2016 Ford Expedition El Safety Report

2016 Ford Expedition EL Safety Report

181Complaints
0Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
85/100Reliability Score
7Crash Reports
7Fire Reports
5Injuries
Most reported components: Service Brakes (28)Power Train (21)Engine (15)Service Brakes, Hydraulic (12)Electrical System (9)Unknown Or Other (9)Vehicle Speed Control (8)Fuel/Propulsion System (6)Electrical System,Visibility (6)Steering (5)

Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2016 Ford Expedition El

This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2016 Ford Expedition El. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.

2016 Ford Expedition El Safety Signal Summary
SignalValueWhat to inspect next
Recall burdenLow (0)Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below.
Owner complaintsHigh (181)Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates.
Crash and fire reports14Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item.
Primary component hubService BrakesCompare service brakes issues across vehicles.
Cleaner nearby model year2015Compare against the 2015 Ford Expedition El with 143 complaints and 0 recalls.
Riskier nearby model year2019Check the 2019 Ford Expedition El before buying across this generation.

Ford Expedition El Year-by-Year Comparison

The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Ford Expedition El years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.

Nearby Ford Expedition El Model Years
Model YearComplaintsRecallsUse case
2017 Ford Expedition El 272 0 Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year.
2015 Ford Expedition El 143 0 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2018 Ford Expedition El 307 0 Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year.
2019 Ford Expedition El 416 0 Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year.
2021 Ford Expedition El 181 0 Use as a comparable safety baseline.

2016 Ford Expedition El Complaint Theme Map

Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2016 Ford Expedition El, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.

Service Brakes

28 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Service Brakes issues Ford only

Power Train

21 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Power Train issues Ford only

Engine

15 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Engine issues Ford only

Service Brakes, Hydraulic

12 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Service Brakes, Hydraulic issues Ford only

Electrical System

9 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Electrical System issues Ford only

Unknown Or Other

9 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Unknown Or Other issues Ford only

AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Ford Expedition El

The 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL has accumulated 181 complaints and 0 recalls in the NHTSA database. It received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Among the complaints, 7 involved crashes and 7 involved fires. There have been 5 reported injuries and 0 reported deaths. The most frequently reported problem areas are service brakes (28 complaints), power train (21 complaints), engine (15 complaints). Service brakes and hydraulic issues have been reported, with the vehicle stopping unexpectedly. The electrical system has also shown problems, such as the front AC stopping and the blower fan malfunctioning. Engine knocking and abnormal rattling sounds on cold starts have been noted. The vehicle has also experienced power loss and a limp mode at various speeds, indicating potential engine or transmission issues. Key known issues to be aware of include Service Brakes, Electrical System, Engine Knocking. Consider the reliability score and known issues before purchasing. Ensure the vehicle has been serviced regularly and check for any ongoing problems.

Reliability Score

The 2016 Ford Expedition El receives a reliability score of 85 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.

NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2016 Ford Expedition El

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.

Overall
★★★★★
5/5
Frontal Crash
★★★★★
5/5
Side Crash
★★★★★
5/5
Rollover
★★★★☆
4/5

Known Issues for the 2016 Ford Expedition El

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Ford Expedition El:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Service Brakes
Multiple reports of service brakes failing to engage properly, leading to unexpected stops.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Electrical System
Issues with the front AC and blower fan, causing discomfort and potential safety concerns.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Engine Knocking
Engine knocking has been reported, though no warning lights were present, indicating a potential internal issue.
Low Occasional 30k-60k miles
Transmission Issues
Reports of power loss and entering limp mode, suggesting transmission or engine problems.
Medium Common 30k-60k 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 Expedition El:

Service Brakes 28% of complaints

Issues with the service brakes have been the most common problem reported.

Electrical System 9% of complaints

Problems with the electrical system, such as the AC and blower fan, have been reported.

Engine 15% of complaints

Engine-related issues, including knocking and rattling, have been noted.

