2016 Ford Explorer Technical Service Bulletins

199 technical service bulletins (TSBs) are on record for the 2016 Ford Explorer. TSBs are notes manufacturers send to dealers about repair procedures for issues seen in the field. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault.

• 10153923Jan 9, 2019Seats. Some 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles may exhibit a heated lower front seat cushion that does not operate properly after turning the ignition on after a remote start event. To temporarily resolve the concern, the heated seat control switch may be cycled off and then back on. Do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating. To assist with the investigation, use the Report a Vehicle Concern link at…
• 10153948Dec 14, 2018Electrical system. Some 2016-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 and a 6, 8 or 10 inch screen may show a pop-up message every key cycle that states 'SYNC can check for updates when connected to a WiFi network'. To remove the inconvenience of the pop-up the customer can either connect to a trusted WiFi network to complete the setup process or turn off WiFi in the WiFi settings located under the Settings menu. Adjusting…
• 10153933Dec 12, 2018Electrical system. Some 2016-2017 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine built on or before 30-Sep-2016 may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0325, P0327, P0330 and/or P0332. This may be caused by a wire chafe condition near the knock sensor connector C109. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
• 10153931Dec 4, 2018Seats, Equipment. Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2019 Escape/Fusion/MKZ, 2015-2018 Focus, 2015-2019 Edge/F150/MKC/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017 Super Duty, 2018-2019 EcoSport/Expedition, and 2019 Nautilus vehicles may experience seat pan looseness, lateral movement, or clunk/thump noise on turns. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
• 10152473Nov 14, 2018Engine cooling. For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing and/or replacing turbo related concerns, all steps within the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure must be followed including replacement of all mandatory discarded parts. For all turbocharged engine applications, the turbocharger oil supply filter (6C683 gas engine/6L625 connector style or 6A968 diesel engine) must be replaced whenever the…
• 10152466Nov 1, 2018Steering. 2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a LKS system with customer complaints of steering wheel vibration, steering pull or vehicle drift may be due to an alert and/or steering aid input from the LKS. The LKS system detects unintentional drifting toward the outside of the lane and alerts and/or aids vehicle to stay in the lane. Be sure the customer understands how the lane departure warning feature settings work for Alert…
• 10152465Nov 1, 2018Seats, Latches, locks and linkages. Some 2016-2019 Explorers equipped with the power folding 3rd row seat may experience a seat that will not latch/unlatch from folded or normal positions. This may be due to misalignment between the seat latch and the anchor bracket or misalignment between the load floor support and the load floor panel. If the seats attempt to move and stop, attempt to neutralize the anchor brackets and load floor support brackets…
• 10152464Nov 1, 2018Electrical system. When connecting the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) to the DLC located on the driver side under the steering column at the GWM, make sure that the ignition is off before connecting the VCM. If the ignition is on or the engine is running during the connection, it can result in various warning lights being illuminated with diagnostic…
• 10148722Oct 5, 2018Equipment, Electrical system. Some 2016-2018 Explorer vehicles built on or before 07-Aug-2018 may automatically switch from A/C to heat and defrost after 1 minute during a remote start event when the customer expects the A/C to remain on. To resolve the concern, reprogram the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) control module using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool.
• 10149778Sep 27, 2018Transmission and drivetrain. Some 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Sedan and Utility vehicles may exhibit a reduced top speed after a transmission fluid service with unapproved fluid. The use of unapproved fluid or improper transmission fluid level can lead to reduced vehicle performance and transmission damage that is not covered under warranty. Use only Mercon LV Automatic Transmission Fluid, XT-10-QLVC (US), CXT-10-LV12 (Canada). Use only the…
• 10149770Sep 21, 2018Electrical system. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit the Android Auto Preference menu selection is not present after an update to version 3.0 software. In prior versions of SYNC 3 software this menu was present, however in version 3.0 software the Android Auto Preference menu will only show up once an Android Phone has been initially connected to SYNC.
• 10149766Sep 19, 2018Equipment. Some 2016-2019 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may have an illuminated MIL with ambient air temperature (AAT) sensor DTC P0073. During the installation of certain police accessories by non-Ford vehicle upfitters, wiring connector C134 may have been left disconnected following the removal and installation of the front bumper cover. If this issue is noted, first check C134 before beginning other diagnostic steps.
