2016 Ford Explorer: Transmission failure
Common wear/failure (not a recall)
Symptoms
Owners of the 2016 Explorer report: transmission failure. CarComplaints.com lists 22 owner complaints, average mileage 48,700 miles.
NHTSA has 215 owner complaints for the 2016 Explorer in this area. Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11769014 (filed 10/05/2026): “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 dea…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11753015 (filed 07/27/2026): “The contact called on behalf of his wife, who owns a 2016 ford explorer. the contact stated that while reversing at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle independently accelerated. the check engine warning light was illuminated. the contact researched online and w…”
Likely causes
Sources do not establish a single root cause; diagnosis is needed. Owner-reported fixes are listed below.
Fix, in plain English
Most common owner-reported solutions on CarComplaints.com: rebuild transmission (4 reports) replace transmission (3 reports) replace power transfer unit (1 reports) replaced turbo shaft (1 reports). Check for open recalls and extended warranty coverage with a dealer before paying out of pocket.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Diagnosis needs a scan tool; repair or replacement needs a lift, transmission jack and the manufacturer's fluid fill/relearn procedure. (Our assessment.)
Cost
CarComplaints.com owners report a typical repair cost of about $4,870 (owner-reported average, not a quote).
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
AutoZone · O'Reilly · Advance · RockAuto