2016 Ford Explorer Gas Mileage – Real-World Ratings And Performance
The 2016 Ford Explorer offers a range of fuel efficiency figures depending on whether you have the 2.3L EcoBoost, the standard 3.5L V6, or the high-output 3.5L EcoBoost engine. While factory ratings suggest between 16 and 28 MPG, real-world results often vary based on driving habits, maintenance, and vehicle load.
Do you feel like you are visiting the gas station more often than you should? You are not alone, as many owners find that 2016 ford explorer gas mileage can fluctuate significantly based on how the vehicle is maintained and driven. Whether you are commuting to work or heading out for a weekend of camping, understanding the factors that influence your fuel consumption is the first step toward saving money at the pump.
In this guide, I will break down the official EPA ratings for every engine configuration and provide you with actionable, DIY-friendly steps to improve your efficiency. We will explore everything from simple sensor cleanings to the impact of off-road gear on your aerodynamics. By the end of this article, you will have a clear roadmap to maximizing every drop of fuel in your tank.
I have spent years under the hoods of Ford trucks and SUVs, and I know that these vehicles are sensitive to small maintenance lapses. We will look at the specific mechanical components and driving techniques that make the biggest difference for this specific model year. Let’s dive into the data and the “pro” tips that will help your Explorer run leaner and longer.
Understanding the 2016 Ford Explorer Gas Mileage by Engine Type
Ford offered three distinct engines for the 2016 model year, each designed for a different type of driver. The 2016 ford explorer gas mileage varies greatly between these powerplants, so it is vital to know which one is under your hood. The efficiency you get on the highway in a front-wheel-drive (FWD) model will look very different from a fully loaded 4WD Sport trim.
The 2.3L EcoBoost Four-Cylinder Engine
The 2.3L EcoBoost replaced the older 2.0L version for the 2016 refresh, offering a better balance of power and efficiency. In the FWD configuration, this engine is the fuel economy leader of the lineup. The EPA rated this setup at 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway.
If you have the 4WD version of the 2.3L, those numbers drop slightly to 18 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. This engine uses a turbocharger to provide V6-like power, but if you have a “heavy foot,” the turbo will stay engaged, and your fuel economy will plummet. To get the best results, you must learn to drive with a light touch on the accelerator.
The Standard 3.5L Ti-VCT V6
This is the most common engine found in the Base and XLT trims. It is a naturally aspirated workhorse that provides reliable performance. For FWD models, expect about 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. If you have the Intelligent 4WD system, those numbers shift to 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway.
While this engine is less efficient than the smaller EcoBoost, it is often preferred by DIYers because it is less complex. It does not rely on turbochargers, which means it is less sensitive to oil quality and heat soak issues that can sometimes affect the fuel trim in turbocharged engines during long summer hauls.
The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (Sport and Platinum Trims)
This engine is all about performance, featuring twin turbochargers and standard 4WD. It delivers impressive horsepower, but the trade-off is at the pump. The EPA ratings for this powerhouse are 16 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. In real-world mixed driving, many owners report averaging around 17 or 18 MPG.
This engine is a favorite for those who need to tow a boat or a small camper. However, when towing, your fuel consumption can drop into the single digits. If you own a Sport or Platinum trim, your focus for better mileage should be on maintaining the intercooler and ensuring your spark plugs are always in top condition.
Mechanical Factors That Influence 2016 Ford Explorer Gas Mileage
When we talk about 2016 ford explorer gas mileage, we cannot ignore the mechanical health of the vehicle. As these SUVs age, small components begin to wear out, causing the engine to work harder than necessary. Even a slight decrease in efficiency can add up to hundreds of dollars in extra fuel costs over a year.
The Role of Oxygen Sensors and Fuel Trim
Your Explorer uses oxygen sensors to monitor the exhaust gases and tell the computer how much fuel to spray into the cylinders. Over time, these sensors can become “lazy” or coated in carbon. They might not trigger a Check Engine Light (CEL) immediately, but they can cause the engine to run “rich,” which wastes fuel.
If your mileage has dropped suddenly, consider using an OBDII scanner to check your Short Term Fuel Trim (STFT). If the numbers are consistently high, your engine is adding extra fuel to compensate for a perceived lean condition. Replacing front oxygen sensors after 100,000 miles is often a smart preventative move for fuel economy.
