2016 Ford Explorer Starter Relay Location – Pinpointing The Power
Finding the starter relay for your 2016 Ford Explorer can be a crucial step in diagnosing starting issues. This small but vital component controls the flow of power to your starter motor, and knowing its exact location can save you time and diagnostic headaches. We’ll guide you through pinpointing this component to help you get your Explorer back on the road.
The starter relay is a critical electrical switch that enables your engine to turn over. For a 2016 Ford Explorer, this relay is typically housed within one of the vehicle’s main fuse boxes, accessible from either the engine compartment or inside the cabin. Pinpointing its precise spot requires a bit of investigation, often involving consulting your owner’s manual or understanding common Ford fuse box layouts.
Introduction
Is your 2016 Ford Explorer refusing to crank, leaving you stranded when you need it most? Before you jump to conclusions about a dead battery or a faulty starter motor, there’s a small but incredibly important component that deserves your attention: the starter relay. This unassuming part acts as a gatekeeper for the electrical current that engages your starter motor.
Many DIYers and even some seasoned mechanics can get stumped when a vehicle won’t start. Often, the culprit isn’t the most complex part, but a simple switch that’s gone awry. Understanding the 2016 Ford Explorer starter relay location is your first step toward a straightforward diagnosis and, potentially, a quick fix. This article will demystify where to find this crucial relay, what it does, and how to confirm if it’s the source of your starting woes.
Understanding the Starter Relay’s Role
The starter relay is an electromagnetic switch. When you turn the ignition key or press the start button, a low-current signal is sent from the ignition switch to the starter relay. This signal energizes a coil within the relay, which in turn closes a set of contacts, allowing a high-current path from the battery to the starter motor. Without a functioning starter relay, that high-current surge never reaches the starter, and your engine won’t turn over.
Pinpointing the 2016 Ford Explorer Starter Relay Location
For your 2016 Ford Explorer, the starter relay isn’t a standalone component easily visible under the hood. Instead, it’s integrated into one of the vehicle’s fuse boxes. Ford typically uses two primary fuse box locations for critical components like the starter relay.
Engine Compartment Fuse Box: The Most Likely Suspect
The most common location for the starter relay on a 2016 Ford Explorer is within the main fuse box situated in the engine compartment. This box is usually found on the driver’s side or passenger’s side of the engine bay, often near the battery.
- Locating the Fuse Box: Open your hood and look for a black plastic box with a lid. It’s often rectangular or square and secured with clips or small bolts.
- Accessing the Relay: Once you’ve located the fuse box, you’ll need to unclip or unbolt the lid to expose the fuses and relays inside. Be gentle, as these plastic clips can become brittle over time.
- Identifying the Starter Relay: This is where things can get a bit tricky without a diagram. The lid of the fuse box usually has a diagram printed on the inside, showing the layout of fuses and relays. Look for a symbol that represents a relay, often a rectangle with a coil and switch inside, and cross-reference it with the starter relay designation. On many Ford vehicles, the starter relay is a larger, often black or gray, cube-shaped component.
Interior Fuse Box: A Secondary Possibility
While less common for the starter relay itself, some vehicles may have secondary fuse boxes inside the cabin. These are typically located:
- Under the Dashboard: On the driver’s or passenger’s side, often behind a small access panel or kick panel.
- In the Center Console: Less frequent, but possible in some configurations.
If you’ve thoroughly searched the engine compartment fuse box and can’t find a relay that matches the starter relay’s description or function, consult your owner’s manual for the interior fuse box locations.
Decoding Your Owner’s Manual and Fuse Box Diagrams
Your 2016 Ford Explorer owner’s manual is your best friend for this task. It will contain detailed diagrams of all fuse boxes and a clear legend identifying each fuse and relay by its function and position.
- Owner’s Manual: Flip to the section on fuses and relays. It will likely have clear illustrations of the fuse box layouts.
- Fuse Box Lid: As mentioned, the diagram on the inside of the fuse box lid is invaluable. Take a moment to study it carefully.
- Relay Identification: Look for labels like “Starter Relay,” “Ignition Relay,” or a specific part number that corresponds to the starter relay. The physical appearance of the relay (size, color, number of pins) can also be a clue.
Symptoms of a Failing Starter Relay
If your Explorer is exhibiting any of these symptoms, a faulty starter relay could be the cause:
- No Crank, No Start: The most common symptom. You turn the key, and nothing happens – no clicking, no engine turning over.
- Intermittent Starting Problems: The vehicle sometimes starts fine, but other times it refuses to crank. This often points to a relay that’s on its way out.
- Clicking Sound: You might hear a single click from the engine bay when you try to start the car, but the engine doesn’t crank. This can indicate the relay is trying to engage but failing to send enough power.
- Engine Cranks But Won’t Start: While less common for a relay issue, sometimes a partially failing relay can cause the starter to engage weakly.
Testing the Starter Relay
Before you replace the starter relay, it’s wise to test it. This will confirm if it’s indeed the faulty component.
Visual Inspection
First, remove the relay from its socket. Visually inspect it for any signs of damage, such as burnt contacts, cracked plastic housing, or corrosion.
Using a Multimeter (For the DIY-Savvy)
A multimeter is essential for accurately testing a relay. You’ll need to understand the relay’s pin configuration (usually printed on the relay itself or in your manual).
- Test the Coil: Identify the two pins for the relay’s coil. Connect your multimeter (set to ohms) to these pins. You should get a resistance reading, typically between 50 and 150 ohms. If you get an open circuit (OL) or a very low reading, the coil is likely bad.
- Test the Contacts: Identify the pins for the relay’s switch contacts (usually larger pins). With the coil de-energized, these contacts should be open (infinite resistance). Then, apply a 12V power source to the coil terminals (carefully, using jumper wires) to energize the relay. The contacts should now close, showing continuity (very low resistance) between them.
The “Jiggle” Test
Sometimes, a failing relay can be coaxed into working temporarily. With the ignition on (but not attempting to start), gently wiggle the starter relay in its socket. If the car then starts, you’ve found your culprit. This indicates a poor connection within the relay or its socket.
Replacing the Starter Relay
If you’ve confirmed the starter relay is faulty, replacement is usually a straightforward process.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- New Starter Relay: Ensure you have the correct part number for your 2016 Ford Explorer.
- Flathead Screwdriver or Pry Tool: For carefully removing the fuse box lid and potentially the relay itself if it’s stuck.
- Owner’s Manual: For reference.
- Safety Glasses: Always protect your eyes.
- Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
Step-by-Step Replacement:
- Safety First: Ensure the ignition is OFF and the parking brake is engaged. It’s also a good practice to disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent any accidental shorts.
- Access the Fuse Box: Open the hood and locate the engine compartment fuse box. Remove the lid by releasing the clips or removing any fasteners.
- Identify and Remove the Old Relay: Using the diagram on the fuse box lid or in your owner’s manual, locate the starter relay. Gently pull it straight up and out of its socket. If it’s stuck, you might need to use a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool to carefully lever it out. Avoid excessive force, which could damage the fuse box.
- Install the New Relay: Take your new starter relay and align it with the socket. Press it firmly into place until it’s fully seated.
- Reassemble: Replace the fuse box lid and secure it. If you disconnected the battery, reconnect the negative terminal.
- Test: Get into your Explorer, turn the key, and see if it starts.
What If It’s Not the Relay?
If replacing the starter relay doesn’t solve your starting issue, don’t despair. Several other components could be at play:
- Battery: A weak or dead battery is the most common reason for a no-crank situation. Check your battery voltage and terminal connections.
- Starter Motor: The starter motor itself could be worn out or have a faulty solenoid.
- Ignition Switch: The switch you turn with your key might not be sending the correct signal to the relay.
- Wiring and Connections: Damaged or corroded wires leading to or from the starter relay or starter motor can prevent proper operation.
- Neutral Safety Switch (Automatic Transmission): This switch prevents the engine from starting unless the transmission is in Park or Neutral.
Troubleshooting Tips for Off-Roading and Extended Trips
When you’re out on the trail or on a long road trip, a no-start situation can be particularly problematic. Knowing the 2016 Ford Explorer starter relay location and how to test it can be a lifesaver.
- Carry a Spare: For extended off-road excursions, consider carrying a spare starter relay. They are inexpensive and small, making them easy to pack.
- Owner’s Manual is Key: Always keep your owner’s manual in your vehicle, especially on longer trips. It’s your most reliable source for diagrams and specifications.
- Basic Tools: Ensure you have a basic toolkit that includes a multimeter, screwdrivers, and pliers for on-the-go diagnostics.
- Know Your Limits: If you’re not comfortable performing electrical diagnostics, it’s always best to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or roadside assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Ford Explorer Starter Relay Location
Where is the starter relay located in a 2016 Ford Explorer?
The starter relay for a 2016 Ford Explorer is typically found inside the main fuse box located in the engine compartment. A diagram on the inside of the fuse box lid will help you pinpoint its exact position.
How do I know if my starter relay is bad?
Common symptoms include a no-crank situation (no engine turnover when you turn the key), intermittent starting issues, or a single clicking sound from the engine bay without the engine cranking. Testing with a multimeter can confirm a faulty relay.
Can I bypass the starter relay?
While it’s technically possible to bypass a starter relay in an emergency using jumper wires, it’s a risky procedure that can damage your vehicle’s electrical system if not done correctly. It’s highly recommended to replace the faulty relay instead.
What tools do I need to replace the starter relay?
You’ll need a new starter relay (ensure it’s the correct part number), a flathead screwdriver or pry tool for the fuse box lid and relay, and potentially a multimeter if you want to test the old relay before replacement.
How often should I replace my starter relay?
Starter relays are generally durable components and don’t have a fixed replacement interval. They are typically replaced only when they fail or show signs of malfunction.
Conclusion
Locating and understanding the starter relay is a fundamental skill for any 2016 Ford Explorer owner looking to tackle basic diagnostics. By knowing its placement within the engine compartment fuse box and understanding its function, you can save yourself time and money when troubleshooting starting problems. Remember to always prioritize safety, consult your owner’s manual, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure.
Stay safe and keep your Explorer running smoothly!
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