Thinking about a 2016-2017 Explorer Limited or Sport… What should I know?

Hi everyone,

My wife and I have been seriously looking at 2016-2017 Ford Explorers, specifically the Limited or Sport trims. We’re about ready to make a purchase, but I’m a bit concerned about some of the reliability ratings I’ve seen—some sources call it below average.

I’d love to hear from anyone who owns or has owned these models. Please share any issues you’ve experienced, big or small. Don’t hold back!

I have a 2016 Sport, and it’s been reliable overall. The long-term maintenance can be pricey if you want to keep it in great shape, though. Here’s a breakdown:

  • I had the brake booster check valve and hose assembly replaced under warranty due to a vacuum leak. Other than that, it’s been regular maintenance since I bought it in July 2016.

  • For the 3.5L V6 (both naturally aspirated and Ecoboost), you’ll want to change the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles. Ignoring it can lead to seals swelling or solenoids failing due to contaminated fluid.

  • If it has intelligent 4WD, change the PTU fluid at the same interval as the transmission fluid. Even in normal mode, power goes to all four wheels at lower speeds.

  • Change the differential fluid by 50,000 miles. The factory oil isn’t great.

  • The water pump is internal and driven by the timing chain. If it fails, coolant can mix with the oil, ruining the engine. Pay attention to any unusual noises—early signs of failure. Plan to replace it around 100,000 miles as a precaution.

  • To replace the accessory drive belt, you’ll need to remove the motor mount, which is annoying.

Despite all this, I love the truck. It’s comfortable and powerful. Just be ready for some serious maintenance if you plan to keep it long-term.

@Grady
I agree with all of this. Even though I don’t own a 2016-2017 Explorer, I know their maintenance schedule is more of a minimum to reduce the cost of ownership. If you stay on top of fluid changes for the transmission and differential, your Explorer will last a long time. Transmission issues have always been a common problem for these vehicles, so regular maintenance is key.

Are you planning to buy new or used?

Luca said:
Are you planning to buy new or used?

We’re looking at new or very lightly used models.

Sawyer said:

Luca said:
Are you planning to buy new or used?

We’re looking at new or very lightly used models.

If you decide to go new, I can get you an X-Plan PIN to help you get a discount.

@Luca
That’s great to know! How much of a discount does X-Plan typically offer?

Sawyer said:
@Luca
That’s great to know! How much of a discount does X-Plan typically offer?

I use A-Plan since I’m an employee, but X-Plan is usually better than anything you could negotiate on your own.

Thanks, I appreciate it! If we decide to go new, I’ll definitely reach out for that PIN.

I didn’t check reliability ratings before buying my 2012 Explorer. I’m the second owner, and it’s at 50,000 miles now. It’s mostly the little things that drive me nuts:

  • The black plastic trim on the driver’s door (where the keypad is) is coming loose at the top. I think it’s held on with 3M tape, but I’m hesitant to pull it off to fix it.

  • The front weatherstripping around the windshield is cracking. Part of it even came off while I was driving on the highway, and I had to pull it off completely.

  • The black plastic piece below the windshield is also falling apart—it’s melting or breaking somehow.

I’ve never had issues like this with any other car.

@Quinn
3M automotive tape is surprisingly strong. I’ve done a lot of repairs on my 2012, and I’d say don’t be afraid to pull a panel off to see what’s wrong. You can use high-quality 3M tape to reattach it.

For anything broken, check the part number on Ford’s parts website (use your VIN to get accurate matches). Then look for used parts from wrecked cars on eBay. It’s way cheaper than going through a dealer, and a lot of things are easy to replace yourself. I’ve done a ton of DIY repairs on mine with zero mechanical experience.

@Amari
Thanks for the advice! I’ll grab some 3M tape today and see if I can fix it.