• 10144950Aug 31, 2018Transmission and drivetrain, Electrical system. Some 2015-2017 Explorer and Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines may exhibit a surge or hesitation condition at approximately 50-60 MPH in 6th gear under light to moderate loads. If there are no DTCs stored in the powertrain control module (PCM), do not attempt further repairs. Advise customers this is a normal characteristic of the vehicle and will not affect durability of the…
• 10144947Aug 24, 2018Steering. When connecting the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) to the DLC located on the driver side under the steering column at the GWM, make sure that the ignition is off before connecting the VCM. If the ignition is on or the engine is running during the connection, it can result in various warning lights being illuminated with diagnostic…
• 10144919Aug 23, 2018Engine. Some 2013-2018 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L/1.6L/2.0L EcoBoost, 2013-2018 Fusion vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.7L EcoBoost, 2013-2018 MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.0L EcoBoost, 2017-18 MKZ vehicles equipped with 3.0L EcoBoost, 2015-2018 MKC vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L EcoBoost, 2015-2018 Edge vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.7L EcoBoost, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.0L and 2.7L EcoBoost, 2016-2018…
• 10144909Aug 14, 2018Equipment, Body and structure. Some 2016 Explorer vehicles built on or before 31-Jan-2016 may exhibit a pop or creak noise from the right front mounting bolt of the front subframe. This condition may be due to a mispositioned weld between the barrel nut and the subframe mounting bracket. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
• 10144930Aug 2, 2018Electrical system. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 not at the latest software level may exhibit Various Performance Related concerns such as Display Operation, Navigation, Voice Recognition, Phone Pairing, Applink, Travel Link, Slow System Response, etc. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If an update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update the APIM software.
• 10144206Jul 12, 2018Latches, locks and linkages, Seats, Equipment. Some 2016-2018 Explorers equipped with the power folding 3rd row seat may experience a seat that will not latch/unlatch from folded or normal positions. This may be due to misalignment between the seat latch and the anchor bracket or misalignment between the load floor support and the load floor panel. If the seats attempt to move and stop, attempt to neutralize the anchor brackets and load floor support brackets…
• 10143108Jun 29, 2018Electrical system, Equipment. Some 2016-2018 Explorer vehicles may automatically switch from A/C to heat and defrost after 1 minute during a remote start idle when the customer expects the A/C remain on. The system will return to normal operation after the ignition is turned to the run position. Do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating, monitor OASIS for updates. To assist with the investigation, use the Report A…
• 10143102Jun 22, 2018Equipment, Electrical system. Various 2016-2018 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the vehicle is at version 2.2 please update the module to the latest software level. After the software is updated make sure you shut the vehicle off, open the door for 2 minutes, then…
• 10143091Jun 12, 2018Equipment, Electrical system. RKE stand alone key fobs can be added to 2016 and newer Police Utility vehicles not previously equipped with them. To program the fobs, start an IDS session and enter the Red Toolbox > Module Programming > Programmable Parameters > Police Mode > Remote Keyfob Learn > Enable. Next, refer to the RKE Transmitter Programming procedure listed in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 501-14 > General Procedures to program the…
• 10143090Jun 12, 2018Engine, Equipment. Some 2013-2018 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 3.7L twin independent variable camshaft timing (TiVCT) engine may exhibit an engine vibration and/or the engine mount leaking fluid. A revised engine mount (GB5Z-6038-A) has been released to address this condition. For claiming, use causal part 6038 and applicable labor operations in Section 06 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
• 10137131Apr 11, 2018Equipment, Engine cooling. Some 2007-2016 Edge/MKX/Flex/MKT/MKZ/MKS/Taurus/Police Interceptor Sedan/Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with AWD and built on or before 30-Jun-2016 may exhibit a propane or natural gas odor during idle or low speed driving. This may be due to break down of the power transfer unit (PTU) fluid caused by excessive heat. If the source of the odor is identified as originating from the PTU, an…
• 10137126Apr 4, 2018Electrical system. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 version 2.2 software may exhibit a blank screen after attempting to exit Valet mode. SYNC software updates are now available under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available, refer to WSM Section 415-00 and update APIM software. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
• 10137113Mar 30, 2018Equipment. Replacing the original equipment SYNC/Navigation system with either an aftermarket SYNC/Navigation kit or modifying original SYNC/Navigation parts to provide additional features is not recommended nor supported on any Ford, Mercury or Lincoln vehicle. Only approved Genuine Ford accessories or originally installed systems are supported and certified to function correctly with other vehicle systems.
