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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.

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Bulletins, newest first
SSM 475002018-09-24. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM); ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2015-2017 Explorer and Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines may exhibit a surge or hesitation condition at approximately 50-60 MPH in 6th gear under light to moderate loads. If there are no DTCs stored in the powertrain control module (PCM), do not attempt further repairs. Advise customers this is a normal characteristic of the vehicle and will not affect durability of the engine or transmission.
SSM 474892018-09-24. Service bulletin. STEERING. When connecting the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) to the DLC located on the driver side under the steering column at the GWM, make sure that the ignition is off before connecting the VCM. If the ignition is on or the engine is running during the connection, it can result in various warning lights being illuminated with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), no start, no crank conditions or the IPC inoperative. If a vehicle displays these issues, disconnect the equipment from the DLC and disconnect the vehicle battery. Wait 10 minutes and reinstall with the ignition off. Clear any DTCs present and retest.
SSM 474442018-09-24. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 not at the latest software level may exhibit Various Performance Related concerns such as Display Operation, Navigation, Voice Recognition, Phone Pairing, Applink, Travel Link, Slow System Response, etc. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If an update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update the APIM software. After Installation, complete pop-up appears, remove USB flash drive and install into IDS tool to update Ford database. Perform a complete ignition cycle by turning the key off for 5 minutes which is critical for a successful installation. If no updates are available or a blue or black screen is present after an update refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for diagnosis or SYNC 3 intermittent blank screen GSB for tips. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
TSB 18-22552018-09-24. Service bulletin. ENGINE. Some 2013-2018 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L/1.6L/2.0L EcoBoost, 2013-2018 Fusion vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.7L EcoBoost, 2013-2018 MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.0L EcoBoost, 2017-18 MKZ vehicles equipped with 3.0L EcoBoost, 2015-2018 MKC vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L EcoBoost, 2015-2018 Edge vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.7L EcoBoost, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.0L and 2.7L EcoBoost, 2016-2018 Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L EcoBoost, 2017-2018 Continental vehicles equipped with 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost and 2016-2018 Focus RS equipped with 2.3L EcoBoost may exhibit a dark black fluid leak from the right side transfer case intermediate shaft seal. Follow the Service Procedure to correct the condition.
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.
17G01-S12018-06-11. Service bulletin. SUSPENSION; SUSPENSION:REAR. Certain 2013-2016 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles - Rear Suspension Toe Link Replacement
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 470002018-06-11. Service bulletin. ENGINE; POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE). Some 2013-2018 Escape/Fusion/MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.5L or 1.5L/2.0L/3.0L Ecoboost engine, 2015-2018 MKC/Edge/Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L/2.7L EcoBoost engine, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.7L Ecoboost engine, 2017-2018 Continental vehicles equipped with 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost, and AWD may exhibit a fluid leak from the PTU intermediate shaft seal. Replacement of the intermediate shaft seal seal does not require removal of the PTU and does not require the use of the cover seal and bolt kit (CV6Z-7275-K) to perform the repair. Refer to the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 308-07.
17G01-S12018-05-29. Service bulletin. SUSPENSION. Certain 2013-2016 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles - Rear Suspension Toe Link Replacement
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 470002018-05-29. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2013-2018 Escape/Fusion/MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.5L or 1.5L/2.0L/3.0L Ecoboost engine, 2015-2018 MKC/Edge/Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L/2.7L EcoBoost engine, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.7L Ecoboost engine, 2017-2018 Continental vehicles equipped with 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost, and AWD may exhibit a fluid leak from the PTU intermediate shaft seal. Replacement of the intermediate shaft seal seal does not require removal of the PTU and does not require the use of the cover seal and bolt kit (CV6Z-7275-K) to perform the repair. Refer to the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 308-07.
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 472112018-05-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 version 2.2 software may exhibit a blank screen after attempting to exit Valet mode. SYNC software updates are now available under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available, refer to WSM Section 415-00 and update APIM software. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the 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 471952018-05-21. Service bulletin. TIRES:TREAD/BELT. Some 2015-2018 Explorer vehicles equipped with Hankook brand tires may exhibit tread wear that is not the result of vehicle alignment concerns. For customer satisfaction, Hankook is offering pro-rated tire replacement for vehicles with less than 36,000 Miles. This program is managed by Hankook Tire America Corp. and not claimed under Ford new vehicle limited warranty. If the tire side wall is marked as: 255/50R20 105H Ventus S1 Noble 2, contact Hankook Technical Service for possible pro-rated tire replacement. Refer to FMCDealer.com Tire Page for details and Hankook contact information.
SSM 471672018-05-21. Service bulletin. 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 471632018-05-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL. Some 2016-2018 Explorer vehicles equipped with automatic temperature control and premium AM/FM/CD may exhibit a broken or missing temperature control switch. The driver and passenger switches are now available separately from the control head. Replacement of the control head assembly is not necessary. The switches are driver and passenger specific and must be installed in the correct location with the red heat indicator facing up. HB5Z-19986-AA - Drivers Side Switch, HB5Z-19986-BA - Passengers Side Switch
SSM 471432018-05-21. Service bulletin. EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS. 2016-2018 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.