Transmission 6% of complaints

Transmission issues, such as power loss and entering limp mode, have been reported.

NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2016 Ford Expedition El

Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2016 Ford Expedition El with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes. 1 involved fires.

Crash Reports: 1 Fire Reports: 1
Power Train,Engine
07/21/2025

The vehicle stops accelerating randomly it’s been in the shop (Ford dealer) a few times and they are unable to pinpoint the issue. The warning lamps would come on after the vehicle fails to accelerate. It would lose power at any interval and coast until it’s fully stopped.

ODI #11674952
Electrical System
06/21/2025

The front AC stopped blowing and it got excessively warm in the cab. I thought it may be the blower motor and wanted to start with fuses. Under the hood was so hot that when I tried to pull our a fuse my nails melted. Since then, sometimes it blows sometimes it doesn't but it does seem to be emanating excess heat. I'm unsure of true date of occurrence as I just purchased the vehicle on

ODI #11668270
Trailer Hitches
04/09/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH and hauling a trailer attached to the tow hitch, the trailer suddenly detached from the vehicle. The trailer hitch had fractured due to extensive rust. The dealer was contacted and informed about the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and...

ODI #11653600
Power Train
04/04/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving 2 MPH, the accelerator was depressed, and there was a grinding sound coming from the rear-end of the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed with rear differential failure. On a separate occasion, a year later the rear differential failure recured. The ...

ODI #11652797
Engine
03/26/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the engine made a knocking sound. No warning light was illuminated. The contact related the failure to the cam phasers; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHT...

ODI #11650809
Engine
03/25/2025

I experienced the same problem you are investigating in F-150’s: I was traveling on the highway at 75 miles per hour on cruise control - there was a really loud thunk and the Expedition unexpectedly downshifted to a lower gear, I hadn’t touched anything and there was no warning. It was really scary and has made me doubt the safety of this Expedition.

ODI #11650371
Back Over Prevention
03/21/2025

When backing up the camera goes out and I cannot see what is behind me. This keeps happening intermittently.

ODI #11649708
Engine
03/11/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that the failure occurred while driving in the mountains and the vehicle was stuck in the middle of the road. The contact stated that after several attempts, t...

ODI #11647586
Fuel/Propulsion System
12/18/2024

while driving on the highway my vehicle shut down and service lamp came on and while drifting tried to put transmission in neutral and restart but had to come to complete stop to restart engine in park. I was in third lane and had no warning before shut down and could not get to the shoulder. (almost got hit trying). I reported to the dealer and they said there was no fault codes stored. I was dri...

ODI #11631393
Engine
11/19/2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that the vehicle was making an abnormal rattling sound on cold starts. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving from a complete stop and while coming to a stop. The contact also stated that the vehicle was experiencing rough idling. Additionally, the contact stated while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle inadv...

ODI #11626187
Fuel System, Gasoline
10/31/2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over and restarted the vehicle, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the throttle body needed to be replaced. The contact replaced the thro...

ODI #11622946
Steering
10/28/2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that on several occasions, while in reverse(R), the contact observed a warning chime and a "Steering Assist Fault" message was displayed, and the steering wheel became firm. The contact stated that on other occasions while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became stiff. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed ...

ODI #11622242
Power Train
08/20/2024

While driving on [XXX] at approximately 35 mph the vehicle displayed a wrench warning lamp and at same time vehicle went into limp mode. No power I had to coast to the side of road, engine running but no power. Turned engine off restarted vehicle and drove short distance home. Holiday Ford in Gordon, Texas was contacted they advised bring vehicle in for diagnostic test. Vehicle was driven to Holi...

ODI #11609765
Back Over Prevention
08/09/2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that the back-over prevention camera was inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 53,...

ODI #11607465
Electrical System,Visibility
07/08/2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the blower fan stopped functioning. The contact stated that failure was intermittent at first but became a recurring failure while driving at various speeds. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaire...

