WenmarOpen by Wenmar Pro

Service bulletins for the 2016 Ford Explorer

A bulletin is a manufacturer's communication to its dealers, as NHTSA indexes it. The summary is NHTSA's. The document is the manufacturer's: read it at NHTSA. A bulletin is not a recall, and listing a model year does not mean every vehicle of it is concerned.

212 on file from NHTSA, as of 2026-10-19.

By type

By component

By trouble code

By topic

Only bulletins with component: Equipment and accessories are shown. Show all

Bulletins, newest first
TSB 19-20022019-04-01. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; EQUIPMENT. Some 2011-2019 Explorer and 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit a detached center console rear cup holder and/or the cover panel detached from the rear cup holder. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
SSM 477492019-03-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2012-2019 Vehicles may require repairs to the Smartlink system. Smartlink is a Ford Licensed Accessory which has a warranty provided by the accessory manufacturer. Warranty replacement parts for Smartlink that are ordered through Ford are not reimbursable through the Ford Motor Company warranty system. Please see the Warranty and Policy Manual for further information on Ford Licensed Accessories.
TSB 18-23612019-03-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; SEATS. 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.
SSM 475292018-12-03. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. 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. Reconnecting C134 due to improper reassembly by an outside supplier is not a warrantable repair.
SSM 475702018-11-19. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER. 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. For claiming, use causal part 19980 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
TSB 18-22392018-09-24. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; 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.
SSM 474082018-09-10. Service bulletin. SEATS; EQUIPMENT; LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES. 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 to improve latch alignment before replacing any parts. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 501-10C for torque specifications.
SSM 473932018-07-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL 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 Vehicle Concern link at the bottom of the OASIS report to complete the form.
SSM 473792018-07-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. 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 turn the key back on before testing the touch screen. If the software is at a later version than 2.2, proceed with normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 473502018-07-23. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; 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 fobs. If the RKE fobs fail to program, verify that the fobs are the correct part number. If the fobs are correct for the vehicle, then refer to the inoperative key fob diagnostics outlined in WSM, Section 501-14. This procedure and part numbers do not apply to 2015 and previous model year Police Utility vehicles. Blue lift gate button fobs are part No. GB5Z-15K601-C and red panic button fobs are part No. GB5Z-15K601-A.
SSM 473482018-07-23. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; ENGINE. 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.
SSM 470412018-06-11. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; ELECTRICAL 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 turn the key back on before testing the touch screen. If the software is at a later version than 2.2, proceed with normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 470092018-06-11. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; EQUIPMENT. 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. Access to this site is granted through Dealer Program Enrollment System (DPES) and Dealer Principal, General Manager or Parts and Service Director can authorize users. Once authorized the retrieval process for master code can be obtained. The master code for the Accessory Keyless Entry Keypad cannot be retrieved from the body control module(BCM) with a diagnostic tool.
SSM 470412018-05-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. 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 turn the key back on before testing the touch screen. If the software is at a later version than 2.2, proceed with normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 470092018-05-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. 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. Access to this site is granted through Dealer Program Enrollment System (DPES) and Dealer Principal, General Manager or Parts and Service Director can authorize users. Once authorized the retrieval process for master code can be obtained. The master code for the Accessory Keyless Entry Keypad cannot be retrieved from the body control module(BCM) with a diagnostic tool.
SSM 472302018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ENGINE AND 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 idler bearing repair kit is available to repair the PTU. Refer to the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 308-07. If the PTU is determined to be repairable, utilize kit GB5Z-7P258-A and the included instruction sheet. For claiming use causal part 7P258 and applicable labor operations in section 07 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 472012018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. 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. If you suspect a system has been modified, the following resources can be used to verify original equipment: Monroney Label (Window Sticker), Professional Technician Society (PTS) OASIS tab select SYNC or HVBOM. For Genuine Ford accessories use: PTS Workshop Tab select Dealer Installed Accessory or Accessory Installation.
SSM 470802018-05-14. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.. 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.
17N042018-01-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; STRUCTURE. Certain 2014-2015 Explorer and 2014-2016 Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles - Front Door Trim Panel Repair
17-22222018-01-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; STRUCTURE. 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.
SSM 467042017-08-25. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. 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.
SSM 465222017-08-01. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; EQUIPMENT. 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.
SSM 464652017-08-01. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; 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 10 of the service labor time standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 464652017-05-22. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. 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 10 OF THE SERVICE LABOR TIME STANDARDS (SLTS) MANUAL.
SSM 461942017-03-20. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. 2016-2017 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 OASIS OR REFERRING TO WORKSHOP MANUAL SECTION 100-01.

The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.