2016 Ford Explorer Limited
VIN: 1FM5K7F81GGA06232 | 2016 | Ford Motor Company | CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES (USA)
2016 Ford Explorer Limited — 3.5L 6 Cyl, FWD, Automatic. Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV].
D
43/100
Safety & Recall Score: Caution
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 15 open recalls (very high)
⚠ 2441 owner complaints (high)
✓ VIN fully verified
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
- Body: Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
- Plant: CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES (USA)
NHTSA Recalls
15 Open Recalls- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer...
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain Wheel Hub...
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year...
Owner Complaints
2441 filed with NHTSA- After multiple communications with the local Ford Dealership, the...
- The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact...
Fuel Economy
20 MPG Combined- City: 17 MPG
- Hwy: 24 MPG
- Combined: 20 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
1FM5K7F81GGA06232
Model Year
2016
Make
Ford
Model
Explorer
Trim
Limited
Series
Not available
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Doors
4
Seats
5-7
Seat Rows
2-3
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Engine
3.5L 6 Cyl
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Plant Location
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES (USA)
Country of Origin
UNITED STATES (USA)
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — Country
1 → United States
Position 2 — Manufacturer
F → Ford Motor Company
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
M → MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
5K7F8 → Explorer Limited
Position 9 — Check Digit
1 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
G → 2016
Position 11 — Plant Code
G → CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial
A06232 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
Ti-VCT
Engine Manufacturer
Ford
Cylinders
6 Cyl
Displacement
3.5 L
Displacement CC
3500.0
Displacement CI
213.58310433156
Engine Config
V-Shaped
Engine Cycles
Not available
Horsepower
290 hp
Torque
Not available
Valve Train
Not available
Fuel Injection
Not available
Cooling System
Not available
Engine Brake HP
Not available
Turbocharger
Yes (inferred)
Supercharger
Not available
Transmission Style
Not available
Transmission Speeds
Not available
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Electrification
Not available
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Type Secondary
Not available
Battery Type
Not available
EV Drive Unit
Not available
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Secondary Fuel
Not available
Combined MPG
20 MPG
Combined MPGe
Not available
City MPG
17 MPG
Hwy MPG
24 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$3,100
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$15,500
GHG Score
4/10
Smog Rating
Not available
CO₂ Emissions
447 g/mi
Barrels/Year
14.88
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Not available
ESC
Not available
Traction Control
Not available
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Not available
Lane Departure Warning
Not available
Lane Keep System
Not available
Blind Spot Monitoring
Not available
Blind Spot Intervention
Not available
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not available
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not available
Parking Assist
Not available
Dynamic Brake Support
Not available
Pedestrian AEB
Not available
Rear Auto Braking
Not available
Auto Reverse System
Not available
Daytime Running Lights
Not available
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not available
Keyless Ignition
Not available
Auto High Beams
Not available
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
1st and 2nd and 3rd Rows
Curtain Airbags
Unknown
Knee Airbags
Passenger Seat Only
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not available
Brake System
Hydraulic
Steering Location
Not available
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
Wheelbase
Not available
Ground Clearance
Not available
Vehicle Length
Not available
Vehicle Width
Not available
Vehicle Height
Not available
Curb Weight
Not available
Track Width Front
Not available
Track Width Rear
Not available
GVWR
Class 2E: 6,001 - 7,000 lb (2,722 - 3,175 kg)
Doors
4
Bed Length
Not available
Cab Type
Not available
Fuel Tank
Not available
0–60 mph
Not available
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 2E: 6,001 - 7,000 lb (2,722 - 3,175 kg)
Trailer Type
Not Applicable
Axles
Not available
Axle Config
Not available
Trailer Body
Not Applicable
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Wheels & Tires
Front Tire Type
Not available
Rear Tire Type
Not available
Front Wheel Size
Not available
Rear Wheel Size
Not available
Spare Tire Type
Not available
Spare Tire Size
Not available
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Wheel Material
Not available
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Manufacturer ID
976
Make ID
460
Model ID
1800
Plant Company
Chicago Assembly
Plant City
CHICAGO
Plant State
ILLINOIS
Plant Country
UNITED STATES (USA)
Plant ZIP
Not available
Dest. Market
Not available
Vehicle Descriptor
1FM5K7F8*GG
GVWR
Class 2E: 6,001 - 7,000 lb (2,722 - 3,175 kg)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
15
Recall Status
Active recalls found
Overall Risk Level
High Risk
ABS
Not available
ESC
Not available
Traction Control
Not available
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
📋
Get a Vehicle History ReportUnlock accident history, title status & odometer records with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to get it.