• 10137109Mar 29, 2018Tires. Some 2015-2018 Explorer vehicles equipped with Hankook brand tires may exhibit tread wear that is not the result of vehicle alignment concerns. For customer satisfaction, Hankook is offering pro-rated tire replacement for vehicles with less than 36,000 Miles. This program is managed by Hankook Tire America Corp. and not claimed under Ford new vehicle limited warranty.
• 10137072Mar 20, 2018Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors). Some 2016-2017 Explorer vehicles may exhibit front window glass that jumps/chatters during up/down movement. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
• 10137100Mar 19, 2018Electrical system. Various 2016-2017 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the vehicle is at version 2.2 please update the module to the latest software level. After the software is updated make sure you shut the vehicle off, open the door for 2 minutes, then…
• 10137098Mar 15, 2018Electrical system. Some 2016-2018 Explorer vehicles equipped with automatic temperature control and premium AM/FM/CD may exhibit a broken or missing temperature control switch. The driver and passenger switches are now available separately from the control head. Replacement of the control head assembly is not necessary. The switches are driver and passenger specific and must be installed in the correct location with the red heat…
• 10137089Mar 13, 2018Exterior lighting. 2016-2018 Explorer signature lighting is standard equipment on XLT and higher level vehicles. Base model vehicles are not equipped with signature lighting and it is not an option. Base level vehicles without the LED lighting surrounding the headlamps are built correctly and should not be modified by installing the signature lamps. Prior to beginning any diagnostics, verify the proper vehicle model/series utilizing…
• 10136597Feb 14, 2018Equipment. 2010-2018 various vehicles equipped with SYNC or SYNC 3 may not function when attempting to find or use the Spotify app via AppLink. As of an update released on 1/15/2018 Spotify will no longer be supporting their AppLink integration. No repair attempts should be attempted to correct this concern.
• 10136592Feb 9, 2018Electrical system. When connecting the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) to the DLC located on the driver side under the steering column at the GWM, make sure that the ignition is off before connecting the VCM. If the ignition is on or the engine is running during the connection, it can result in various warning lights being illuminated with diagnostic…
• 10136586Feb 5, 2018Exterior lighting. Some 2016-2018 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit flickering front amber marker lamps (inboard amber lights under the headlamps) when the engine is running. Before attempting repairs, verify the frequency type using the Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or equivalent. The frequency type in police mode programmable parameters must be set to type 2. The engine must be running for the configuration to…
• 10140332Jan 29, 2018Electrical system, Equipment. Various 2016-2017 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the vehicle is at version 2.2 please update the module to the latest software level. After the software is updated make sure you shut the vehicle off, open the door for 2 minutes, then…
• 10138533Jan 29, 2018Equipment. Various 2016-2017 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the vehicle is at version 2.2 please update the module to the latest software level. After the software is updated make sure you shut the vehicle off, open the door for 2 minutes, then…
• 10140323Jan 10, 2018Equipment. The Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can only be used with vehicles that are factory built with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE). The master code for the Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can be retrieved from FMCDealer - Parts and Service - Parts Product Line Information - Keys/Entry Devices - Aftermarket Keyless Entry Keypad Code Access.
• 10138524Jan 10, 2018Equipment. The Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can only be used with vehicles that are factory built with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE). The master code for the Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can be retrieved from FMCDealer - Parts and Service - Parts Product Line Information - Keys/Entry Devices - Aftermarket Keyless Entry Keypad Code Access.