Spark Plug Gap and Ignition Efficiency
The EcoBoost engines, in particular, are very hard on spark plugs. The high pressure inside the combustion chamber can actually “blow out” a weak spark. Furthermore, the gap between the electrodes can widen over time due to erosion. A wider gap requires more voltage to jump, which can lead to microscopic misfires.
For the 2016 Explorer, I recommend checking your spark plugs every 30,000 to 45,000 miles, especially on EcoBoost models. Use a quality gapping tool to ensure they meet factory specifications (usually around 0.030 inches for EcoBoost). Fresh plugs ensure a complete burn of the fuel, which directly translates to better MPG.
Mass Air Flow (MAF) and Map Sensors
The engine’s computer needs to know exactly how much air is entering the intake to calculate the correct fuel mixture. A dirty Mass Air Flow sensor will send inaccurate data, leading to poor combustion. This is a very common issue if you use “oiled” performance air filters, as the oil can coat the delicate sensor wires.
Cleaning the MAF sensor is a simple 10-minute DIY job. Use a dedicated MAF Sensor Cleaner spray—never use brake cleaner or carb cleaner, as these can destroy the sensor. Simply remove the sensor from the intake tube, spray it liberally, let it air dry completely, and reinstall it. This often restores lost throttle response and mileage.
Real-World Scenarios: Towing and Off-Road Gear
The 2016 Ford Explorer is a versatile vehicle, often used for more than just grocery getting. However, every modification or extra load you add has a “fuel tax.” If you are an off-roader or a weekend warrior, you need to be aware of how your gear affects your 2016 ford explorer gas mileage.
The Aerodynamic Cost of Roof Racks
Many Explorer owners install roof baskets or cargo boxes for camping trips. While convenient, these items create significant aerodynamic drag. At highway speeds, a large roof basket can reduce your fuel economy by as much as 2 to 5 MPG. The engine has to work significantly harder to push that extra “sail” through the air.
If you aren’t using your roof rack, take it off. It only takes a few minutes with a basic wrench set, and the fuel savings will pay for the effort in just a few tanks of gas. If you must keep it on, consider adding a wind fairing to the front of the rack to help deflect air more smoothly over the cargo.
Tire Choice and Rolling Resistance
Switching from standard all-season tires to aggressive All-Terrain (A/T) tires is a popular mod for the Explorer. However, those chunky tread blocks increase rolling resistance. The engine has to use more torque just to keep the wheels turning. Additionally, heavier tires increase “unsprung weight,” which hurts both acceleration and fuel economy.
If you want the off-road look without the massive fuel penalty, look for A/T tires with a “Low Rolling Resistance” rating. Also, always keep your tires inflated to the pressure listed on the driver’s side door jamb. Running just 5 PSI low can drop your 2016 ford explorer gas mileage by 1-2% and cause your tires to wear out prematurely.
The Impact of Towing a Trailer
The 2016 Explorer is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. When you are pulling a heavy trailer, your engine stays in a lower gear and operates at higher RPMs. This is where the 3.5L EcoBoost shines in terms of power, but it will consume fuel at an alarming rate—often dropping to 9 or 10 MPG.
To mitigate this, ensure your trailer bearings are well-greased and the trailer tires are properly inflated. Use Tow/Haul mode on your gear selector; while it might seem counterintuitive because it holds gears longer, it prevents the transmission from “hunting,” which can actually be more efficient and saves your transmission from overheating.
Step-by-Step DIY Guide to a Fuel Economy Tune-Up
If you want to restore your 2016 ford explorer gas mileage to its former glory, follow this simple maintenance checklist. Most of these tasks can be done in your driveway with basic hand tools. Always ensure the engine is cool before starting work, and wear safety glasses when working with pressurized systems or sprays.
- Inspect the Air Filter: Open the airbox and hold the filter up to a bright light. If you can’t see light through the pleats, replace it. A clogged filter starves the engine of air, forcing it to work harder.
- Clean the Throttle Body: Over time, carbon deposits (gunk) build up around the throttle plate. This disrupts airflow at idle and low speeds. Use a Throttle Body Cleaner and a soft cloth to wipe away the black residue.