🔔
Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Ford dealer with this VIN to confirm all 15 recall(s) are resolved.
🔒
NICB Stolen Vehicle CheckFree check at nicb.org to confirm no theft, salvage, or total-loss history.
💰
Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 15 open recall(s) as leverage for a lower price.
📝
Review Title & Lien StatusEnsure no outstanding liens before transfer. Your state DMV can verify title.
Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$9,200–$13,200
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
5 Stars
Front Crash Rating
5 Stars
Side Crash Rating
5 Stars
Rollover Risk
4 Stars
Safety Recalls
SUSPENSION:REAR
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
Risk: A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, and inspect both rear toe link ball joints, replacing the rear...
WHEELS:HUB
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain Wheel Hub Bearing assemblies, part number HB5Z-1104-C, incorrectly listed as being for installation on the rear axles of 2011-2017 Ford Explorer 4X2 vehicles. These bearings assemblies were manufactured without a self retention feature,...
Risk: A loss of the wheel or wheel end can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify the distributors of the hubs specifying that they are to only be used on drive axles. It is believed that none...
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Explorer and F-150 vehicles equipped with a manual recline driver's seat. The seat back frame may have insufficient welds which may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle...
Risk: The seat back may not adequately restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat back frame, free of charge. The recall begin on August...
SEATS
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 F-150 and Explorer vehicles. Loose power seat adjuster pivot bolts may cause the front seat cushions to detach and not properly restrain the seat occupant in the event of a crash.
Risk: In the event of a crash, a seat occupant that is not properly restrained has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tightness of the power seat track upper pivot link bolt, either applying threadlocker or replacing...
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured on July 24, 2015. During vehicle production, the fuel tank attachment bolts may not have been properly tightened. As a...
Risk: If the fuel tank separates from the vehicle, a fuel leak may occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the fuel tank attachment bolts, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on October 19,...
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured November 25, 2013, to January 25, 2016, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured October 20, 2014, to January 28, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with...
Risk: Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine block heater, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and replace the electrical cord,...
PARKING BRAKE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 23, 2015, Lincoln MKT vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 21, 2015, and 2015-2016 Ford...
Risk: If the parking brake does not fully engage and the transmission is left in a gear other than 'Park' while on a slope, the...
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will test the operation of the parking brake system, and if necessary, replace the parking brake control assembly,...
STRUCTURE:BODY
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The retention pins could loosen and allow the roof rail covers to detach from the vehicle.
Risk: A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will install push-pins and replace any damaged rail clips and roof rail covers, as necessary, free of charge. The interim owner notification letter...
TSBs are manufacturer repair instructions issued to dealerships. They are not safety recalls. If you're experiencing an issue, ask your dealer if a TSB applies.
No bulletins found
No technical service bulletin records returned for this vehicle.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2016 Ford Explorer
$2,120/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$10,600
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$15,500
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$5,940
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Ford Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Ford dealer.
Find Ford Dealers →NICB VINCheck is a free federal database. Run a check to confirm this VIN has no theft, salvage, or insurance total-loss history.
Run Free NICB Check for 1FM5K7F81GGA06232 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
Select any state to see its current emissions testing requirements and lemon law protections.
Select a state above to view its requirements.
OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
Enter a code from your OBD-II scanner, pick from the dropdown, or tap a common code chip below.
Common:
Owner Complaints
After multiple communications with the local Ford Dealership, the...
After multiple communications with the local Ford Dealership, the recall on the vehicle has not been completed nor inspected. The Ford Dealership has repeatedly stated that they do...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the driver’s side B-pillar trim detached from the vehicle and was dangling by...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure). The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH on two occasions,...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The...
Hello. I purchased my car in 2018. 2-3 years...