• 10140315Jan 8, 2018Transmission and drivetrain, Engine. Some 2013-2018 Escape/Fusion/MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.5L or 1.5L/2.0L/3.0L Ecoboost engine, 2015-2018 MKC/Edge/Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L/2.7L EcoBoost engine, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.7L Ecoboost engine, 2017-2018 Continental vehicles equipped with 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost, and AWD may exhibit a fluid leak from the PTU intermediate shaft seal.
• 10138516Jan 8, 2018Engine cooling. Some 2013-2018 Escape/Fusion/MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.5L or 1.5L/2.0L/3.0L Ecoboost engine, 2015-2018 MKC/Edge/Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L/2.7L EcoBoost engine, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.7L Ecoboost engine, 2017-2018 Continental vehicles equipped with 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost, and AWD may exhibit a fluid leak from the PTU intermediate shaft seal.
• 10127397Nov 9, 2017Seats. Some 2016-2017 Explorer vehicles equipped with a manual front passenger seat may exhibit a stuck condition in the full forward position. This may be caused by the seat being moved firmly from the rearward position to the forward position causing the seat track travel restrictor to bend allowing the adjuster bar to become trapped under the travel restrictor. Follow the Service Procedure to correct the condition.
• 10127396Nov 9, 2017Body and structure, Equipment. Some 2013-2016 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit delamination of the top edge of the front door trim panels. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
• 10127409Nov 8, 2017Tires, Wheels. Some 2015-2018 Explorer vehicles equipped with Hankook brand tires may exhibit chipping, cutting and/or unusual or even accelerated tread wear. If the tire side wall is marked as: 255/50R20 105H Ventus S1 Noble 2 contact Hankook Technical Service for possible pro-rated tire replacement. This may not be the result of improper alignment. For Hankook contact information refer to the Tire Warranty information located…
• 10127405Nov 2, 2017Electrical system, Transmission and drivetrain. Some vehicles may exhibit a no start condition with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and a DTC P161A after PCM replacement. This may be due to the parameter reset procedure not being properly completed. To clear this DTC, use the Ford Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) service tool or Ford J2534 Diagnostic Software, select - Toolbox - Body - Security - PATS Functions - Parameter Reset. Follow the…
• 10125095Oct 26, 2017Engine cooling. Certain 2011-2017 Model Year Explorer Vehicles - Carbon Monoxide Concerns
• 10125093Oct 12, 2017Engine cooling. Certain 2011-2017 Model Year Explorer Retail Vehicles - Carbon Monoxide Complaints
• 10125077Oct 6, 2017Electrical system. Some 2016-2017 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit flickering front amber marker lamps (inboard amber lights under the headlamps) when the engine is running. Before attempting repairs, verify the frequency type using the Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or equivalent. The frequency type in police mode programmable parameters must be set to type 2. The engine must be running for the configuration to…
• 10115954Jul 18, 2017Equipment. 2016-2017 Explorer roof rack cap clips are now available as a separate part. It is no longer necessary to order a complete roof rack rail to obtain the cap retainer clips. To correct loose roof rack caps or broken or missing clips, order part # FB5Z-7851050-A. The package contains 7 clips.
• 10115945Jul 12, 2017Engine. Some 2015-2017 Explorer and 2015-2016 F-150 vehicles, equipped with 3.5L Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection (GTDI) engines may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P2195, P2197, P2626, and/or P2629 stored in powertrain control module (PCM) memory. Follow the Service Procedure Steps to correct the condition.
• 10109004Apr 26, 2017Equipment, Electrical system. Some 2016 Edge/Explorer/F-150/Mustang built on or before 01-Nov-2016 and equipped with a 4.2-inch FCDIM may exhibit a blank screen. To correct the concern, Reprogram the FCDIM to the latest level using IDS release 104.02 or higher. Make sure you are connected to the internet when entering module programming to obtain the latest updates. For claiming, use causal part 10D885 and applicable labor operations in section…
• 10109012Apr 12, 2017Equipment, Engine cooling. 2013-2017 Edge/MKX/Flex/MKT/MKZ/MKS/Taurus/Taurus Police/Explorer/Explorer Police/Continental vehicles equipped with a 3.5L or 3.7L engine, all wheel drive (AWD) and a power transfer unit (PTU) that is being repaired or replaced for an internal failure must also have the vent hose replaced due to contamination in the hose.

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