenger’s side A-pillar trim clip detached and separated from the vehicle. The contact was unable to recover the trim clip. The vehicle was taken to a dealer; however, the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE) and 25V347000 (STRUCTURE); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was not contacted. 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 contact had not experienced a failure.