2016 Ford Explorer electrical system problems

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

1. Filed Oct 5, 2026INElectrical SystemEngineTransmission & Drivetrain

   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…

   NHTSA complaint #11769014 · source
2. Filed Sep 29, 2026NCBody & StructureElectrical SystemSteering

   1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The exterior B-pillar trim on the side of the vehicle became detached while the vehicle was being driven. After the trim became loose and was temporarily secured by a Ford dealership, the vehicle's security system malfunctioned, the tailgate would not open, and the vehicle would not shut off normally. The trim piece is currently taped in place. 2. How was your safety or the…

   NHTSA complaint #11767630 · source
3. Filed Jun 19, 2026LAElectrical System

   I have a 2016 ford explorer limited and it has 2 separate recalls on it one being the exterior a pillar applique trim clip attachments are not properly engaged due to improper assembly which borders the right and left side of the windshield, may be loose missing or become detached. also, the driver and front passenger door b-pillar trim appliques may become partially or fully detached. which I can hear wind noise and a rattling noise with also water pouring inside my truck…

   NHTSA complaint #11745291 · source
4. Filed Jun 6, 2026ILElectrical System

   I was driving on the highway and the driver side trim piece on the window flew off onto ongoing traffic. This is the second piece that flew off. The passenger side also flew off but was fixed. But now since this piece flew off I can’t even open my trunk. I did some research and it does say that the piece that flew off is connected to the trunk and a wire might have snapped when the piece flew off and now won’t allow the trunk to open. I took it to ford and they told me they…

   NHTSA complaint #11742477 · source
5. Filed May 20, 2026184,847 miNYElectrical System

   Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 FORD Explorer. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 93,000 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 184,847.

   NHTSA complaint #11739134 · source
6. Filed Apr 2, 2026DCElectrical SystemLightingOther / Unknown

   Vehicle equipped with red and blue emergency lights, excessive auxiliary lights prohibited by law, facilitates color of law violations, poses a risk to general public regarding harassment, impersonation of police officer, seller has actual knowledge, strictly liable upon a purchase agreement with buyer, and can be liable for crimes committed by others as a coconspirator.

   NHTSA complaint #11728832 · source
7. Filed Apr 2, 2026DCElectrical SystemLightingAcceleration & Cruise Control

   Vehicle equipped with operational red and blue emergency lights prohibited by law, facilitates criminal activity such as impersonation of a police officer, civil regulatory laws regarding excess auxiliary lights, etc. Seller has actual knowledge and can be liable under color of law upon a purchase agreement with a buyer. Vehicle has open recalls and unresolved mechanical/electrical maintenance.

   NHTSA complaint #11728822 · source
8. Filed Mar 24, 2026NJFireDriver Assistance & Safety TechElectrical System

   Driving down the NJ Turnpike the dashboard started displaying lane assist no longer available along with a check engine light. Once stopped the front of the car had been burned with parts of the bumper melted. No visible fire at that time. Had the vehicle towed to Holman Ford. They assessed the damage to the Explorer and it was determined that the front facing camera had shorted causing an electrical fire that damaged the camera and front bumper writing harness along with…

   NHTSA complaint #11726751 · source
9. Filed Dec 27, 2025TXElectrical System

   The display screen keeps rebooting and not available. Its a safety issue as the backup camera is not available for sometimes up to 10 minutes

   NHTSA complaint #11707233 · source
10. Filed Sep 10, 2025ILElectrical System

    Intermittently, the vehicle's backup camera displays a blank (black) image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. The issue resolves its self by turning the vehicle off and back on.

    NHTSA complaint #11686458 · source
11. Filed Sep 5, 2025153,000 miOHElectrical SystemVisibility & Wipers

    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…

    NHTSA complaint #11685256 · source
12. Filed Jul 10, 2025161,000 miSCElectrical System

    Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 150,831 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was previously documented as 161,000.

    NHTSA complaint #11672408 · source

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology