2016 Ford Explorer Sport AWD – Performance Maintenance And Common
The 2016 Ford Explorer Sport AWD is a high-performance SUV that balances family utility with a twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost engine. To keep this 365-horsepower machine reliable, owners must focus on proactive PTU fluid changes and cooling system health. This guide provides the technical insights and DIY steps needed to maintain its sophisticated drivetrain and off-road capabilities.
Owning a 2016 ford explorer sport awd puts you in a unique category of drivers who want both speed and versatility. You likely appreciate the “sleeper” nature of the Sport trim, which offers performance that rivals many luxury SUVs.
However, maintaining a high-output vehicle with a complex all-wheel-drive system requires more than just basic oil changes. If you want to avoid expensive shop bills, you need to understand the specific quirks of this platform.
In this guide, we will break down the essential maintenance tasks, identify common failure points, and offer performance tips to ensure your Explorer remains a reliable companion on and off the pavement.
Understanding the 2016 ford explorer sport awd Powertrain
The heart of this vehicle is the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, paired with the 6F55 six-speed automatic transmission. Unlike the base models, the Sport trim was designed to handle significantly more torque and power.
The “Intelligent 4WD” system in the 2016 ford explorer sport awd uses a Power Take-Off Unit (PTU) to send power to the rear wheels. This system monitors wheel speed and throttle position hundreds of times per second.
While the system is incredibly capable in rain and snow, the hardware is packed into a tight engine bay. This leads to heat soak, which can degrade fluids faster than the owner’s manual might suggest.
The Role of the Terrain Management System
Inside the cabin, you have a rotary dial that adjusts the AWD behavior. Each setting—Normal, Mud/Ruts, Sand, and Grass/Gravel/Snow—changes how the center coupling distributes power.
In “Sand” mode, the system stays in lower gears longer and allows more wheel spin. In “Snow” mode, it starts in second gear and dulls throttle response to prevent loss of traction.
Understanding these modes is vital for off-roaders. Using the wrong mode on a specific surface can put unnecessary strain on the clutch packs within the rear drive unit.
The PTU Problem: Why Fluid Changes are Non-Negotiable
The most discussed issue among 2016 ford explorer sport awd enthusiasts is the Power Take-Off Unit. Ford originally marketed the PTU fluid as “filled for life,” but real-world experience proves otherwise.
The PTU sits very close to the turbochargers and exhaust downpipes. This extreme heat causes the 75W-140 gear oil to break down into a thick, black sludge that resembles molasses.
Once the fluid degrades, the internal gears and bearings lose lubrication. This eventually leads to a catastrophic mechanical failure, often signaled by a “burning oil” smell or a high-pitched whine from the front end.
How to Service the PTU Yourself
Most 2016 models do not have a drain plug on the PTU. To change the fluid, you must use a fluid extractor to suck the old oil out through the fill plug.
- Drive the car for 15 minutes to warm up the gear oil.
- Locate the fill plug on the passenger side of the PTU.
- Insert a flexible extraction tube and remove as much fluid as possible (usually about 12-18 ounces).
- Refill with a high-quality full synthetic 75W-140 gear oil until it starts to weep from the fill hole.
Experienced mechanics recommend performing this service every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. If you plan on towing or heavy off-roading, shorten that interval to stay safe.
Maximizing the 3.5L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost Performance
The EcoBoost engine in your 2016 ford explorer sport awd is a masterpiece of engineering, but it is sensitive to maintenance gaps. Direct injection engines are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves.
Because fuel does not wash over the intake valves, oil vapors from the PCV system can bake onto the metal. This eventually restricts airflow and causes rough idling or loss of power.
Installing a high-quality oil catch can is a proactive way to mitigate this. It traps the oil vapors before they reach the intake manifold, keeping your engine breathing clearly.
Spark Plug Gapping and Ignition
Turbocharged engines are hard on spark plugs. In the 2016 ford explorer sport awd, even a slightly wide gap can lead to spark blowout under heavy acceleration.
Check your plugs every 30,000 miles. For stock engines, a gap of 0.030 inches is usually ideal. If you have an aftermarket performance tune, you may need to drop the gap to 0.028 inches.
Always use iridium plugs and ensure the boots are clean. A small amount of dielectric grease on the ceramic portion of the plug will prevent future seizing.
Suspension and Braking: Stopping 5,000 Pounds Safely
The Sport trim comes with a firmer suspension and larger brakes than the XLT or Limited trims. However, the 2016 ford explorer sport awd is still a heavy vehicle, weighing nearly 5,000 pounds.
If you feel a vibration in the steering wheel when braking at highway speeds, your brake rotors are likely warped. This is a common complaint due to the heat generated during hard stops.