- Check Tire Pressure: Use a high-quality digital gauge. Don’t rely on the TPMS light in the dash, as it often only triggers when a tire is significantly low. Aim for the exact PSI listed on your door placard.
- Use a Fuel System Cleaner: Pour a bottle of high-quality PEA-based fuel system cleaner into your tank before your next fill-up. This helps clean the tips of the fuel injectors, ensuring a fine mist for better combustion.
- Check for “Dragging” Brakes: Safely jack up each corner of the car (use jack stands!) and spin the wheel by hand. If a wheel feels difficult to turn, you may have a sticking brake caliper. This “parasitic drag” is a silent killer of fuel economy.
By performing these steps, you are ensuring that the engine is breathing easily, sparking efficiently, and moving the vehicle with as little resistance as possible. These small wins add up to a noticeable difference at the fuel pump.
Comparison of Tools for Monitoring Your Efficiency
To truly master your 2016 ford explorer gas mileage, you need data. The built-in trip computer is a good start, but it isn’t always 100% accurate. Professional mechanics and enthusiasts use additional tools to get a clearer picture of what is happening inside the engine.
- OBDII Bluetooth Adapters: Tools like the BlueDriver or OBDLink MX+ plug into your car’s diagnostic port and send real-time data to your phone. You can monitor “Instantaneous MPG” and “Engine Load” to see exactly which driving behaviors are wasting the most fuel.
- Fuel Tracking Apps: Apps like Fuelly or Drivvo allow you to input your odometer reading and gallons pumped at every fill-up. This gives you a “math-based” MPG figure that accounts for variations in gas pump shut-off points.
- FORScan Software: For the advanced DIYer, FORScan is a powerful tool specifically for Ford vehicles. It allows you to see deep-level data and even perform module resets after you replace sensors, ensuring the computer learns the new, efficient parameters immediately.
Using these tools takes the guesswork out of the equation. If you see your average MPG trending downward over three or four tanks of gas, you know it is time to check your air filter or scan for pending trouble codes.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2016 Ford Explorer Gas Mileage
What is the best gas to use for 2016 Ford Explorer gas mileage?
While the 2016 Explorer is designed to run on 87-octane regular unleaded, Ford notes that for the EcoBoost engines, premium fuel (91 octane or higher) is recommended for “best overall performance.” In hot weather or when towing, premium fuel helps prevent “knock,” allowing the computer to advance the timing for better efficiency and power.
Why is my mileage so much lower than the EPA estimate?
EPA estimates are conducted in highly controlled laboratory conditions. Real-world factors like excessive idling, aggressive acceleration, driving in hilly terrain, and using the air conditioning heavily will all lower your numbers. Additionally, winter-blend gasoline contains less energy per gallon, which often results in a 1-3 MPG drop during cold months.
Does the “Eco” mode actually save gas?
The 2016 Explorer does not have a dedicated “Eco” button like some newer vehicles, but it does have a SelectShift transmission. By manually shifting into higher gears sooner (upshifting) or keeping the vehicle in “D” rather than “S” (Sport), you can mimic an Eco mode. This keeps the engine RPMs low, which is the key to better fuel economy.
Can a bad thermostat affect my fuel economy?
Yes. If your thermostat is “stuck open,” the engine will take a long time to reach its operating temperature. The computer will stay in “Open Loop” mode longer, which dumps extra fuel into the engine to help it warm up. If your temperature gauge stays near the cold mark for a long time, replace the thermostat immediately.
Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Fuel Costs
Maximizing your 2016 ford explorer gas mileage is a combination of smart maintenance and disciplined driving. While the Explorer is a large, capable SUV, it doesn’t have to be a “gas hog.” By keeping your sensors clean, your tires aired up, and your cargo streamlined, you can achieve numbers that rival much smaller vehicles.
Remember that your Ford is a complex machine that rewards proactive care. If you notice a dip in performance or mileage, don’t wait for a warning light to appear. Check the basics first—air filters, spark plugs, and tire pressure. These simple DIY tasks are the most effective ways to keep your wallet full and your Explorer on the road for years to come.
Stay safe, keep your tools handy, and enjoy the journey! With a little bit of attention to detail, you can turn your 2016 Explorer into a highly efficient road-trip machine. Happy wrenching!
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