Hello. I purchased my car in 2018. 2-3 years later, the power steering would randomly go out while driving - on the highway and city roads. This could...
25V347 and 24V031 I recieved a notice of the...
25V347 and 24V031 I recieved a notice of the first recall in February 2024. Over the Summer of 2024 and 2025 both the A-pillar and B-pillar trim has...
Truck turns off
Truck turns off
The contact called on behalf of his wife, who...
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....
Showing 8 of 2441 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Ford recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Current
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2016 FORD Explorer based on vehicle class and age. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
2016
$11,200
2017
$9,900
-12%
2018
$8,700
-22%
2019
$7,600
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$2,120/yr
26%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
18%
Fuel/Energy
$3,100/yr
38%
Depreciation
$1,188/yr
15%
Registration
$250/yr
3%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$8,158/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
6.8
/ 10
Rank #13 overall
42 issues / 100 vehicles
Ford Reliability
Ford reliability is mixed. Trucks and V8 Mustangs score well; some EcoBoost engines and electronics have higher complaint rates.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
10/06/2019
28/08/2017
28/06/2016
29/11/2017
28/09/2015
31/03/2016
24/07/2015
05/05/2021
Vehicles in a similar class and price range to the 2016 FORD Explorer:
Private Party
$8,100–$12,100
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$9,700–$14,500
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$9,900–$15,200
Full warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle has 15 open recall(s). Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm all recalls are resolved or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
33 PSI
See door jamb
Rear Tires
33 PSI
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Ford Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
3yr/36k
Powertrain
5yr/60k
Corrosion / Rust
5yr/unlimited
⚠ At 10 years old, factory warranty coverage has likely expired on this vehicle. A third-party extended warranty may be worth considering.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2016 FORD Explorer.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2016 FORD Explorer:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
Listings with 20+ high-quality daylight photos get 3x more inquiries than listings with poor photos.
🗂 Vehicle history report link
Proactively share a VIN Pro Plus or Carfax report link to build instant buyer confidence.
🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Fix open recalls first
This vehicle has 15 open recall(s). Resolving them before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
⚠ Known Issue — 2016 FORD Explorer
CO intrusion recall. MyFord Touch infotainment glitches common.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
🔔 NHTSA SaferCar Alerts
Official government recall notifications. Free, direct from NHTSA. Covers safety recalls, investigations, and bulletins.
Sign Up Free →🔌 Carfax Recall Alerts
Free recall tracking through Carfax. Notifies you about new recalls and tracks which ones have been repaired.
Check Free →
VIN 1FM5K7F81GGA06232:
15 open recall(s) currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $2,120/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN 1FM5K7F81GGA06232 decode to?
VIN 1FM5K7F81GGA06232 decodes to a 2016 FORD Explorer Limited, assembled in CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 2016 FORD Explorer have?
This 2016 FORD Explorer has 15 open recalls on record with NHTSA. Recalls are safety-related and should be resolved by a dealership at no charge to the owner.
Is it safe to buy a 2016 FORD Explorer with open recalls?
Open recalls don't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but they should be addressed promptly. Contact a FORD dealer with this VIN to confirm which recalls have been completed and schedule any outstanding repairs — they are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2016 FORD Explorer?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2016 FORD Explorer Limited is estimated at $9,200–$13,200. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2016 FORD Explorer get?
According to EPA data, the 2016 FORD Explorer gets approximately 20 MPG combined (17 city / 24 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $3,100.
❤ Support VinForFree
VinForFree offers a free VIN check with no signup required. If this report helped you, consider supporting the site.
Bitcoin (BTC) Address:
3JjL1STPyfyhiQk1E91Xss8FSa5brW8LG3
Ethereum (ETH) Address:
0x962Efcc84463D599beC4F5F0575D1ebF60c83745
Litecoin (LTC) Address:
MUZk3ZDrpM4KmQjAZsnd5t12bYKqfhNtx4
Cardano (ADA) Address:
addr1vy8zgurtrdxyq4lyz9wzgpguj3eraxl79shu2hgh9r2ux6cdgmjc5
Free VIN Check — No Signup Required
Decode any 17-character VIN instantly. Recalls, specs, fuel economy, crash ratings, and market value.
🔍 Search Another VIN