When it is time for a brake job, consider upgrading to slotted rotors and heavy-duty ceramic pads. These components dissipate heat better and provide a more consistent pedal feel.
Checking Your Suspension Bushings
Listen for “clunking” sounds when going over speed bumps. The front lower control arm bushings and sway bar links are known wear items on this generation of Explorer.
If the rubber bushings look cracked or “smeared,” they need replacement. Keeping the suspension tight is crucial for maintaining the handling precision that the Sport model is known for.
For those who take their Sport off-road, inspect the CV boots regularly. A torn boot will let dirt into the joint, leading to a clicking sound and eventual axle failure.
Off-Road and Utility: Using the Terrain Management System
While the 2016 ford explorer sport awd isn’t a rock crawler like a Jeep Wrangler, it is surprisingly capable on forest service roads and beach sand. The key is knowing the system’s limits.
The Sport trim features 20-inch wheels with low-profile tires. These are great for cornering on pavement but offer very little sidewall cushion for rocky trails.
If you plan on frequent off-roading, consider switching to an 18-inch wheel with a taller sidewall tire. This allows you to “air down” for better traction in soft sand.
Managing Ground Clearance
The lowest point on the 2016 Explorer is often the front air dam. This plastic piece improves fuel economy but can easily be ripped off by a high stump or rock.
Always scout your path before driving over obstacles. If you hear the skid plate scraping, stop immediately and reassess your line. The oil pan is vulnerable if you aren’t careful.
Remember that the AWD system is front-biased. If you lose traction, the system will send power to the rear, but there is a slight engagement delay. Slow and steady wins the race in off-road scenarios.
The Internal Water Pump: What You Need to Know
One “hidden” detail of the 3.5L EcoBoost is the internal water pump. Unlike most cars where the pump is on the outside, this one is driven by the timing chain inside the engine.
If the water pump seal fails, it can leak coolant directly into the engine oil. This creates a “milkshake” consistency that will destroy your engine bearings in minutes.
Check your oil dipstick weekly. If the oil looks milky or if your coolant level is dropping without a visible external leak, stop driving immediately. This is a job for a professional, as it requires a partial engine teardown.
Replacing the water pump as a preventative measure around 120,000 miles is a smart move for long-term owners. It is expensive, but significantly cheaper than a new engine.
Essential Tools for the DIY Explorer Owner
To maintain your 2016 ford explorer sport awd effectively, you need a few specific tools beyond a basic socket set. Investing in these will save you thousands in labor costs.
- OBDII Scanner: A tool like Forscan allows you to read Ford-specific codes and monitor live data from the PTU and turbos.
- Torque Wrench: Essential for wheel lugs (100 lb-ft) and spark plugs to ensure everything is seated correctly.
- Fluid Suction Pump: This is the only way to effectively change the PTU and differential fluids.
- Trim Removal Tools: Useful for accessing interior panels or removing the plastic clips on the underbody shields.
Having a digital multimeter is also helpful for troubleshooting the various sensors that manage the AWD system. Electrical gremlins are rare but much easier to solve with the right data.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 ford explorer sport awd
Is the 2016 ford explorer sport awd good in snow?
Yes, it is excellent. The Grass/Gravel/Snow mode optimizes the traction control and AWD bias to prevent sliding. When paired with dedicated winter tires, it is one of the most confident SUVs in winter conditions.
What is the towing capacity of the Sport trim?
The 2016 Sport is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the Class III towing package. Always use a weight-distribution hitch for trailers over 2,000 pounds to maintain steering control.
How can I tell if my PTU is failing?
Look for a “PTU Over Temperature” warning on the dash, or smell for burning gear oil after a long drive. A metallic grinding noise or a puddle of thick oil under the center of the car are also major red flags.
Does the 2016 Explorer Sport require premium fuel?
While it can run on 87 octane, Ford recommends 91 octane or higher for maximum performance and fuel economy. Using premium fuel reduces the risk of engine knock under boost, especially in hot weather.
Are there any common recalls for this model?
There have been recalls regarding the rear suspension toe links and the front door latches. You can check your VIN on the NHTSA website to see if your specific vehicle has any outstanding safety repairs.
Final Thoughts for the Savvy Owner
The 2016 ford explorer sport awd is a powerhouse that rewards owners who pay attention to the details. By ignoring the “lifetime fluid” claims and staying on top of the PTU and cooling system, you can enjoy this SUV for many years.
Whether you are carving mountain roads or taking the family on a camping trip, this vehicle offers a driving experience that few other SUVs in its price range can match. Stay proactive with your maintenance, listen to what the car is telling you, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.
Keep your fluids fresh, your spark plugs gapped, and your tires rotated. Stay safe on the road and enjoy the boost!
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