2016 Ford E-350 Safety Report

2016 Ford E-350 has low complaint volume but multiple recalls for braking and seating issues.

5Complaints
3Recalls
65/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Power Train (2)Structure (1)Seats (1)Service Brakes (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Ford E-350

The 2016 Ford E-350 presents a relatively limited safety data set, with only 5 total NHTSA complaints, and no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths. This low complaint volume makes it challenging to draw broad conclusions about widespread issues. However, the existing complaints point to potential concerns with the POWER TRAIN (2 complaints), STRUCTURE (1 complaint), SEATS (1 complaint), and SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaint). The vehicle has been subject to 3 recalls, two of which address issues with the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROL, potentially leading to increased stopping distances. A third recall pertains to SEATS, specifically modified Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seat back cushions, which could increase injury risk in a crash if the seat back moves. Crash test performance data from NHTSA is not available for the 2016 Ford E-350, with 'N/A' ratings across Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover categories. This lack of official crash test data means that the vehicle's structural integrity and occupant protection in various collision scenarios have not been independently assessed by NHTSA. Therefore, while the complaint data is minimal, the absence of crash test ratings leaves a gap in understanding its passive safety performance. Despite the low complaint count, the recalls highlight specific safety vulnerabilities that Ford and its modifiers have identified and addressed. The two recalls related to the integrated trailer brake control system are significant, as a compromised braking system can directly increase the risk of a crash. The seat recall, while specific to modified vehicles, also points to a potential safety concern for occupants. Overall, the safety picture is characterized by a low volume of reported issues but with critical recall actions addressing braking and seating components.

Reliability Score

The 2016 Ford E-350 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2016 Ford E-350

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Ford E-350:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Integrated Trailer Brake Control Malfunction
Two recalls address issues with the integrated trailer brake control system, potentially leading to extended braking distances and increased crash risk.		 High Common N/A miles
Modified Seat Back Cushion Failure
Recall for Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seat back cushions that may not secure properly, increasing injury risk in a crash.		 High Occasional N/A miles
Parking Brake Cable Chafing
Parking brake cable routed through the left front wheel area, causing contact with the tire and chafing during normal steering/suspension movements.		 Medium Rare N/A miles
Transmission Shifter Cable Chafing
Automatic transmission shifter control cable contacts the parking brake pedal assembly, leading to chafing when applying/releasing the parking brake.		 Medium Rare N/A miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Ford E-350:

Power Train 40% of complaints

Two complaints related to the power train, including a check engine light related to a coast clutch cylinder and one-way clutch replacement campaign, and issues with the automatic transmission shifter control cable.

Electrical System 0% of complaints

Two recalls specifically address issues with the Integrated Trailer Brake Control within the electrical system, which could lead to extended braking distances.

Seats 20% of complaints

One complaint regarding a pin holding the seat pedestal to the seat base falling out, causing the seat to drop. Also, a recall for modified seat back cushions.

Service Brakes 20% of complaints

One complaint about the parking brake cable chafing due to contact with the tire, and two recalls related to the integrated trailer brake control affecting braking performance.

Structure 20% of complaints

One complaint regarding exhaust odor detected inside the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Ford E-350

Is the 2016 Ford E-350 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Ford E-350 has a very low number of complaints (5 total) with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths. However, it has 3 recalls, two of which address critical issues with the integrated trailer brake control and one for modified seat back cushions, indicating specific safety vulnerabilities that have been addressed by the manufacturer. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for this model.

What are common problems?

The most reported issues from the limited complaint data are related to the POWER TRAIN (2 complaints), including a check engine light and transmission cable chafing. There are also individual complaints for STRUCTURE (exhaust odor), SEATS (seat pedestal pin failure), and SERVICE BRAKES (parking brake cable chafing). Additionally, two recalls address the INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROL and one recall addresses modified SEAT back cushions.

Are there any recalls for the 2016 Ford E-350?

Yes, there are 3 recalls for the 2016 Ford E-350. Two recalls are for the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROL, which could lead to increased stopping distances. The third recall is for SEATS, specifically modified Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seat back cushions, which may increase injury risk in a crash.

What is the reliability score for the 2016 Ford E-350?

Given the extremely low number of complaints (5 total) and the absence of NHTSA crash test ratings, assigning a precise reliability score is challenging. However, the presence of 3 recalls for critical components like braking and seating suggests potential areas of concern that have required manufacturer intervention. Without more extensive data, a definitive reliability score is difficult to provide.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but critical recalls for braking and seating, potential buyers should ensure all recall remedies have been performed and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially for modified vehicles.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Ford E-350

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Ford E-350. The data includes 5 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.