2016 Ford Explorer used buying checklist
What to check on a used 2016 Ford Explorer before you pay, based on what owners report, its recalls and the repairs the maker covers. Print it and take it to the test drive.
Test for the problems owners report most
The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.
- Gas smell in the cabin163 owner complaints, usually around 16,000 miles
Watch for fuel smells, hard starting and the check engine light, and make sure the fuel gauge works.
- Loss of power steering132 owner complaints, usually around 59,730 miles, owners paid about $2,350
Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked and on the road: it should be smooth, with no clunks, stiffness or warning lights.
- Check engine light115 owner complaints, usually around 42,000 miles, owners paid about $4,000
Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.
Make sure these recalls were done
Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.
- StructureRecall number 26V448000, Jul 14, 2026
- EquipmentRecall number 25V685000, Oct 10, 2025
- StructureRecall number 25V347000, May 23, 2025
- StructureRecall number 24V031000, Jan 19, 2024
- SuspensionRecall number 21V537000, Jul 15, 2021
- StructureRecall number 21V316000, May 5, 2021
- SuspensionRecall number 20V675000, Mar 12, 2021
- Power trainRecall number 20V692000, Nov 10, 2020
- SuspensionRecall number 19V435000, Jun 10, 2019
- SeatsRecall number 17V767000, Nov 29, 2017
- SeatsRecall number 16V475000, Jun 28, 2016
- Engine and engine coolingRecall number 16V183000, Mar 31, 2016
- Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 15V605000, Sep 28, 2015
- Parking brakeRecall number 15V464000, Jul 24, 2015
Service bulletins worth asking about
Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.
Before you pay
- Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
- Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
- Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
- Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
- Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.
See every 2016 Ford Explorer problem
VIN decoder
See the problems and recalls for an exact car
Buying a used 2016 Ford Explorer?
Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.
Check its history