ODI #11600208
Steering
06/29/2024

Steering wheel is loose and wobbly as if it will fall off. I noticed that Ford issued a recall in March 2018 for this problem (see below) however it does not include my 2016 Ford Expedition that is having the exact same issue. DEARBORN, Mich., March 14, 2018 – Ford Motor Company is issuing two safety recalls in North America. Details are as follows: Select 2014-18 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ ...

ODI #11597707
Electrical System
05/22/2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Expedition. The contact stated the vehicle was repaired under an unknown recall for a connector that was left hanging down. The contact stated the connectors that were left hanging occasionally sparked and caused a burning odor. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure an...

ODI #11590093
Electrical System,Unknown Or Other
05/06/2024

The dash air vent and rear vent motors are clicking when they are turned on. I have read numerous reports that this is an existing issue with 2016 Expeditions. Why are these vent motors not under recall?

ODI #11587332
Electrical System
05/06/2024

The blower motor harness melted for the second time. The blower motor was replaced with the recall part and it has melted again. This is causing the blower motor to cut off at any given moment. I must then reach under the dash and push the wires in order for the blower motor to work again. I have read that this is a known problem in expeditions. Why isn’t this part under recall? Does the blower mo...

ODI #11587331
Electrical System
04/12/2024

The rear actuator has gone out 4 years in a row and breaks within less than a year from getting repaired by ford dealers only. The rear camera is always blacking out too. This also has to be replaced each year and a half for the past 5 years.

ODI #11582583

Showing 20 of 181 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Ford Expedition El

Has the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL been recalled?

No, the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL has no recalls on record with NHTSA as of our latest data update.

How many complaints does the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL have?

The 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL has 181 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 7 involved crashes. 5 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.

What is the safety rating for the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL?

The 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 5/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.

What are the most common problems with the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL involve service brakes (28 complaints), power train (21 complaints), engine (15 complaints). Other affected components include service brakes, hydraulic, electrical system, unknown or other.

How many crash reports does the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL have?

There are 7 crash reports associated with the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL out of 181 total complaints (3.9% of complaints involved crashes).

How many fire reports does the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL have?

There are 7 fire reports for the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL out of 181 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.

Are there any deaths reported for the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL?

No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL.

How many injuries are reported for the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL?

5 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.

Should I buy a 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL is acceptable with caveats. It has 181 complaints, 0 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.

What components fail most on the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL?

The components with the most failures on the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL are: 1. SERVICE BRAKES (28 complaints), 2. POWER TRAIN (21 complaints), 3. ENGINE (15 complaints), 4. SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC (12 complaints), 5. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9 complaints). SERVICE BRAKES is the single most-reported problem area with 28 complaints.

What should I know before buying a 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL?

Consider the reliability score and known issues before purchasing. Ensure the vehicle has been serviced regularly and check for any ongoing problems. The 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL has 181 NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).

How reliable is the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL?

The 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 181 owner complaints, 0 recalls, and 14 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Service Brakes and Electrical System.

What are the known issues with the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL?

Known issues with the 2016 FORD EXPEDITION EL include: Service Brakes, Electrical System, Engine Knocking, Transmission Issues. These are based on patterns found across 181 NHTSA complaints.

What are the most common issues with the 2016 Ford Expedition EL?

The most common issues include service brake problems, electrical system malfunctions, engine knocking, and transmission issues.

Are there any safety concerns with the 2016 Ford Expedition EL?

Yes, there are safety concerns, particularly with service brake failures and electrical system issues that can affect visibility.

What should I look for during a test drive?

Check for smooth acceleration, proper brake response, and ensure the AC and blower fan are functioning correctly.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Consider the reliability score and known issues before purchasing. Ensure the vehicle has been serviced regularly and check for any ongoing problems.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Ford Expedition El

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Ford Expedition El. The data includes 181 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 7 reported crashes, 7 fire incidents, 5 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Ford Expedition El an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

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.

Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.

Analysis last updated: 2026-05-15